SWORDLORD
- January 21, 2015
- Justin Varghese
Get on Steam
Get on itch.io StoreSwordlord is a 2D sword-swinging gladiator game where players can choose up to 4 characters to slay enemies, loot money and health, and buy weapons and armor. The goal is to overthrow the bloodthirsty Duke of War and become the new champion of history. Players can look forward to fast-paced action and various challenges in this epic battle for freedom.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- Swordlord offers a satisfying and engaging combat experience with easy-to-learn mechanics that become challenging to master.
- The retro 8-bit graphics and soundtrack create a nostalgic atmosphere that enhances the overall enjoyment of the game.
- It's an excellent value for the price, providing fun gameplay and replayability that exceeds expectations for a budget title.
- The game lacks multiplayer options, which limits its replayability and social interaction.
- There is a notable absence of a save feature, making it inconvenient for players who want to pause and resume their progress.
- Some players feel that the game could benefit from more content and character development to enhance the overall experience.
- gameplay18 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 17 % negative mentions
The gameplay of Swordlord is characterized by simple yet engaging mechanics, where players spin their weapons to defeat opponents, creating a satisfying experience, especially when landing a killing blow after building momentum. While the core mechanics may seem straightforward, the game offers unique boss fights that introduce varied challenges, keeping the experience fresh. Overall, it combines retro visuals, a catchy soundtrack, and enjoyable physics-based gameplay for a memorable, albeit brief, adventure.
“Landing a killing blow after building up enough momentum with your weapon is satisfying, and it doesn't take you long to adjust to the main gameplay mechanic.”
“The boss fights have unique spells that change the fight mechanics a little bit so it doesn’t feel the same.”
“It's a simple fun game, yet the bosses can be a good challenge with some interesting mechanics.”
“Most of the screenshots and videos one may find will tell the story of the gameplay, but to accurately summarize, you spin your weapon at the other guy who also spins his weapon. There's a little bit of swordplay in how one maneuvers their weapon to effectively defeat their opponent, and while it is intriguing, it's also something that won't matter in over an hour or so.”
“At first glance, it may seem like simple mechanics: swing, slash, kill.”
“The boss fights have unique spells that change the fight mechanics a little bit, so it doesn’t feel the same.”
- graphics12 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 17 % negative mentions
The graphics of Swordlord are celebrated for their nostalgic 8-bit style, reminiscent of classic games from the 80s and 90s, earning high praise with a perfect score of 10/10. Players appreciate the updated-but-retro visuals that complement the game's quirky physics-based gameplay, making it a standout choice for fans of retro aesthetics. Overall, the graphics effectively evoke a sense of nostalgia while delivering an enjoyable visual experience.
“Graphics: 10/10”
“The soundtrack, updated-but-retro visuals and silly physics gameplay are all excellent.”
“Please buy this game and support this person so he can update his graphics.”
“Swordlord will cater to those who love these types of visuals from the 80’s and 90’s, and it does not disappoint!”
- music10 mentions
- 80 % positive mentions
- 20 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is consistently praised for its quality, with many reviewers highlighting the "kickass soundtrack" that enhances the overall experience. The combination of updated-but-retro visuals and engaging soundtracks contributes to a refreshing gameplay atmosphere, making it a standout feature of the game. Overall, the soundtrack is described as excellent and a significant asset to the game's appeal.
“The soundtrack, updated-but-retro visuals and silly physics gameplay are all excellent.”
“The game’s music adds a nice touch, and the multiple soundtracks keep the incoming waves refreshing.”
“Swordlord is a short, sweet, arena battle game with a great soundtrack and fun art design.”
- story6 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The story aspect of the game is perceived as lacking depth, primarily focusing on the mechanics of weapon spinning and combat rather than character development or narrative. Players express a desire for a more engaging story mode, character backstories, and additional gameplay elements like multiplayer or rogue-lite features to enhance the overall experience. While the gameplay is intriguing initially, it quickly becomes repetitive without a compelling story to support it.
“I would love to see some story development for these characters, because visually they are unique, and it would be interesting to know who they are and where they come from!”
“Most of the screenshots and videos one may find will tell the story of the gameplay, but to accurately summarize, you spin your weapon at the other guy who also spins his weapon. There's a little bit of swordplay in how one maneuvers their weapon to effectively defeat their opponent, and while it is intriguing, it's also something that won't matter in over an hour or so.”
“Get some story mode with some badass levels and multiplayer. Hell, make that a rogue-lite or something; I don't care, and I would pay way more than one dollar.”
“I would also love to see some story development for these characters, because visually they are unique, and it would be interesting to know who they are and where they come from!”
- humor2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviewers highlight the humor in the game, particularly praising the hilarious voice acting that enhances the overall experience. The well-balanced bosses also contribute to the comedic elements, making for an entertaining gameplay experience.
“The bosses are well balanced, and the voice acting is hilarious.”
