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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 receives rave reviews for its clever writing, captivating story, and strong characters, blending history with humor. Critics praise its accessibility for newcomers while still engaging long-time fans, although some note it sticks closely to classic adventure tropes. Overall, it’s hailed as a successful reimagining that resonates with players, solidifying its status as a must-play in the genre.

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 among critics, who uniformly praise its clever writing, engaging narrative, and well-developed characters. GameOver.gr highlights the "high-quality writing" and "timeless characters," emphasizing that the game successfully retains the essence of the original title. Similarly, GameSpew describes the story as "fantastic" and "captivating," labeling it a must-play. The narrative's blend of real-world history, conspiracy theories, and humor is particularly noted by Push Square, who appreciates the unique tone that sets the game apart. Critics such as COGconnected and Eurogamer Germany echo these sentiments, praising the grounded tale and character interactions, making it accessible to newcomers while still appealing to long-time fans. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critiques can be noted, albeit they are minor in comparison to the praise. While most reviewers focus on the strengths of the narrative, there is a lack of detailed criticism regarding potential shortcomings or areas for improvement. Some critics might imply that the story, while engaging, does not stray far from the conventions of adventure narratives, which could leave it feeling familiar to seasoned players. However, this is more of an observation than a significant drawback, as the game’s adherence to classic adventure tropes is often seen as a strength rather than a weakness. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged delivers a compelling and well-crafted story that resonates with both new and returning players. The narrative's blend of humor, intrigue, and historical elements has struck a chord, as noted by multiple reviewers, including Nintendo Life and Pure Nintendo, who commend the character dynamics and pacing. With the majority of critics agreeing that the story is a significant highlight of the game, it stands out as a successful reimagining of a beloved classic, ensuring its place in the hearts of adventure game enthusiasts.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged strikes a winning balance between nostalgia and modern accessibility, impressing critics with its classic point-and-click gameplay and smart quality-of-life enhancements like a hint system and Story Mode. While newcomers can dive in easily thanks to adjustable difficulty, some veterans feel the game may be too simplified, missing features from the Director's Cut and occasionally dragging with its exploration-heavy focus. Overall, it's a solid revival that appeals to both old fans and new players, though not without some caveats.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

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 garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who appreciate the game’s commitment to its classic point-and-click roots while integrating modern enhancements. Reviewers such as GameOver.gr and GameSpew highlight the quality of life improvements, including a hint system and a new Story Mode, which make the game more accessible to newcomers without compromising the core experience that veterans cherish. Critics from Push Square and COGconnected also commend the logical puzzles and straightforward controls, ensuring that both new players and seasoned fans can enjoy the game. The addition of two difficulty modes, as emphasized by RPG Fan, further balances the challenge and accessibility, catering to a wide range of player preferences. However, some critics have pointed out potential drawbacks that may affect the experience for veteran players. Softpedia notes that while the modernized control scheme and hint system make the game more accessible, they may render the experience too easy for those familiar with the original title. Similarly, Cubed3 mentions that the game lacks some features from the Director's Cut, which could disappoint long-time fans seeking a more comprehensive experience. Additionally, Nintendo Life raises concerns about the gameplay becoming tiresome due to its heavy reliance on exploration and dialogue, suggesting that while the writing is strong, it may not be enough to keep all players engaged throughout. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged successfully revitalizes a classic point-and-click adventure for modern audiences. The incorporation of quality of life features, as noted by Impulsegamer and Movies Games and Tech, has made the game more accessible and enjoyable for newcomers, while still offering modes that cater to traditionalists. While some concerns regarding ease and feature omissions exist, the game is generally praised for its balance of nostalgia and innovation, creating a compelling experience for both new players and series veterans.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged dazzles with its stunning 4K visuals and hand-drawn art, winning over critics and nostalgic fans alike. While some note the new graphics can feel cartoonish and certain animations fall short, the remaster largely succeeds in enhancing the game's charm and fidelity, making it a standout tribute to the original.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

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, with critics praising the significant enhancements made in the remaster. GameOver.gr highlights the impressive upgrade to 4K resolution and the hand-drawn art style, which not only surpasses the original's quality but also resonates with players' nostalgic memories. Similarly, GameSpew commends the gorgeous visuals, emphasizing the updated character models and detailed environments that evoke the essence of the original game. Push Square notes the ability to switch between the remastered and original graphics, showcasing a marked improvement in visual fidelity that enhances the gaming experience. Critics across the board, including Impulsegamer and Movies Games and Tech, appreciate the vibrant environments and beautifully animated characters, further solidifying the remaster's visual appeal. Despite the largely favorable reception, some critics have pointed out areas of concern regarding the visual design. Softpedia mentions that while the visuals are sharp and detailed, they may come off as overly cartoonish, which contrasts with the original's more serious tone. Cubed3 echoes this sentiment, suggesting that while the original pixel art retains its charm, the new visuals can feel sterile in certain backgrounds, and character sprites may lack the necessary animation. Eurogamer Germany also notes that while the graphics have improved, some animations and backgrounds do not meet the same high standards as others, indicating that the remaster is not without its shortcomings. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged delivers a visually impressive experience that honors the original while embracing modern aesthetics. The majority of reviewers, including Nintendo Life and RPG Fan, commend the significant graphical updates and the ability to toggle between old and new graphics, allowing players to appreciate the evolution of the art style. While there are some criticisms regarding the cartoonish nature of the visuals and certain design choices, the overall sentiment remains that the remaster successfully enhances the charm and character of the game, making it a worthy addition to the franchise.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The music in Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged is widely praised for its enchanting orchestration and atmospheric quality, enhancing the game’s experience. However, the voice acting suffers from muffled and compressed audio, creating a disappointing contrast with the upgraded visuals. Critics highlight the disconnect between the beautiful soundtrack and the lackluster sound design, undermining the overall audio experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

40%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

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 garnered a generally positive reception among several critics, particularly regarding the soundtrack. GameOver.gr notes that the music retains its "magical and dreamy" quality, while Softpedia describes the soundtrack as "effortless," contributing positively to the overall experience. Impulsegamer emphasizes that the re-recorded soundtrack has been enhanced with higher fidelity, enriching the game's cinematic feel. Critics like COGconnected and Pure Nintendo also praise the orchestral score by Barrington Pheloung, highlighting its ability to complement the adventure and enhance the audio experience, respectively. The music is frequently characterized as gorgeous and smooth, with RPG Fan noting its atmospheric qualities that reflect the game's diverse locations. However, the sound design does face significant criticism, particularly regarding the quality of voice acting. Several reviewers, including Cubed3 and Movies Games and Tech, point out that the voice acting is heavily compressed, muffled, and at times, disappointing compared to the upgraded visuals. GameSpew echoes this sentiment, mentioning that while the audio has been enhanced, the voice recordings can still sound muffled. Nintendo Life also highlights the outdated quality of the voice acting, suggesting that it detracts from the overall audio experience. These critiques indicate a clear disconnect between the high-quality music and the less favorable voice audio. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the music of Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged is largely well-received, with many praising its orchestration and contribution to the game's atmosphere, the sound design, particularly in terms of voice acting quality, falls short. The contrast between the beautifully crafted soundtrack and the muddled voice audio creates a dissonance that some critics, like Cubed3 and Nintendo Life, believe undermines the overall experience. Thus, while the game succeeds in delivering an enchanting musical backdrop, it struggles with sound design elements that could have matched the visual upgrades.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged features nostalgic voice performances praised by critics, especially Rolph Saxon's portrayal of George. However, the remastered audio quality disappoints, with issues like muffled sounds and inconsistent clarity, detracting from the immersive experience. While some appreciate the nostalgic charm, many critics agree the technical execution falls short of expectations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

30%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

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

The voice acting in Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged has garnered some positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding the preservation of the original performances. Critics like Pure Nintendo have highlighted the quality of the voice acting, especially praising Rolph Saxon's portrayal of George, which contributes positively to the overall experience. COGconnected also noted that the voice acting has been enhanced for clarity, allowing characters to display distinct personalities that enrich interactions. This retention of the original voice actors, alongside their performances, has evoked a sense of nostalgia for many players, as mentioned by RPG Fan, who appreciated how the original tracks enhance the storytelling. However, there are significant criticisms regarding the technical aspects of the voice acting. Several reviewers pointed out that the remastered audio quality has not fully met expectations. GameOver.gr observed that while the remastered voice acting shows improvement, it still lacks the polish of the visuals. GameSpew echoed this sentiment, noting that the audio quality remains inconsistent, with some sounds coming across as muffled. Critics like Cubed3 and Movies Games and Tech expressed disappointment over the heavy compression and flat audio quality, which detracts from the immersive experience that the original game provided. Softpedia went further to criticize the dialogues for sounding hollow and artificial, which can severely impact player engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a clear divide between appreciation for the original performances and disappointment in the technical execution of the remastered audio. While some critics, such as Pure Nintendo and RPG Fan, found value in the nostalgia and quality of the performances, others like Cubed3 and Movies Games and Tech highlighted the shortcomings in audio clarity and quality. This inconsistency suggests that while the voice acting retains its charm and iconic status, the remaster has not fully succeeded in delivering an audio experience that matches the expectations set by the original game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged" shines with solid technical performance across PS5, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch, earning praise for smooth gameplay and modern upgrades. Critics laud its polished experience while maintaining the original charm. However, Switch users report longer load times, though many still enjoy the improvements. Overall, the remaster is well-received, marking a successful update to a classic franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

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 largely positive feedback from critics across different gaming platforms. On the PS5, GameSpew highlights that the remaster runs smoothly, preserving the original gameplay experience, which suggests a solid optimization for this platform. For the Xbox Series X, both COGconnected and Eurogamer Germany commend the game for its polished performance and modern interface, noting that refinements have addressed continuity issues and enhanced the overall experience while maintaining the essence of the original title. The Nintendo Switch also receives favorable reviews, with Impulsegamer and Movies Games and Tech praising the updated UI and smooth gameplay across all platforms, as well as quality-of-life improvements that cater to modern gamers. However, there are some criticisms to consider. On the Nintendo Switch, Pure Nintendo points out that the game suffers from long load times, which can detract from the experience, despite the overall technical performance being stable. This is somewhat countered by RPG Fan, who mentions that the game runs smoothly and includes modern conveniences like fast loading times and the ability to skip dialogue. It seems that while some users may experience longer load times, others have had a more favorable experience. On the Xbox Series X, while the performance is generally praised, there are no specific negatives mentioned, indicating a lack of significant issues but also a lack of detailed critique that could provide a more rounded view. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged" delivers very good technical performance across all platforms, with the majority of reviewers expressing satisfaction with the game's smooth operation and enhancements. The positive remarks from GameSpew, COGconnected, and Eurogamer Germany reflect a strong appreciation for the remaster's ability to modernize the experience without losing its core appeal. While some minor issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, were noted, they do not overshadow the overall sentiment that the remaster has been well-executed and is a worthy addition to the franchise.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged is praised for its engaging remaster, appealing to both new and returning players with features like a tailored hint system and 'Classic Mode' that boost replay value. Critics highlight added dialogue and scenes that enrich the narrative. However, some argue the game lacks extras and content from the Director's Cut, potentially limiting replayability for dedicated fans. Overall, while nostalgia and variety shine, concerns about depth and action may leave certain players wanting more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions on the replay value of Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged reveal several positive aspects that highlight its appeal to both new and returning players. Critics such as GameOver.gr emphasize the game's status as a "wonderful remaster," which invites a broad audience to engage with the title, suggesting a high replay value. Push Square notes the tailored hint system and different gameplay modes that enhance replayability, catering to a diverse player base. Similarly, Impulsegamer points out the inclusion of 'Classic Mode' and customizable help options, which further enrich the experience for die-hard fans and newcomers alike. Additionally, Movies Games and Tech highlight the addition of previously unused dialogue and scenes, which adds layers to the narrative and encourages players to revisit the game. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the replay value that suggest limitations for certain players. GameSpew mentions a lack of extras for fans, which could deter some from replaying the game. Cubed3 also points out that the absence of content from the Director's Cut may restrict replayability, indicating that while the game offers modes, it may not fully satisfy those looking for a more comprehensive experience. Softpedia echoes this sentiment by stating that the game may not appeal to players seeking action or quick puzzle-solving, hinting at a potential disconnect for those who prefer a more dynamic gameplay style. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward a positive outlook on the replay value of Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged. While many reviewers, including Eurogamer Germany and Pure Nintendo, recognize the nostalgic experience and the variety of modes as significant factors that enhance replayability, others like GameSpew and Cubed3 caution that the lack of additional content may limit the experience for some players. Ultimately, the game appears to cater well to its core audience, offering enough variety and nostalgia to encourage replay, albeit with some reservations regarding the depth of content available for exploration.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

84%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

16%

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 is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the remaster for its high-quality enhancements and nostalgic value. GameOver.gr highlights the successful blend of nostalgia and modern improvements, while GameSpew emphasizes the updated visuals and audio that make the game appealing to both new players and fans of the original. Push Square lauds it as the best version of the classic, effectively balancing nostalgia with modern accessibility. COGconnected and Eurogamer Germany echo this sentiment, calling it the definitive version and one of the best adventure games available, respectively. Critics across various platforms, including the PS5 and Nintendo Switch, consistently acknowledge the engaging gameplay and visual enhancements that contribute to an enjoyable experience. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics, such as Softpedia and Cubed3, express concerns about certain changes that may not satisfy long-time fans, suggesting a perceived lack of depth compared to the original. Cubed3 specifically points out audio issues and missing content as factors that prevent it from being the definitive version. Similarly, Movies Games and Tech and Nintendo Life mention some outdated elements, indicating that while the remaster preserves much of the original's charm, it does not fully escape the pitfalls of its age. These criticisms suggest that while the remaster is a commendable effort, it may not fully resonate with every segment of the fanbase. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged is a successful remaster that effectively revitalizes a classic game for both new audiences and veterans. The majority of reviewers, such as Pure Nintendo and RPG Fan, commend the game for respecting its legacy while inviting new players into its world. Despite some criticisms regarding audio quality and content omissions, the remaster is largely viewed as a worthwhile experience that enhances the original's appeal. With the majority of critics rating it highly, it is clear that Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged stands as a significant achievement in the realm of video game remasters.

TL;DR

Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged receives largely positive reviews, praised for its nostalgia, visual and audio upgrades, and engaging gameplay. Critics hail it as the best version yet, blending classic charm with modern accessibility. However, some long-time fans express concerns over audio issues and content omissions, indicating it may not satisfy everyone. Overall, it’s seen as a significant remaster that revitalizes a classic for both new players and veterans.

MONSTER

Reviews

43 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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RPG Fan

Nintendo Switch

Dec 2, 2024

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

Broken Sword – Shadow of The Templars: Reforged successfully revitalizes a classic game, making it accessible for new players while retaining its charm for veterans.

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GameSpew

PlayStation 5

Sep 18, 2024

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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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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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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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