Video Game Review: Blackguards 2

Developer & Publisher: Daedalic Entertainment

Genre: Strategy

Reviewed For: Nintendo Switch

Also Available On: PC, PlayStation, Xbox

Blackguards is a tactical turn-based strategy franchise that isn’t necessarily big, but has enjoyed some solid entries. Blackguards 2 was released by Daedalic Entertainment in 2015, and while the reviews weren’t raving, it was another enjoyable strategy game with meaningful choices throughout the narrative. It’s been quite some time since its release and the prequel isn’t on the Switch, but Blackguards 2 gives strategy fans another solid experience to enjoy on the go. 

A significant piece of Blackguards 2 is the narrative, and Switch users will likely find themselves in the dark. In fact, the gameplay is just solid through, and it’s the story and characters that make this really worth playing. Players will likely want to catch up somehow, whether that’s playing the original on PC or simply watching a summary video. The tutorial will briefly catch players up, but not enough. Not understanding what is happening isn’t the end of the world, but Blackguards 2 is much more enjoyable with context. 

Gameplay is about as typical as it can get in the genre. The field is a grid full of hexagon spaces, and players will command a squad of mercenaries. Players can move their own units, attack others, and interact with the environment in small ways. The engine behind the game is fair and works well, but there aren’t any shiny features that make Blackguards 2 stand out. It doesn’t necessarily do anything wrong, but it doesn’t have the tools to pull someone into the game that isn’t already a fan of the genre. 

The combat is underwhelming, but the story is intriguing, especially because players have tons of freedom. Players can be border-line villainous, with many routes that result in the death of their teammates in the name of progress. Choices matter, and the game handles gray areas quite well. 

As a port, Blackguards 2 is serviceable. This game doesn’t have much visual flair and can look rather bland at times. The Switch doesn’t do much to enhance or hold back the visual experience. Everything is pretty dark, so it’s hard to appreciate anything that Blackguards 2 might have going for it graphically. Fortunately, it runs well both docked and handheld. The handheld visuals certainly help hide some of the imperfections though, making it the best way to play. 

It won’t convert anyone, and the Switch already has a solid lineup of strategy games. Still, Blackguards 2 has a compelling story and will hold over fans of the genre until the next big release comes (Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope, maybe?).