Band of Crusaders is a dark medieval strategy RPG in which you become Grandmaster of a knightly order and lead it against a demonic invasion of Europe. Craft your sandbox adventure - explore a vast simulated world, recruit crusaders, grow your camp, and face demons & human foes in real-time combat.
RPG Gamers summaryBand of Crusaders is an immersive tactical strategy game, developed by Virtual Alchemy, set in a dark medieval Europe gripped by fear and heresy. The crux of the narrative sees players take on the role of the Grandmaster of a knightly order, leading a holy crusade against demonic forces threatening to envelop the land.
Summering with an array of tactical RPG mechanics, the gameplay revolves around the tension of combat enriched by slow-motion dynamics. It invites players to be strategic, highlighting the impact of character synergies, smart use of abilities, and correct unit positioning on the battlefield. The stakes are high, with permadeath being a real risk for crusaders, turning each skirmish into a high-impact engagement.
But the scope of Band of Crusaders goes beyond the battlefield. Players are tasked with managing a roster of up to 20 crusaders, each carrying their unique backgrounds, strengths, and weaknesses. Developing the camp by recruiting, healing, making repairs, conducting training, and more, forms a vital part of this journey.
Significantly, the game eschews fixed character classes and instead opts for a more flexible system that allows players to create multi-dimensional, multi-role builds through attribute enhancement and skill tree progression. The game’s equipment and abilities tie directly to the weapons of each crusader, further emphasizing the strategic aspect of gameplay.
A unique feature the game brings forth is its dynamic world that evolves over time, influenced by both player and NPC interactions. The invasion of demonic forces is simulated, sparking reactions from the human population. This persistent threat culminates into epic boss battles, where players have the chance to turn the tide and become mankind’s savior.
Besides humans, players also encounter a vast array of demonic enemies, inspired by biblical lore and European folklore. Band of Crusaders encourages players to strategize and adapt their combat tactics to match these adversaries, each sporting their strengths and weaknesses.
From an indie developer deeply steeped in Poland’s rich history, Band of Crusaders stands as a testament to Virtual Alchemy’s philosophy of prioritizing player freedom and expression. It aims to deliver intellectually stimulating experiences, creating games with unique and compelling identities. Consequently, Band of Crusaders is poised to appeal to lovers of strategic combat and immersive narrative alike, making it a noteworthy addition to the pantheon of tactical RPGs.
