Blade&Sword
- February 23, 2022
- Beijing Pixel Software Technology Joint-Stock Co.,Ltd.
Get on Steam"Blade&Sword" is a ported action RPG set in ancient times, where players wield swords to resist Emperor Jo's spirit seeking world domination. With fighting as its main theme, it distinguishes itself from traditional ARPGs by incorporating fighting game elements. Originally released in multiple countries, it was a bestseller and a top 10 RPG in the US in 2003.
Reviews
- The game offers a unique combat system that requires skill and strategy, making it more engaging than typical click-to-win ARPGs.
- It has a nostalgic charm and is well-received by fans of classic ARPGs, with many praising its deep mechanics and beautiful graphics.
- The game runs well on modern systems and has been updated to remove suspicious files, making it accessible for new players.
- The game suffers from performance issues, including lag and choppy frame rates, which can detract from the experience.
- Some players find the grind tedious, with bosses being overly spongy and a lack of immediate equipment upgrades.
- There have been reports of the game being flagged as a virus, causing confusion and frustration among potential players.
- gameplay3 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- -33 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the game is distinct from traditional Diablo clones, drawing more parallels to action titles like Devil May Cry, with a focus on action-based mechanics rather than item-centric gameplay. Players appreciate its unique approach, complemented by a grimdark atmosphere, impressive soundtrack, and strong art direction, making it a highly recommended experience.
“Blade & Sword is my favorite Diablo-like game to this day due to many reasons - I'd say it's the best at replicating the grimdark atmosphere, it has an amazing soundtrack and art direction, and the more action-based rather than item-based mechanics make it quite a different and unique game.”
“Tl;dr: I can highly recommend the game; it has wonderful presentation and interesting gameplay.”
“As other people said, this is not a Diablo clone; it looks like it, but mechanically it is more similar to Devil May Cry.”
“Blade & Sword is my favorite Diablo-like game to this day due to many reasons. I'd say it's the best at replicating the grimdark atmosphere; it has an amazing soundtrack and art direction, and the more action-based rather than item-based mechanics make it quite a different and unique game.”
- graphics3 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- -33 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are generally praised for their beauty and intricate design, particularly in relation to the Eastern level aesthetics, though some users report performance issues that suggest the game may be demanding more from their hardware than it can handle. Additionally, the visuals are noted to have aged well, complementing the game's engaging combat and storytelling elements. However, a limitation mentioned is the inability to enter buildings, which detracts from the immersive experience.
“The game itself is excellent - 3 different characters, deep and exciting combat system, beautiful graphics that aged like fine wine and some incomprehensible story mixing together classic Chinese folklore, mythology, and history.”
“Graphics are okay, thanks to the Eastern level design, though it's a pity that you can't enter the houses.”
“I don't know what is causing it, but the game is laggy as if it has high graphics running on something that cannot handle it.”
“The graphics are okay, thanks to the Eastern level design, but it's a shame that you can't enter the houses.”
- music2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The music in "Blade & Sword" is praised for its ability to enhance the game's grimdark atmosphere, contributing significantly to its overall appeal. However, some users have reported issues with the music not looping properly, which may be related to individual setups rather than a widespread problem.
“Blade & Sword is my favorite Diablo-like game to this day due to many reasons - I'd say it's the best at replicating the grimdark atmosphere, it has an amazing soundtrack and art direction, and the more action-based rather than item-based mechanics make it quite a different and unique game.”
“For some reason, the music does not loop for me, but I'm not sure if it's because of the release or just my setup.”
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Players feel that while the game has intriguing concepts, they are often overshadowed by repetitive and tedious grinding, which detracts from the overall experience.
“Interesting ideas are buried by tedious grind.”
“The grinding feels endless and detracts from the overall enjoyment of the game.”
“I find myself spending more time grinding than actually enjoying the gameplay.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of "Blade & Sword" is highly praised for its effective replication of a grimdark setting, complemented by an impressive soundtrack and art direction. The game's action-oriented mechanics further enhance its unique ambiance, distinguishing it from other titles in the genre.
“Blade & Sword is my favorite Diablo-like game to this day due to many reasons. I'd say it's the best at replicating the grimdark atmosphere, with an amazing soundtrack and art direction. The more action-based rather than item-based mechanics make it quite a different and unique game.”
