A Legionary's Life
- September 25, 2019
- Alessandro Roberti
- 10h median play time
Get on Steam"A Legionary's Life" is a realistic, challenging simulation of a Roman legionary's life. Players experience rigorous training, brutal battles, and historical events while navigating the political landscape of the Roman Empire. With a focus on authenticity, the game offers a unique and immersive look into the life of a soldier in ancient Rome.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- Engaging and immersive storytelling that captures the life of a Roman legionary.
- High replayability due to the character progression system that allows players to enhance their next character based on previous runs.
- Unique combat mechanics that require strategic thinking and management of stance and stamina.
- Heavy reliance on RNG can lead to frustrating experiences, with players often missing high-percentage attacks.
- Repetitive gameplay as players must replay the same campaign multiple times to progress.
- Combat can feel tedious and drawn out, especially in battles with multiple opponents.
- story343 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 59 % neutral mentions
- 3 % negative mentions
The game's story is widely praised for its engaging and well-written narrative, immersing players in the life of a Roman legionary during historical conflicts. While the linearity of the plot and reliance on RNG can lead to repetitive experiences, many players appreciate the depth of character development and the impact of choices on the storyline. Overall, the storytelling is considered the standout feature, with a strong desire for more content and branching paths to enhance replayability.
“The game has a great story, visuals, and characters; it's a shame that it will take you maybe 50-100 hours to actually see it all.”
“One of the best games out here, simple mechanics, gameplay but outstanding and gorgeous story and writing; when I play the game, I feel so immersed in it.”
“The story is well written, and I enjoy climbing up military ranks.”
“The game play experience just ruins the story and I refunded after losing 4 characters in an hour.”
“The roman empire lasted 1000 years, millions of common soldiers from all the far-reaching places, but you got only 1 story, that is exactly the same each time.”
“The story is very linear; there are some alternative paths and random events, however once you have played through a few times you probably have seen everything.”
- gameplay300 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 68 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The gameplay of "A Legionary's Life" is characterized by a blend of turn-based combat, RPG mechanics, and a heavy reliance on RNG, which can lead to both rewarding and frustrating experiences. Players appreciate the depth of the mechanics and the immersive narrative, but many express dissatisfaction with the repetitiveness and the punishing nature of the combat system, particularly the stance and turn mechanics. Overall, while the game offers a unique and engaging experience, it requires patience to master its complexities and may not appeal to those who dislike RNG-heavy gameplay.
“One of the best games out here, simple mechanics, gameplay but outstanding and gorgeous story and writing; when I play the game, I feel so immersed in it.”
“The mechanics are sound, and if you follow them knowing your character's strengths and weaknesses, you can pull out some tremendous and meaningful victories.”
“The gameplay loop is quite simple yet effective; you have two phases that I like to call 'break mode' and 'story mode'.”
“The loop of 'attack, recover stance, attack' is on paper the most efficient enemy (and player) behavior but makes for grueling gameplay.”
“But the absolutely atrocious RNG-based combat system, and forced roguelike mechanics for a linear campaign, really just make this game an exercise in frustration gameplay-wise.”
“The gameplay is somewhat weak and like that of many turn-based RPGs, but the computer AI is never that intelligent.”
- replayability164 mentions
- 49 % positive mentions
- 49 % neutral mentions
- 2 % negative mentions
Overall, the game exhibits high replayability, with many players praising its addictive nature, diverse choices, and the ability to explore different character builds and outcomes. While some reviews note limitations due to a linear story and repetitive elements, the inclusion of achievements, random events, and a roguelike structure contribute to a compelling experience that encourages multiple playthroughs. Many users find the game well worth its price, highlighting its engaging mechanics and historical context as key factors in its replay value.
“Surprisingly fun, informative about the historical events it depicts, and has some replayability.”
“The game has a great amount of replayability.”
“Great game with a great replay value!”
“The replayability is somewhat hampered by the linear story.”
“There isn't a ton of replayability after your first few playthroughs, but for less than $10 that's plenty.”
“The game is obviously still in early access so content-wise it is a bit short, but I've found it has quite a lot of replayability in trying to get achievements and putting yourself in more difficult situations in subsequent playthroughs.”
- graphics93 mentions
- 31 % positive mentions
- 60 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are generally described as minimalistic and retro, reminiscent of early '90s and '80s titles, which may appeal to fans of old-school aesthetics. While many reviewers note that the visuals are basic and not the game's strong point, they emphasize that the gameplay and storytelling compensate for the lack of graphical sophistication. Overall, the graphics serve their purpose in a text-based format, allowing players to immerse themselves in the narrative rather than relying on flashy visuals.
“The graphics definitely feel less like they're dated and more like they're for a modern recreation of an old-school game.”
“The graphics are reasonably basic, but this is the type of game that doesn't require magnanimous visuals or textures.”
“The interesting story and unique art style really make this game stand out.”
“The lack of any graphics also doesn't do much to alleviate the feeling of angry boredom I felt while playing the game.”
“The graphics are crap and could be nicer but are not essential for a game of this type.”
“There's very little in the way of graphics, all the encounters are described textually.”
- grinding55 mentions
- 2 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 98 % negative mentions
The reviews highlight a significant focus on grinding in the game, with many players finding it tedious and repetitive, particularly due to the reliance on RNG in combat and character progression. While some appreciate the character-building aspect and the challenge it presents, the overwhelming sentiment is that the grinding can detract from the overall enjoyment, making the experience feel unnecessarily prolonged and frustrating. Overall, the game is described as rewarding yet excessively grindy, often leading to a sense of monotony.
“But there's no grinding for a specific outcome because, either way, you reach the enemy camp and can go from there.”
“The only thing I really dislike is the phalanx combat; maybe I'm doing something wrong, but it just feels incredibly tedious and time-consuming.”
“A simple save system might not match the vision for the game, but you built a fascinating sim that shouldn't force 50 hours of grinding onto anyone that's looking to just see the 5 hours of content that was paid for.”
“It's an interesting concept, but ultimately a very RNG-dependent, grindy experience devoid of rewarding progression.”
- music38 mentions
- 32 % positive mentions
- 55 % neutral mentions
- 13 % negative mentions
The music in the game receives mixed reviews, with some players praising its dramatic and atmospheric qualities that enhance the storytelling and combat experience. However, many criticize the limited variety and repetitiveness of the soundtrack, noting that it consists mainly of a few royalty-free tracks that can become monotonous over extended play sessions. Overall, while the music fits the game's tone well, a broader and more diverse soundtrack would significantly improve the experience.
“A well thought out RPG with comfy music, high quality writing, and a perfect difficulty curve.”
“The music and stellar writing, despite its simplicity, give quite the iconic experience. I often come back from nostalgia to do another playthrough, following Scipio up the walls of Novo Carthago and Flaminius against the dreaded Macedonian phalanx again.”
“While there was a lack of diversity in the soundtrack, it is perfectly fitting and sets the mood and tone of the game very well, once more adding to the atmosphere.”
“The music is very repetitive.”
“Although some constructive feedback - why in the world are there like 3 songs for the entire game and why are they like 1 minute long each?”
“The game's soundtrack is made up from three royalty free tracks, and although they aren't bad, they get pretty annoying after a dozen or so hours of play.”
- optimization13 mentions
- 23 % positive mentions
- 54 % neutral mentions
- 23 % negative mentions
Overall, the game's optimization is generally well-received, with players praising its performance and visuals, noting no significant issues on high-end systems. However, there are calls for better optimization for platforms like the Steam Deck and improvements in gameplay mechanics, particularly for roguelike elements. As the game is still in early access, players are hopeful for future patches to enhance performance and balance.
“I like how the failure of your earlier characters allows you to develop better ones later on by generating bonus character generation points dependent upon your Hall of Fame performance.”
“Death isn't always horrible - while you won't get your character back, you'll get points based on your performance that you can then use to improve your next character.”
“Overall, I just absolutely love the training, and it feels like your performance in battle actually has an effect.”
“Game is not optimized enough for playing as a roguelike.”
“The game is in early access, so I understand that it needs some optimization and patches.”
“If the creator were to make a sequel with some optimization, different wars in antiquity, expanded story (or multiple campaigns), and actually not letting the AI cheat, it would be an absolute must-have.”
- atmosphere10 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- 10 % neutral mentions
- 30 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is widely praised for its historical accuracy, immersive writing, and effective soundtrack, which collectively create a compelling and engaging setting. Players feel a sense of insignificance within the grand narrative of war, enhancing the overall experience despite some criticisms regarding the lack of diversity in visuals and music. Overall, the atmosphere is considered a standout feature that significantly contributes to the game's appeal.
“Well researched, riveting, and atmospheric.”
“Historically accurate and great atmosphere in the game.”
“Beyond that, I also love the atmosphere, the setting, and the writing.”
“This atmosphere of being just a small number in some document makes you feel insignificant in a giant war machine that was the Roman Legion.”
“While there was a lack of diversity in the soundtrack, it is perfectly fitting and sets the mood and tone of the game very well. This can also be said for the sparse diversity of screens you will be seeing; however, with the combination of decent storytelling, a well-picked OST, and atmospheric and historically accurate portrayals, the game, despite lacking diversity, doesn't lack in atmosphere.”
“I picked it up on a whim due to the cheap price and a personal interest in ancient/classical history, which I'll start by saying the game delivers on very well along with the general atmosphere.”
- emotional7 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players find the emotional aspect of the game to be deeply engaging, with many expressing strong attachments to their characters and experiencing significant emotional highs and lows throughout gameplay. The combination of perma-death mechanics and heartfelt narratives, such as personal stories shared between characters, creates a uniquely immersive experience that resonates on a personal level, reminiscent of the emotional impact of reading a beloved fantasy book. Overall, the game successfully evokes a wide range of emotions, making each playthrough feel intense and rewarding.
“Really addictive and fun to get into, extremely replayable, and makes rolling the dice on just trying to survive or playing the hero a really emotional, intense, and rewarding experience.”
“Amazing and perfect game, made me feel so many different emotions throughout.”
“The perma-death reality really makes you think about your choices, and you get emotionally attached to characters who have gone on great runs or get lucky in tough fights.”
- character development5 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 20 % neutral mentions
- 40 % negative mentions
Character development in the game is praised for its integration with storytelling and combat mechanics, allowing players to shape their character's journey through meaningful decisions and relationships. While the narrative effectively balances action and character growth, some reviewers feel that the impact of choices could be deeper, suggesting that more branching paths would enhance the experience of evolving from an unknown soldier to a figure of renown. Overall, the character development is engaging but could benefit from additional complexity in decision-making.
“A simple yet interesting game, featuring character development, turn-based combat, and a storyline with plenty of decisions that affect your character as well as small-scale events in the war.”
“The story is both engaging and well presented, with a good balance between character development, action, and exposition.”
“Both a plus and a minus, a lot of the content is centered around being driven through a storyline with relatively minimally impactful decisions (which was sort of the point, tell a legendary tale, not some hero's), but it seems to me that the appeal of the game is to develop from a relatively unknown soldier into one of great renown; this would be more attainable or perhaps more rewarding if there were even more branches and decisions which had an effect on the story, or at least more branches in character development dialogue.”
“Also more in-depth character development, like being able to make a friend throughout the story of the game, and also being able to restart your history.”
- humor5 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is highlighted by its clever and absurd soldier names, which contribute to a lighthearted experience alongside engaging gameplay. Players appreciate the blend of poetic and comedic elements, making the game both entertaining and relatable. Overall, the humor is a standout feature that enhances the enjoyment of the historically accurate campaigns and combat mechanics.
“Best part of this game is the hilariously stupid names you can give your soldier.”
“Second best part is watching the growing number of hilarious names in your hall of fame.”
“This game, historically accurate, with a good set of ancient campaigns (and more to come!), has a very funny set of activities and a good combat/battle system, making it a real gem.”
- stability1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Overall, users rate the stability of the game positively, giving it an 8/10 for its impressive and bug-free gameplay, especially for an early access title, while acknowledging there is still room for improvement.
“I would rate it, based on my opinions, a solid 8/10, due to its ample room to improve, but its already amazing and bug-free gameplay for an early access game.”
