Throne of Lies: Medieval Politics
- September 29, 2017
- Imperium42®, LLC
- 81h median play time
Get on Steam"Throne of Lies: Medieval Politics" is a multiplayer game of deception and investigation. Players take on the roles of nobles in a medieval kingdom and must work together to uncover a group of traitors in their midst while also advancing their own agendas. With a variety of classes, abilities, and betrayals, the game encourages social deduction and strategic thinking. Trust no one and make every decision count in this intense game of medieval political intrigue.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- Throne of Lies is a complex and engaging social deduction game with a variety of unique classes and abilities, making each match feel fresh and exciting.
- The developers are active and responsive to community feedback, frequently updating the game to improve balance and fix bugs.
- The community, while occasionally toxic, generally consists of helpful players who are willing to assist newcomers in learning the game.
- The game has a steep learning curve, which can be overwhelming for new players, leading to frustration and potential toxicity from more experienced players.
- The player base has significantly declined, resulting in long queue times and difficulty finding matches, especially during off-peak hours.
- Moderation can be inconsistent, with reports of players being banned for minor infractions or misunderstandings, creating a hostile environment for some.
- gameplay450 mentions
- 32 % positive mentions
- 64 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The gameplay of "Throne of Lies" is widely praised for its depth, complexity, and unique mechanics, particularly the conversion mechanic that adds a strategic layer to social deduction. Players appreciate the variety of roles and abilities, which contribute to a dynamic experience where no two matches are the same. However, the steep learning curve and occasional balance issues can frustrate newcomers, and some players express concerns about the community's toxicity and the need for clearer tutorials to help new players grasp the intricate mechanics.
“It's probably the best social deduction game out there in terms of gameplay, good complexity and lots of roles to keep it interesting.”
“The role design and balance is fantastic and provides varied and unique gameplay.”
“Gameplay is amazing, immersive, and fun.”
“The only reason I don't recommend this game is because of how ambiguous the mechanics of the game are.”
“The game also has a lot of things that are inconsistent (a few bugs that are 'mechanics') and new players wouldn't be able to grasp, considering you to be a detriment to your team and then getting reported for 'gamethrowing'.”
“The only flaw is the learning curve for new players can be pretty insane, which can lead to other players getting tilted when seeing their side make an 'obvious mistake', when it's a brand new player who has barely seen their own character's mechanics yet, let alone memorized the mechanics of every other toon.”
- graphics187 mentions
- 21 % positive mentions
- 65 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game have received mixed reviews, with many players noting that while the artwork is commendable, the 3D models and overall visual presentation feel dated and unpolished, reminiscent of early 2000s titles. Despite the graphical shortcomings, players emphasize that the gameplay experience, particularly in social deduction mechanics, outweighs aesthetic concerns. Some express hope for future graphical improvements, but many agree that the visuals do not significantly detract from the enjoyment of the game.
“The game has some really beautiful environments and the graphics are really well designed and laid out.”
“This game has amazing artwork and is one of the better social deduction games out there.”
“Don't let the visuals deceive you, this game is a gem.”
“The overall graphics and UI are half-assed and similar to a flash game from 2008.”
“The graphics are awful, but who cares?”
“They promise to improve on the art design and character models and literally never did... it's like they couldn't just pony up and get some help, so instead we have F-grade level graphics and animations that never improved like they promised they would.”
- humor86 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is widely praised, with players finding it both hilarious and engaging, particularly in group settings where social deduction leads to amusing interactions and unexpected outcomes. Many reviews highlight the game's ability to generate laughter through its mechanics, such as the "trollbox" feature, and the community's penchant for creating funny moments, even amidst a backdrop of toxicity. Overall, the game is described as a source of endless comedic scenarios, making it a fun experience for those who enjoy lighthearted deception and playful banter.
“Overall the game is insanely fun, filled with hilarious moments. I highly encourage learning the game by using the wikia or watching people play.”
“The inclusion of certain abilities such as 'trollbox,' which enables you to make someone spout words of your choice, makes for some pretty funny interactions.”
“Every game is hilarious.”
- music62 mentions
- 45 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 5 % negative mentions
The music in the game receives mixed reviews, with some players praising its ability to enhance the atmosphere and fit the game's themes, particularly noting how well it complements different character classes. However, others criticize certain tracks for being repetitive or grating, leading to negative experiences. Overall, while many appreciate the soundtrack's contribution to the game's ambiance, there are significant concerns about its quality and variety.
“Overall, I majorly enjoy the gameplay style of the game and greatly enjoy the musical selection, one of the few games in this style where I don't get bored of the soundtrack.”
“The general look and feel of the game is pretty good, each class having their own room and music theme during the night sessions. The music is totally amazing how well it fits, creating a malicious 'game of deceit' vibe that motivates me to really try and do well.”
“The music is fantastic, and sometimes it reflects how tense things are.”
“The music gave me migraines because it's just a loop of some guitar music with the nails-on-a-chalkboard sound that some songs have from fingers running along the strings.”
“Instead, nothing in-game felt like the art previews; the music was too positive with tracks taken from free bank sources, the design was all over the place, and the illusion kind of faded immediately.”
“So now the game has a bit more content, some improvements on design [which is still questionable and all over the place] and music, but still, it's all over the place with new classes constantly being introduced and old ones being remade because they are broken, meaning developers have no idea how to balance the game.”
- replayability51 mentions
- 43 % positive mentions
- 51 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The game boasts exceptional replayability, driven by a vast array of classes and roles that ensure no two games are alike. Players appreciate the depth and variety, which contribute to a steep learning curve but ultimately enhance the experience. With continuous updates from the developers and a strong community, the replay value remains high, making it a worthwhile investment.
“The game has endless replayability, and the devs seem to be constantly tweaking and adding/removing things.”
“The sheer volume of information you have to absorb is daunting at first, but the dozens of roles on each of the three sides gives you near limitless replay value of near infinite depth.”
“Each game is an entirely different experience, so this game has a huge replayability.”
“The sheer volume of information you have to absorb is daunting at first, and the community is rather intolerant of poor play while you learn the ropes, but the dozens of roles on each of the three sides - blue dragon (goodies), cult/unseen (baddies), neutrals (either, or neutral killers who hate everyone) - gives you near limitless replay value of near infinite depth.”
“Only 11 hours and a bit of studying the game is wildly fun if you enjoy confusing people and being confused sometimes; ridiculous replayability as almost every game is different and all the roles are different and keep you entertained.”
“Replay value is monumental; every game feels different.”
- stability32 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game's stability has been a significant concern, with many players reporting frequent crashes, bugs, and glitches, particularly following recent updates that were largely reverted due to their negative impact. While some users acknowledge that the game is still enjoyable despite these issues, the overall consensus is that the stability problems, including audio glitches and critical bugs, have led to frustration and potential abandonment by new players. However, there is a recognition that the game is still in its early stages, and some glitches are being addressed with patches.
“The most recent updates have almost all been reverted due to them being too buggy or just a bad idea in general.”
“Seriously, the maid should have been hotfixed the day after it was broken, and I can only imagine how many new players abandoned the game as a buggy mess after they saw players get executed as a result of a critical bug that was left unfixed for months.”
“They made the game a lot more buggy; it crashes all the time, games fail to end, and the music gave me migraines because it's just a loop of some guitar music with the nails-on-a-chalkboard sound that some songs have from fingers running along the strings.”
- story20 mentions
- 15 % positive mentions
- 70 % neutral mentions
- 15 % negative mentions
The game's story is described as minimal and lacking traditional incentives for continued play, such as daily quests or achievements. However, players find enjoyment in the unexpected plot twists and character dynamics that unfold, particularly during moments of death and spectating, which create a lively atmosphere reminiscent of a board game night. The unique roles and missions of characters add depth to the experience, despite the overall narrative being perceived as sad and underdeveloped.
“I never thought I'd have so much fun dying in a game and spectating to the end to see all the plot twists and turns that develop, some of my own doing that don't reveal themselves until days after my own death.”
“Twists and turns in the plot amaze without end and you never know for certain unless someone dies.”
“You will witness some crazy moments and plenty of plot twists to keep you watching even after you die, chatting it up with other dead and speculating who is who or what will happen.”
“In terms of story, there is practically none.”
“The story of this game is a sad one.”
“There is no incentive to keep playing, no daily quest or whatever, no daily login bonus, no first win victory of the day bonus, no achievements (which played a huge part in keeping the player base active).”
- monetization16 mentions
- 19 % positive mentions
- 63 % neutral mentions
- 19 % negative mentions
The game's monetization system is generally well-received, with players noting that while there are microtransactions for cosmetics and gold, they are not mandatory and do not affect gameplay balance. Players can earn in-game currency even in defeat, and the overall approach to monetization is seen as fair and considerate, contrasting positively with other titles in the genre.
“There are no microtransactions, and you earn gold, even on a defeat.”
“Offers microtransactions for skins, animations, etc., but not in a way that would make it unfair for players that choose not to buy them.”
“There are microtransactions to purchase gold, but they are not mandatory or game-breaking as they provide you a faster way to get cosmetics that do not impact gameplay.”
“This game should be free-to-play with in-game purchases driving the cost.”
“Imagine Town of Salem but without the terrible development choices and cash grabbing.”
“It's apparent that they care very deeply, and that monetization is not a priority for them.”
- emotional12 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players express a strong emotional investment in the game, finding satisfaction in overcoming challenges and turning the tide in difficult situations. However, the presence of toxic players and impulsive behavior detracts from the experience, leading to frustration. Overall, while the game can evoke a sense of camaraderie and enjoyment, it also requires improvements to enhance the emotional experience.
“Winning the game is very satisfying as you tend to be emotionally invested into the game, as you could be wrongly framed, caught out as evil, but turning it around, etc.”
“I personally enjoyed reading it, which made me feel like I have to play this game, not alone - share it with as many friends as I know would like it.”
“This gave me a couple of easy wins but also made me feel as if I did not have to be perfect at my job right away.”
- optimization12 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- 58 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The game's optimization has received mixed reviews, with frequent patches providing some balance and performance improvements. However, players have criticized the high graphics requirements and overall lack of optimization, noting issues such as low frame rates and subpar graphical performance.
“Patches are quite frequent, and most of them bring actual balance, quality of life changes, or performance improvements.”
“Graphics could be better optimized.”
“Another thing I'd like to point out is the stupidly high graphics requirements and lack of optimization.”
“It doesn't seem to be optimized very well.”
“A game that doesn't need graphical performance, but doesn't go higher than 30 fps.”
- atmosphere9 mentions
- 11 % positive mentions
- 56 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is characterized by engaging ambient music and cartoonish graphics that create a role-playing feel, despite not being a traditional role-playing game. However, the community can be challenging for newcomers, as control-freak moderators and disruptive trolls often detract from the overall experience, leading to a stifling environment that hampers creativity and enjoyment.
“Although it is not about roleplay, the whole atmosphere of the game will make you feel like you are playing a role - ambient music, cartoonish graphics, and, most importantly, the goals of a certain role.”
“The game itself is okay, but most of the mods are control freaks who cannot take the smallest point of sarcasm or jest, which ruins the atmosphere and experience.”
“The developers’ focus on appeasing streamers rather than addressing the broader community’s needs has led to a stifling atmosphere where creativity and experimentation are stifled.”
“Typically, games like these are ruined by the group atmosphere and trolls who seek to spoil the fun.”
- grinding8 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players express significant frustration with grinding, describing it as tedious and unenjoyable, particularly due to the lack of seasons, stats, or achievements. While some have adapted to the grind and found ways to make it more enjoyable through social interactions, the overall sentiment leans towards a dislike for unreasonable grinding practices.
“It's become so bad and hateful that it seems tedious to even get on.”
“No seasons, stats or achievements - yes, we all hate unreasonable grinding.”
“In the beginning, I found it a bit tedious, but I've grown accustomed to it and actually enjoy more time to discuss who to lynch and why.”
- character development4 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviewers praise the character development for its stunning design and art, highlighting that the classes are more active and engaging compared to similar games like "Town of Salem." This combination of visual appeal and dynamic gameplay contributes to a more immersive character experience.
“The character design and art is gorgeous.”
“Character design - classes feel a lot more active and engaging compared to competing titles like 'Town of Salem'.”
