Blackguards 2 takes place a few years after the first game, Blackguards, which returns with several Blackguards that players are used to like Dwarf Naurim. However, the game's characters have had a few problems along the way, which has completely changed the story. Cassia returns in Blackguards 2 and hopes to rule the Shark throne with the help of Dwarf Naurim, Wizard Zurbaran and Takate. Players will venture across South Aventuria to complete quests and help Cassia achieve her objective.
Blackguards 2 follows the Dark Eye rulebook with gameplay more focused on turn-based battles with the option of completing side-quests to develop their characters. The upcoming release will make many improvements over its predecessor that includes new weapons, armor, battle resources and more! However, the changes don't stop there, and fans can also look forward to revamped gameplay mechanics that will change your character's line of sight, cover and formation.
Blackguards 2 begins with a dramatic introduction for Cassia of Tenos--that foreshadows the perilous journey ahead--as we find ourselves locked within a segment of the catacombs. Gamers are tasked with speaking to the guard to gain some insight to why they are locked up and how they might escape. Cassia pleads for her innocence and can even resort to trying to make deals with the guard but nothing works. The guard informs you that the gladiators stand no chance against the Louse Queen and should just keep your mouth shut. Cassia knows she must face her fears and try to escape her prison with many fierce battles lying ahead.
In Blackguards 2, every battle is divided into combat rounds, with each unit moving into a small radius to execute the second action. However, if the unit moves out of the small radius and into a larger one, then that second action becomes forfeited. Every combat round will only end once all of the units have completed all of their actions in full. If for any reason, a friendly unit's vitality drops to zero, then the battle is lost. The player then has the option to retry that specific battle or restart from one of their previous save points. Gamers can right-click to open up the Ring Menu which shows the various actions they can perform such as spells and items with the option of adding shortcuts to the hotkey bar.
Blackguards 2 features responsive controls with players being able to perform most of the actions in the game by using the WASD keys to move across the battlefield alongside the V key to highlight interactive objects throughout their environments. Gamers can also change the camera angle by using the mouse wheel and commanding their unit to wait by pressing the space bar.
Cassia will have to battle against creepy Corapia spiders and much more throughout her adventures while gathering loot, adventure points and gold. Players can talk to people, buy or sell items and learn new abilities from the town screens throughout Blackguards 2. Players will advance the story by chatting with people in town and through the decisions they make. The amount of goods that gamers can buy in Blackguards 2 depends on the town and merchant which offers up a wide-variety of items for use throughout your adventures.
Blackguards 2 has definitely proven to be another great release in the series with its beautiful visuals, immersive soundtrack and intriguing gameplay. In our time with Blackguards 2 over the preview & review period, we have found that the game is quite enjoyable, and will please fans who have eagerly been awaiting its release. To learn more, visit the official Blackguards 2 website.
Game Features:
- Single Player
- Turn Based RPG
- New Weapons, Armor, and Stamina
- Achievement Support
Game Information:
Developer/Publisher: Daedalic Entertainment
Available for PC (reviewed)
Release Date: January 20, 2015