Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders

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Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders is a single player and multiplayer hack and slash game with a fantasy theme. It was developed by Blueside and was released on February 28, 2020. It received very positive reviews from players.

"Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders" is a real-time strategy game with RPG elements, set in a high fantasy world. Players command vast armies across large battlefields, while also controlling individual hero units with unique abilities. The game features a single-player campaign, skirmish mode, and multiplayer options, with a focus on strategic warfare and resource management.

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Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders screenshot

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93%

Audience ScoreBased on 727 reviews

story72 positive mentions

atmosphere3 negative mentions

A unique blend of RTS and hack-and-slash gameplay that remains engaging and fun.
Nostalgic experience for fans of the original Xbox game, with a solid storyline and memorable characters.
The heavy metal soundtrack enhances the gameplay and fits the game's atmosphere perfectly.

The game suffers from technical issues, including crashes when saving and poor keyboard controls.
Graphics are dated and may not appeal to modern gamers, lacking significant updates in the port.
Voice acting and dialogue can be cheesy and poorly executed, detracting from the overall experience.

story
211 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
34%
62%
4%
The game's story is a mix of engaging and generic elements, featuring a dark fantasy narrative that unfolds through multiple campaigns, each with unique characters and intertwining plots. While some players appreciate the depth and character development, others find the dialogue cringy and the pacing slow, with a few missions feeling tedious or poorly executed. Overall, the story is seen as a solid foundation that enhances the gameplay experience, despite some limitations in delivery and execution.
- “The story is epic and does a good job at sucking you into the narrative.”
- “The game delivers an interesting story full of political intrigue and supernatural bits and, despite being a fantasy title, it has a realistic feel to the whole thing.”
- “The characters are fleshed out and endearing, the metal soundtrack more than fits the world and story, and the overall atmosphere is dark and gloomy - Warhammer-esque.”
- “The campaign structure wears thin long before the story finds momentum.”
- “The story is awful; just ignore it.”
- “The plot also moves at a particularly glacial pace; one could say that the game doesn't 'really begin' until the third and fourth campaigns, with the first two being more of an opportunity for tutorialization and world building.”
gameplay
153 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
29%
69%
2%
The gameplay of "Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders" is widely praised for its unique blend of real-time strategy and hack-and-slash mechanics, offering a captivating experience that remains relevant despite its age. Players appreciate the depth of strategy involved in managing units and the satisfying combat, although some note that the controls can be clunky and the graphics dated. Overall, the game is celebrated for its innovative gameplay and engaging mechanics, making it a standout title that many recommend for both nostalgia and its distinct gameplay experience.
- “This game's unique blend of real-time strategy and action elements continues to captivate, and the gameplay holds up remarkably well by today's standards.”
- “The gameplay is both different and innovative from its predecessor while at its core it's still an RTS. What makes Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders so special is the refined hybrid nature of the RTS formula combined with the Dynasty Warriors-style musou combat mixed alongside RPG-lite features, all-in-one that turns Kingdom Under Fire into a large-scale hack and slash strategic masterpiece.”
- “The mix between RTS and action gameplay this game provides is so unique that you would truly be missing out on an experience not replicated by any other game.”
- “The controls are wonky and game mechanics are clunky.”
- “Frustration, however, will eventually get to everyone, because the mindless hack and slash third-person gameplay is the total opposite of the careful battle planning and correct unit usage of the RTS aspect, with the latter interrupting the flow of the former constantly.”
- “As for players who haven't played 'KUF: Crusaders', the game is set in a pretty generic European high fantasy world and mixes some basic action gameplay with some really awkward real-time strategy controls.”
music
115 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
45%
52%
3%
The music in the game is universally praised for its heavy metal soundtrack, which enhances the epic and immersive atmosphere during battles. Reviewers highlight its ability to match the game's gritty tone and chaotic gameplay, making combat feel intense and exhilarating. While some note that the soundtrack can become repetitive over time, the overall consensus is that it is one of the standout features, elevating the gaming experience significantly.
- “One of the game's standout features is its exceptional soundtrack, which adds an epic and immersive atmosphere to every battle.”
- “The metal soundtrack surprised me, initially by its existence, and then by how well it fits in with and creates intensity with the game every step of the way.”
- “The soundtrack is legendary, 'metal heavier than any knight’s plate!' indeed, each song fits the scene and battle like a glove and I can't stop listening to it, making smashing your horde of orcs against an enemy line so unique.”
- “The entire soundtrack, from the most mundane to chaotic sections, is heavy metal.”
- “6 hours of the same soundtrack going on repeat of the same electric guitar started to feel like barbed wires scraping against my ear.”
- “Graphics are terrible, animations are clunky, music is some guitar shit that is supposed to be 'cool', but it's not.”
graphics
114 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
20%
72%
8%
The graphics of this game, originally released over 20 years ago, are widely regarded as dated, with many users noting that they reflect the early 2000s aesthetic. While some appreciate the nostalgic charm and art style, others criticize the lack of modern graphical options and the presence of bugs. Overall, the visuals may not meet contemporary standards, but they still hold a certain appeal for fans of classic games, especially when enhanced with mods.
- “Graphics are good considering it's over 20 years old.”
- “The art style and character designs are fantastic.”
- “Graphics for an original Xbox game are very impressive; despite its age, it still looks great with a lot of care given to both animations and overall art style to give that immersion that you're in a different world where you're in command.”
- “It's a port of an old game; if you care about graphics a lot, you won't like it. This game came out in 480p, and yeah, there are bugs.”
- “Of course, the major issue is that this is a port of a 20-year-old game, and the graphics look very dated.”
- “The graphics are still pretty dated, so don't expect much in that department.”
optimization
12 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
25%
50%
25%
Overall, the game's optimization for PC is a mixed bag. While many players report smooth performance even on lower-end hardware and minimal resource usage, some criticize the controls as janky and recommend using a controller for a better experience. Additionally, the game is locked at 30 fps and lacks extensive performance options, which may detract from the experience for some users.
- “Performance-wise, it seems to work very, very well for a PC port with only some minor bugs here and there regarding mostly unit pathing that can be resolved with commanding to halt then move/attack. Rarely visual bugs, but overall runs very smooth. I do advise you to play the game and its expansion packs with an Xbox controller because the PC controls seem a bit janky for camera buttons, particularly when you need to react quickly, which is almost all the time.”
- “I am currently playing the game on a non-gaming laptop, and it runs smoothly without issue. The game performs well during heavy combat and troop movements, so that is great.”
- “The PC port is locked to 30 fps, but it's well-optimized and uses minimal resources.”
- “Was really terribly optimized for PC.”
- “The PC port is locked to 30 fps but it's well-optimized and uses minimal resources.”
- “Poorly optimized for PC, controls are very funky; better off playing with a controller, I do not have one though.”
replayability
11 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
36%
37%
27%
Overall, the game offers significant replayability due to its engaging multi-character story, diverse troop customization, and the ability to replay stages for experience and resources. However, the absence of multiplayer and custom battle modes limits its replay value for some players. Despite these drawbacks, many users find the campaigns compelling enough to revisit multiple times.
- “The game has some jank for sure being an older game but it tells a great multi-character story and is very replayable!”
- “Let me explain further, during each campaign you’ll choose stages on a map according to the story, some stages will be replayable for experience and money grinding.”
- “These campaigns are so good that I've lost count of how many times I've played them; the troop customization, diversity of units, officers, and companions add so much replayability.”
- “The only real complaints that I have are against the replayability and character selection.”
- “No multiplayer means little to no replay value.”
- “Just wish there was the old school PvP that we had from the console days... the replayability if that was available would be endless.”
humor
11 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
91%
9%
The humor in the game is a standout feature, with players appreciating its engaging story and amusing dialogue, despite some dated elements and awkward character models. Many reviews highlight the hilariously poor translations and voice acting, which add to the comedic experience, making it a nostalgic and entertaining journey. Overall, the game successfully blends humor with gameplay, providing plenty of laughs throughout.
- “The story is engaging, a little dated, and in some cases hilariously translated or voice acted.”
- “Funny to boot too, on the second campaign: Lucretia, and their dialogue a few levels in just cracks me up.”
- “The only thing my rose-tinted glasses hid from me was the hilarious translation errors.”
atmosphere
7 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
29%
28%
43%
The game's atmosphere is widely praised for its immersive quality, enhanced by a standout hard rock soundtrack that complements its gritty, low fantasy setting. Reviewers note that the combination of engaging graphics, a compelling story, and well-developed characters creates a dark and epic ambiance, setting a high standard for similar titles. Overall, the atmosphere is described as unique and captivating, making it a memorable experience.
- “One of the game's standout features is its exceptional soundtrack, which adds an epic and immersive atmosphere to every battle.”
- “The low fantasy, gritty, dark, headbanging atmosphere made this game one of a kind as well as setting a standard that makes Kingdom Under Fire 2 such a disappointment.”
- “The low fantasy, gritty, dark, headbanging atmosphere made this game one of a kind, as well as setting a standard that makes Kingdom Under Fire 2 such a major disappointment.”
- “The overall graphics and art style do well enough to immerse you in the atmosphere, though they’re certainly a long shot from what you probably prefer in an action game at this point.”
- “Characters are fleshed out and endearing, the metal soundtrack more than fits the world and story, and the overall atmosphere is dark and gloomy - Warhammer-esque.”
character development
6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
67%
33%
Character development in the game is noted to be somewhat limited, primarily serving the dark fantasy narrative rather than deepening individual character arcs. While some players appreciate the engaging story and character interactions, others criticize the voice acting and character designs, which detract from the overall experience. The gameplay focuses more on strategy and action, with character development taking a backseat to gameplay mechanics.
- “It's story is solid dark fantasy fare, its levels are fun, the character designs are cool, and each character plays very differently.”
- “The art style and character designs are fantastic.”
- “I find the story to be interesting and the character development/banter enjoyable.”
- “It has dated graphics and ugly character designs, and the English voice acting is basically every mediocre to bad Japanese anime-esque English dub ever (yes, I know this game is Korean, don't bite my head off).”
- “There's a bit of character development as far as story goes, but more action and strategy than anything.”
stability
6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
33%
67%
Overall, the game's stability on PC is mixed; while many players report a functional experience with no game-breaking bugs during campaigns, others note that it is a buggy port with issues related to controls and keybinding. Despite these concerns, the game remains enjoyable and is considered a solid way to play, albeit with some technical shortcomings.
- “No glitches that I noticed going through Gerald's campaign, starting Luci's, and enjoying the bad guys running around slaughtering people!”
- “The game runs great on PC, and it's probably the definitive way to play now, but don't be mistaken, it's a straight port.”
- “The game attempted a PC port but is a bit buggy with PC controls.”
- “Not talking about the game as a whole, it's an excellent game, but it's buggy as hell.”
- “Really enjoying it again in 2020 - a tad buggy though.”
emotional
4 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The emotional aspect of the game is highlighted by its impactful music and a compelling, often dark narrative that resonates with players. The combination of strategic gameplay and the emotional weight of the story creates a rewarding experience, despite some inconsistencies in voice acting quality. Overall, players feel a deep connection to the struggles and triumphs within the game.
- “Great music, heartfelt, sometimes dark and gritty struggles and story.”
- “The games are both mentally, emotionally, and physically taxing but immensely rewarding when you finally figure out how to coordinate your troops.”
- “Only criticism is that about half of the voice acting in English is a little... eh... but at least 53% of it is solid with some instances of truly heartfelt delivery.”
grinding
3 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious and often unenjoyable, with missions described as unclear and boring. The need to replay stages for experience and currency adds to the frustration, detracting from the overall experience.
- “Then there's the missions and how tedious, unclear, or straight-up boring they can be.”
- “Tedious and simply bad.”
- “Let me explain further: during each campaign, you’ll choose stages on a map according to the story. Some stages will be replayable for experience and money grinding.”
monetization
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
50%
50%
Reviewers express disappointment with the monetization of the game, labeling it a cash grab due to minimal new features and a lack of advertising. The sentiment suggests that the game feels neglected, akin to abandonware.
- “The only new thing it has is the widescreen support and loose file support; other than that, this port is pretty much a cash grab and is now abandonware.”

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12h Median play time

13h Average play time

9-20h Spent by most gamers

*Based on 8 analyzed playthroughs

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Frequently Asked Questions

Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders is a hack and slash game with fantasy theme.

Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders is available on PC, Steam Deck, Windows and Xbox.

On average players spend around 13 hours playing Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders.

Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders was released on February 28, 2020.

Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders was developed by Blueside.

Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders has received very positive reviews from players. Most players liked this game for its story but disliked it for its optimization.

Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders is a single player game with multiplayer support.

Similar games include Kingdom Under Fire: Heroes, Heroes of Might & Magic V, Freedom Fighters, Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War, Age of Wonders and others.

Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders

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