This is not a flawless game but it is definitely a great game to shake things up a bit from other titles with more run-of-the-mill gameplay. PROS: -Showdown Mechanic can have you coordinating a bloody spectacle with your squad taking down several enemies in a flash. It adds a sense of fast-paced action in an otherwise slow and methodical game. -Characters all felt unique with neat quirks to their gameplans -Levels were all clearly thought out and there is always a solution despite the trickiest circumstances CONS: -Sometimes the quicksave doesn't quite revert you to your last save (so you end up dragging your characters into position again to figure out what went wrong) -Sometimes objects in the game can overlap a bit a make for some confusing moments for your character (sometimes getting you spotted) OVERALL: If you are looking for an interesting and deeply tactical stealth game this just might do the trick. Definitely worth wishlisting at the very least.
I've been playing GWENT since the beta and find that I've generally enjoyed all the changes that have impacted the game since the Homecoming update. The game is very streamlined compared to some of the wackier mechanics that the game had during the beta. That isn't to say that wacky cards don't exist, there are simply less opportunities to get away with otherwise game breaking mechanics. In terms of the F2P model this game is exceedingly generous (especially compared to hearthstone). You'll be able to craft a strong enough deck in no time to start gaining rank sooner than you'd imagine. My personal highlights with GWENT are primarily around the incredible artwork and attention to detail for those who are fans of the Witcher series (books & games). The premium artwork really brings the game to life with amazing card art animations. My main issue with the game has to do with some of the balancing regarding certain mechanics that overemphasis some playstyles over others. This is something I know that's bound to ebb and flow with every other update but it can be frustrating to see the same decks over and over again when a certain card starts to take over the meta (currently Viy and Korathi Heatwave). In the end I find this game to be an ultimately rewarding experience which is sure to play much better with friends over ranked. There are other more casual modes such as the seasonal match types and he new Draft mode where you're able to get away with some crazy combos. Make no mistake, this is definitely a competitive game and will frustrate any long-time player at some point but the deck-building and unique ideas GWENT is capable of bringing to the table make it the CCG you should definitely check out.
For a fan of the Witcher series this game plays out just like any one of Sapkowski's stories. It's highly engaging with well-made characters and some similar themes to the Witcher series as a whole. You'll make many tough decisions through well animated dialogue sequences that do a great job of immersing you in the story. Gameplay-wise if you are familiar with Gwent (Homecoming Version) you'll be somewhat familiar with Thronebreaker's system. I'm a big fan of Gwent myself so this game was perfect for me (not to mention all the Gwent unlockables). This game is like Gwent on steroids as the battles play for many more points than a typical Gwent match. Whereas Gwent tends to end rounds between 30-60 points Thronebreaker will see you well into the hundreds in the late game. My main critique is that a couple of the puzzle battles are poorly worded where I had to look up the solution. Nothing too bad because there are plenty of online resources for this game. Ultimately the puzzle battles are some of the most creative uses of the card game mechanic I've seen to date. Overall, highly recommended for any Witcher fans and a must buy if you also enjoy Gwent.
