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Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged
Item: Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Indie, Third Person Perspective, Side View Perspective, Puzzle and Logic, Point & Click, Casual, Mystery, Single Player

AvailableSep 19, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PlayStation 4

DeveloperRevolution Software

Overview

The classic multi-award winning adventure "Broken Sword - the Shadow of the Templars" returns with glorious 4K visuals and iconic remastered audio, pitching intrepid American George Stobbart and fearless journalist Nico Collard into a journey of perilous adventures and ancient conspiracies.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged has received rave reviews for its sharp writing and captivating narrative, featuring beloved characters George Stobbart and Nico Collard. Critics praise its blend of real history and conspiracy, though some note it leans on familiar tropes. Despite this, the game excels in character dynamics and humor, making it a standout for both newcomers and loyal fans. Overall, it’s a compelling, well-crafted adventure that successfully honors the original while delivering an engaging experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged has garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who have praised its clever writing, engaging narrative, and well-developed characters. GameOver.gr highlights the high-quality writing and timeless characters that maintain the essence of the original title, while GameSpew describes the story as fantastic and captivating, making it a must-play. The narrative, which follows George Stobbart and journalist Nico Collard as they investigate a terrorist attack in Paris, is noted for its blend of real-world history and conspiracy theories, as emphasized by Push Square. Critics like Cubed3 and Movies Games and Tech appreciate the pacing and character dynamics, particularly the charming interactions between George and Nico, which add depth to the storyline. Despite the overall positive reception, some critiques can be found regarding the story's familiarity and reliance on established tropes. While many reviewers celebrate the engaging nature of the narrative, a few may perceive it as derivative of classic adventure tales, lacking in innovative twists. However, this sentiment is not widespread, as most critics focus on the execution of the story rather than its originality. Eurogamer Germany mentions that the narrative serves as a great entry point for newcomers, suggesting that while the story may not break new ground, it effectively fulfills its purpose of engaging players. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged offers a compelling and well-crafted story. The blend of humor, historical intrigue, and engaging character interactions has resonated well with players, as noted by Impulsegamer and Nintendo Life. Overall, the game is celebrated for its ability to maintain the charm of the original while providing an accessible and enjoyable experience for both new and returning fans of the series.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged impresses with quality-of-life upgrades that cater to both newcomers and veterans, including a hint system and Story Mode praised by critics. Reviews highlight user-friendly controls and logical puzzles that enhance accessibility without sacrificing challenge. However, concerns arise over the potential for reduced difficulty for seasoned players and the exclusion of some features from the Director's Cut. While the reliance on dialogue and exploration may bore some, the game is largely celebrated for modernizing a classic while retaining its charm, striking a balance that appeals to both new and returning fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged has received a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting several quality-of-life improvements that enhance the experience for both new and veteran players. Reviewers such as GameOver.gr and Softpedia praised the introduction of a hint system and a new Story Mode, which make the game more accessible to newcomers while still retaining the core essence of the classic point-and-click genre. GameSpew and Push Square noted that the controls are user-friendly and that the gameplay remains true to its roots, featuring straightforward puzzles that cater to a broad audience. Additionally, COGconnected emphasized the logical nature of the puzzles and the dual difficulty modes, further enhancing accessibility without sacrificing the challenge for experienced players. However, some critics pointed out potential drawbacks to the gameplay experience. Softpedia mentioned that while the new features make the game more accessible, they might render it too easy for veteran players who are accustomed to the original's challenges. Similarly, Cubed3 noted that the game lacks certain features from the Director's Cut, which may disappoint fans seeking a more comprehensive experience. Nintendo Life also raised concerns about the gameplay becoming tiresome, despite the engaging quality of the writing, indicating that the reliance on dialogue and exploration could detract from the overall enjoyment for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged successfully modernizes the classic point-and-click experience while maintaining its charm. The incorporation of accessibility features like the hint system and Story Mode has been widely appreciated, as reflected in the reviews from GameOver.gr and Impulsegamer. While there are some concerns regarding the ease of gameplay for veterans and the absence of certain elements from previous iterations, the game is generally viewed as a commendable effort to attract a new generation of players while satisfying long-time fans. The balance between classic mechanics and modern enhancements appears to resonate well with the majority of reviewers, making it a noteworthy title in the genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged has garnered strong praise for its stunning 4K visuals and nostalgic hand-drawn art, elevating the game while respecting its roots. Critics celebrate the vibrant aesthetics but some note that certain visuals appear overly cartoonish or lack warmth. Overall, it’s seen as a successful remaster that breathes new life into a classic, despite minor design critiques.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged is overwhelmingly positive among critics. Many reviewers, including GameOver.gr and GameSpew, highlight the significant upgrades to 4K resolution and hand-drawn art, which not only surpass the original's quality but also evoke a sense of nostalgia for players. Push Square notes the impressive visual fidelity that allows players to toggle between the remastered graphics and the original, showcasing the substantial improvements made. Critics like COGconnected and Movies Games and Tech emphasize the modernized aesthetics and vibrant environments, which enhance the overall visual experience and charm of the game. The consensus is clear: the remaster has successfully elevated the visual presentation while retaining the essence of the original. However, not all opinions are entirely positive. Some critics, such as Softpedia and Cubed3, express concerns regarding the new visuals, describing them as overly cartoonish or sterile in certain areas. Cubed3 specifically mentions that while the original pixel art retains its charm, the new backgrounds sometimes lack the warmth and detail expected from a remaster. Eurogamer Germany also points out that while the graphics are polished, some animations and backgrounds may not meet the high standards set by the rest of the game. These critiques indicate that while the remaster has made significant strides, there are still aspects of the visual design that may not resonate with all players. In conclusion, the overall consensus among critics is that Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged offers a commendable visual upgrade that enhances the game's appeal while honoring its legacy. The majority of reviewers, including Nintendo Life and Impulsegamer, appreciate the vibrant and colorful new art style, which fits well within the high-definition framework of modern consoles. Despite some criticisms regarding certain design choices and the balance between the new and original visuals, the remaster is largely viewed as a successful endeavor that revitalizes a classic title for a new generation of gamers.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged delivers a stunning orchestral soundtrack praised for its cinematic quality, enhancing the game's atmosphere. However, the voice acting suffers from muffled and compressed recordings, creating an inconsistency that detracts from the overall experience. Critics agree the music shines, but significant improvements to the sound design, especially in voice quality, are necessary to align with the game's upgraded visuals.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

44%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged have received a generally positive reception from critics, particularly regarding the soundtrack. Reviewers like Impulsegamer and Movies Games and Tech praised the orchestral score, noting its high fidelity and cinematic feel, which enhances the overall gaming experience. The music is described as magical, dreamy, and beautifully orchestrated, with critics like Softpedia and COGconnected emphasizing how the soundtrack complements the adventure and contributes positively to the immersive atmosphere of the game. The re-recorded soundtrack has been highlighted as a significant improvement, adding depth and richness to the audio landscape. However, the critiques also point to notable shortcomings in the sound design, particularly concerning the voice acting. Multiple reviewers, including GameOver.gr and Cubed3, expressed concerns about the quality of the voice recordings, describing them as muffled and compressed, which detracts from the overall experience. Nintendo Life echoed this sentiment, stating that the outdated quality of the voice acting negatively impacts the audio experience, especially when juxtaposed with the high-definition visuals. This inconsistency between the music and voice audio was a common theme across several reviews, indicating a significant area for improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the music in Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged is a standout feature, elevating the game's atmosphere and experience, the sound design, particularly the voice acting, suffers from quality issues that hinder the overall impact. Critics like GameSpew and Movies Games and Tech noted that despite enhancements to the audio, the muffled quality of the voice acting remains a drawback. This duality in the audio experience suggests that while the game successfully revitalizes its musical elements, it still has room for improvement in sound design to match the upgraded visuals.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged features nostalgic voice acting, especially praised for Rolph Saxon's George, but suffers from audio quality issues like muffled sounds and heavy compression. Critics are divided: while some celebrate the retention of iconic performances, many express disappointment in the execution, resulting in a mixed reception where nostalgia clashes with technical shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting of Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged has garnered some positive feedback from critics, particularly for its nostalgic value and the retention of original performances. Critics like Pure Nintendo highlight the quality of the voice acting, especially praising Rolph Saxon's portrayal of George, which contributes positively to the overall experience. COGconnected also notes that the voice acting has been preserved and enhanced for clarity, allowing characters to display distinct personalities that enrich the interactions within the game. This indicates that while there are improvements, the essence of the original performances remains intact, providing a sense of familiarity for fans of the series. However, several reviewers have pointed out significant shortcomings in the remastered voice acting. GameOver.gr mentions that while there have been improvements, the voice acting still feels less polished compared to the visuals. GameSpew echoes this sentiment, noting that although the voice acting remains iconic, the audio quality has not been fully re-recorded, resulting in some muffled sounds. Critics from Cubed3 and Movies Games and Tech express disappointment over the heavy compression and muffled quality of the voice acting, which detracts from the overall audio experience. Softpedia goes further by criticizing the dialogues for sounding hollow and artificial, which significantly impacts immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a mixed reception for the voice acting in Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged. While some appreciate the retention of iconic performances and the enhancements made for clarity, many others feel that the audio quality issues, such as muffled sounds and a lack of polish, hinder the experience. Critics like Impulsegamer and Nintendo Life emphasize that while the charm of the original voice actors is maintained, the remastered audio does not meet expectations, leaving a sense of nostalgia tinged with disappointment. The feedback indicates that while the voice acting retains its charm, the execution in the remaster leaves much to be desired, resulting in a polarized reception among players and critics alike.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged" impresses with smooth performance across PS5, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch, earning positive reviews for its polished gameplay and quality-of-life updates. However, the Switch version faces criticism for long load times, hinting at areas for improvement. Overall, the remaster effectively combines modern enhancements with the original's charm, earning it a strong reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of "Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged" has garnered generally positive feedback across various gaming platforms. On the PS5, GameSpew highlights that the remaster runs smoothly, preserving the integrity of the original gameplay experience. This sentiment is echoed by critics on the Xbox Series X, where both COGconnected and Eurogamer Germany commend the game for its polished performance and refined continuity, enhancing the overall experience while maintaining the essence of the original title. The Nintendo Switch also receives praise, with Impulsegamer noting that the updated UI is well-suited for modern consoles, and Movies Games and Tech affirming that the game runs smoothly across all platforms, bolstered by quality-of-life improvements. Despite the overall positive sentiment, some criticisms do arise, particularly for the Nintendo Switch. Pure Nintendo points out that while the technical performance is stable, the game suffers from long load times, which can be frustrating, especially during challenging puzzles. This indicates that while the gameplay experience is designed with modern gamers in mind, there are still areas for improvement. On the Xbox Series X, while the performance is generally praised, there is a lack of specific criticisms mentioned, suggesting that while the experience is smooth, it may not be without minor issues that could affect some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged" delivers a commendable technical performance across all platforms. The majority of reviewers, including GameSpew and Movies Games and Tech, agree that the game runs smoothly and incorporates beneficial updates that enhance the user experience. While there are some noted issues, particularly with load times on the Nintendo Switch, the general outlook remains very positive, indicating that the remaster successfully balances modern enhancements with the charm of the original game.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged" boasts strong replay value thanks to its remastering and diverse gameplay modes, appealing to both old fans and newcomers. However, some critics point out the lack of extra content and niche appeal may limit its longevity and satisfy die-hard fans. Overall, it's a solid experience but with notable limitations that could deter multiple playthroughs.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of "Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged" is predominantly positive among critics. GameOver.gr highlights the game's ability to attract both old fans and new players, suggesting a high replay value due to its wonderful remastering. Similarly, Push Square notes that the tailored hint system and different modes enhance replayability, making it accessible for both newcomers and returning fans. Critics like Impulsegamer and Movies Games and Tech also emphasize the inclusion of various modes, such as Classic Mode and Story Mode, along with previously unused dialogue and scenes, which collectively contribute to a richer gaming experience and encourage players to revisit the title. However, there are notable concerns regarding the replay value that some critics have pointed out. GameSpew expresses that the lack of extras may limit replay value for certain players, suggesting that fans might find the experience lacking in additional content. Softpedia also mentions that the game may not appeal to those looking for action or quick puzzle-solving, indicating a more niche appeal that could deter some players from replaying. Furthermore, Cubed3 notes that the absence of content from the Director's Cut could limit replay value, suggesting that while the remaster is well-executed, it may not fully satisfy die-hard fans seeking more comprehensive content. In summary, while the majority of critics recognize the replay value of "Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged" as commendable, particularly for its nostalgic elements and the inclusion of various gameplay modes, there are valid criticisms regarding the lack of additional content and the specific appeal of the game. The consensus suggests that while many players will find enough to enjoy and revisit, some may feel that the game does not offer enough variety or extras to warrant multiple playthroughs. Overall, the game seems to cater well to both new players and returning fans, albeit with some limitations that could affect its longevity in the gaming community.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding "Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged" from various critics is predominantly positive, with many praising its successful modernization of a classic title. Critics like GameOver.gr and GameSpew highlight the remaster's ability to evoke nostalgia while simultaneously enhancing the experience for new players through updated visuals and audio. Push Square also echoes this sentiment, calling it the best version of the classic game, effectively balancing nostalgia with modern improvements. The consensus among critics is that the remaster is not just a simple port but a well-executed adaptation that makes the game accessible and enjoyable for both veterans and newcomers alike. However, some criticisms do arise, particularly from long-time fans of the original game. Softpedia points out that while the remaster is well-executed, it may not fully satisfy those who cherished the depth of the original title, suggesting that some changes have diluted the experience. Cubed3 also notes that the remaster misses the opportunity to be the definitive version due to audio issues and missing content. These critiques indicate that while the remaster is generally well-received, it may not fully resonate with all fans of the original game, particularly those who hold it in high regard. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged" is a commendable remaster that successfully revitalizes a beloved classic while appealing to a new audience. Critics like COGconnected and Eurogamer Germany laud it as the definitive version, enhancing every aspect while retaining the charm of the original. Despite some criticisms regarding depth and audio quality, the majority agree that the remaster is a worthwhile experience, making it a top choice for graphic adventure fans, as noted by Pure Nintendo. The positive reception indicates a strong appreciation for the efforts made to modernize the game while respecting its legacy.

TL;DR

"Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged" is a well-received remaster that successfully modernizes a classic, balancing nostalgia with updated visuals and audio. Critics praise it as the best version yet, enhancing accessibility for both veterans and newcomers. However, some long-time fans feel it lacks the depth of the original, citing audio issues and missing content. Overall, it’s a commendable adaptation celebrated for revitalizing a beloved game while respecting its legacy.

MONSTER

Reviews

41 reviews found

100

Pure Nintendo

Nintendo Switch

Nov 8, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Broken Sword – Shadow of the Templars: Reforged is an outstanding game that respects its legacy while inviting new players, making it a top choice for graphic adventure fans.

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GameOver.gr

PlayStation 5

Oct 16, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged is a high-quality remaster that successfully brings back nostalgia while enhancing the experience for new audiences.

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Push Square

PlayStation 5

Sep 19, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Broken Sword: Shadow of the Templars: Reforged is hailed as the best version of the classic game, balancing nostalgia with modern improvements, making it accessible and enjoyable for all.

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Movies Games and Tech

Nintendo Switch

Nov 20, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite some audio issues, Broken Sword – Shadow of the Templars: Reforged is recommended for its visual enhancements, engaging gameplay, and nostalgic charm, making it worthwhile for both new players and fans of the original.

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GameSpew

PlayStation 5

Sep 18, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Broken Sword – Shadow of the Templars: Reforged successfully brings a classic game to new platforms with updated visuals and audio, making it appealing to both new players and fans of the original.

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COGconnected

Xbox Series X

Sep 23, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Broken Sword – Shadow of the Templars: Reforged is deemed the definitive version of the classic, enhancing every aspect and making it accessible to a new audience.

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Eurogamer Germany

Xbox Series X

Sep 24, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Reforged Edition is praised as one of the best adventure games available, successfully modernizing a classic without losing its charm. Highly recommended for both veterans and newcomers.

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Nintendo Life

Nintendo Switch

Nov 7, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite some outdated elements, the remaster does a great job of preserving the original's appeal, looking fabulous and delivering a nostalgic experience that remains enjoyable.

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Softpedia

PlayStation 5

Oct 7, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

While the remaster is well-executed, it may not satisfy long-time fans due to changes and a perceived lack of depth compared to the original.

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Impulsegamer

Nintendo Switch

Nov 8, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Broken Sword - Shadows of the Templar: Reforged successfully revitalizes a classic point and click adventure, making it enjoyable for both new players and fans of the original.

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