The Valiant

Full disclosure: This was the first RTS-style game I ever played and I only played the single-player campaign, utilizing the tactical pause from chapter 3 onwards. Also, I just played the Steam version. Short assessment: I guess, if you're a 'hardcore' fan of RTS this game might not be for you. If you're like me and you mostly play games in general for their story and characters and also like to try different genres from time to time, then The Valiant might be up your alley. The story - while not being mind-blowing - is quite servicable and nicely told. It ties together the overall 16 campaign chapters quite fittingly, leads you to various places and gives each mission a narrative background. The voice acting is really good and the voices fit their respective characters well and all actors really bring their roles to life. Speaking of characters: I liked those quite a bit. Of course I didn't expect to get to know all that much about them in a game like this, but at least they actually have some personality. The gameplay was enjoyable enough for me, though I can see how it might get boring if you're playing the game continuously (I finished 2 missions on a given day at most). Also, admittetly the in-game tutorial didn't do the best job (for me) to teach me all the game mechanics. The tactial pause on the other hand was invaluable and also gave me the time I needed to figure things out on my own. Conclusion: I think The Valiant makes for a great 'introduction' to the RTS genre with a nice story, varied characters and pretty fun gameplay that's comparatively light on the strategic part (as far as I'm able to tell). Pros + great voice acting + good soundtrack + interesting setting + interesting characters + varied environments Neutral | servicable story (nothing you haven't seen, and it also gets a bit tacky, but it's enjoyable enough) | gameplay was fun overall, but could have changed it up a bit more often, maybe Cons - (none really, from my point of view)

For anyone new to the whole RTS genre this game is for you. The tutorial, how it feels and how it works really introduces well to any new players looking to go into RTS or wishing to try it out. I would say even hardcore RTS people would enjoy this too but more casual friendly.

The story is engaging and the characters are interesting. The graphics are good and the gameplay is interesting!

Mediocre story, mediocre game system, mediocre graphics, music... I want to like this game, but is boring and I really like games with knights.. Shame...