Rising Lords is a medieval strategy game that combines turn-based tactics, card and board game elements, and resource management. Created by Indie team Argonwood, you can send your serfs to fight and die for you, or let them prosper and use them to your advantage. You can also forge alliances or wage war with other lords in single player or multiplayer modes.
Publisher: Deck 13 Spotlight
Developer: Argonwood
Release Date:Â 18 January 2024
Thanks to Publisher for the review code.
In the ever-expanding realm of medieval strategy games, Rising Lords emerges as a notable contender, aiming to blend the complexity of turn-based strategy with the charm of board game mechanics. Developed by Argonwood, a relatively new player in the game development field, Rising Lords sets itself apart with its unique art style and an intriguing mix of strategy, resource management, and tactical combat.
Gameplay Mechanics
At its core, Rising Lords is a turn-based strategy game that demands careful planning and resource management. Players take on the role of a medieval lord, responsible for the well-being and prosperity of their domain. The game’s depth is immediately apparent in its resource management system, which requires players to balance food, wood, stone, and gold – each essential for different aspects of development.
What sets Rising Lords apart is its card-based system that influences various aspects of gameplay. From boosting your army’s strength to affecting the outcome of harvests, these cards add an unpredictable element to the strategy, making each playthrough unique. The integration of these cards into the game’s mechanics is both seamless and innovative, fostering a dynamic gaming experience.
Visuals and Audio
Visually, Rising Lords adopts a distinctive style reminiscent of medieval manuscripts, complete with hand-drawn maps and characters that look like they have been plucked straight from a medieval tapestry. This artistic choice is not only aesthetically pleasing but also helps in immersing the player in the game’s historical setting.
The audio design complements the visuals well, with a soundtrack that captures the essence of the medieval era. The clashing of swords, the chatter of peasants, and the sound of construction all contribute to an authentic medieval atmosphere.
Combat and Multiplayer
Combat in Rising Lords is a blend of strategy and tactics. Positioning, unit types, and terrain all play crucial roles in determining the outcome of battles. The game encourages players to think critically about every move, as a single mistake can turn the tide of a skirmish.
Multiplayer adds another layer of excitement to Rising Lords. Competing against other players, each with their own strategies and playstyles, ensures that no two battles are the same. The game’s multiplayer component is robust, offering both competitive and cooperative modes that cater to different player preferences.
Challenges and Accessibility
While Rising Lords is engaging, it is not without its challenges. New players might find the learning curve steep, particularly in mastering the intricacies of resource management and combat. However, once over this initial hurdle, the game becomes increasingly rewarding.
The game’s interface and tutorials do a commendable job in guiding new players, but there is a clear assumption that players have some familiarity with strategy games. This could be a barrier for complete novices to the genre.
Final Thoughs
Rising Lords is a commendable effort from Argonwood, showcasing a deep understanding of what makes a strategy game engaging and fun. Its unique blend of board game elements, resource management, and tactical combat creates a fresh experience even for seasoned players of the genre.
While it might be daunting for beginners, those who invest the time to understand its mechanics will find a deeply rewarding game full of strategic depth and replayability. Rising Lords doesn’t just rise to the challenge – it carves out a distinct niche in the strategy game landscape, and it does so with style.