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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: Critik 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

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 garnered rave reviews for its clever writing, engaging narrative, and well-developed characters, with critics praising its blend of history and humor. While some note a lack of innovation and suggest it may not satisfy hardcore fans, the overall consensus is that the game offers a compelling story that captivates players and stands out in the adventure genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

100%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (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 received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting its clever writing, engaging narrative, and well-developed characters. GameOver.gr praises the game for maintaining the essence of the original title while showcasing high-quality writing and timeless characters. Similarly, GameSpew describes the story as fantastic and captivating, labeling it a must-play title. The narrative's blend of real-world history and conspiracy theories, as noted by Push Square, adds depth and intrigue, while the humor interspersed throughout the tale keeps the experience light-hearted and enjoyable. Critics like Cubed3 and Impulsegamer commend the well-paced story and charming character dynamics, particularly between George Stobbart and Nico Collard, which enhance the overall narrative experience. Despite the largely favorable reviews, there are some minor criticisms worth noting. While the majority of critics celebrate the narrative's engaging qualities, a few reviews hint at a lack of innovation in the storytelling approach, suggesting that it may not break new ground compared to its predecessors. However, this sentiment is not prevalent, and most critics focus on how the story remains intact and engaging, as mentioned by Softpedia. Additionally, some reviewers, like Eurogamer Germany, point out that while the story serves as a great entry point for newcomers, it may not offer enough complexity for seasoned fans of the series, although this is a subtle critique rather than a significant drawback. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged delivers a compelling narrative that successfully captivates players. The story's combination of historical intrigue, humor, and well-crafted character interactions resonates strongly, making it a standout title in the adventure genre. Critics like Movies Games and Tech and Nintendo Life echo this sentiment, emphasizing the dramatic and adventurous elements that keep players engaged throughout. With the majority of reviewers lauding the story as very good, it is clear that the game's narrative is a significant strength that contributes to its overall appeal.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged strikes a solid balance between classic charm and modern accessibility, winning praise for its user-friendly controls, hint system, and Story mode. Critics highlight how these features make the game welcoming to newcomers, though some seasoned players may find the experience overly simplified and less challenging. Despite concerns over diluted difficulty, the game is seen as a successful update that bridges the gap between veteran fans and a new audience, keeping its essence intact while adapting to today's gaming landscape.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

73%

Mixed (50-79)

27%

Negative (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 generally positive reception among critics, particularly for its accessibility and adherence to classic point-and-click mechanics. Critics like GameOver.gr and Push Square highlight the implementation of quality of life improvements, such as a robust hint system and a new Story mode, which make the game more welcoming for newcomers without sacrificing the essence of the original experience. GameSpew echoes this sentiment, noting that the controls are user-friendly, further enhancing the game's appeal. Additionally, COGconnected emphasizes the logical puzzles and the dual difficulty modes, which cater to both new players and veterans, making the gameplay versatile and engaging. However, some critics have pointed out that these accessibility features may come at a cost, particularly for seasoned players. Softpedia mentions that the modernized gameplay could feel overly simplistic for veterans, suggesting that the balance between accessibility and challenge might not fully satisfy all audiences. Similarly, while Eurogamer Germany appreciates the inclusion of a story mode and hints, they imply that the classic challenge might be diluted for those familiar with the original game. Nintendo Life also notes that while the gameplay is engaging, it can become tiresome due to its reliance on exploration and dialogue, potentially leading to a less dynamic experience 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 making it more accessible to a broader audience. The incorporation of features like the hint system and Story mode has been well-received, as evidenced by critics such as Impulsegamer and Movies Games and Tech, who appreciate the balance struck between challenge and accessibility. Nevertheless, there is a clear acknowledgment that these enhancements may lessen the challenge for veteran players, as noted by critics like Softpedia and Eurogamer Germany. Ultimately, the game appears to be a commendable effort to bridge the gap between old and new players, maintaining its charm while adapting to contemporary gaming expectations.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged impresses with its stunning 4K visuals and hand-drawn art, earning high praise for enhancing nostalgia while appealing to newcomers. Critics lauded the toggle feature between original and remastered graphics, but some noted that certain visuals felt too cartoonish or lacked the original’s tone. Despite a few shortcomings in animation and background detail, the remaster is largely celebrated as a successful modernization of a classic game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

73%

Mixed (50-79)

27%

Negative (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, such as GameOver.gr and GameSpew, praised the significant upgrades to 4K resolution and the hand-drawn art style, noting that these enhancements not only surpassed the original's quality but also aligned well with players' nostalgic memories. Push Square highlighted the ability to switch between the remastered visuals and the original graphics, showcasing a massive improvement in visual fidelity that appealed to both new players and veterans alike. Critics like Impulsegamer and Movies Games and Tech emphasized the vibrant environments and beautifully animated characters, drawing comparisons to classic Disney animations, which further enhances the visual experience. However, not all feedback was entirely positive. Some critics pointed out that certain aspects of the new visuals felt overly cartoonish or lacked the serious tone of the original game. Softpedia mentioned that while the visuals are sharp and detailed, they might not resonate with players who preferred the original's aesthetic. Additionally, Cubed3 noted that while players could toggle between original pixel art and newly redrawn visuals, some backgrounds appeared sterile, and character sprites lacked sufficient animation. Eurogamer Germany echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that while the graphics were polished, some animations and backgrounds did not meet the high standards set by the rest of the remaster. Despite the criticisms, the overall consensus is that Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged delivers a visually impressive experience that successfully balances nostalgia with modern aesthetics. The majority of critics, including Nintendo Life and Pure Nintendo, appreciated the complete overhaul of graphics while maintaining the original spirit of the game. The ability to switch between original and updated graphics was a particular highlight, allowing players to enjoy the game in a way that suits their preferences. Overall, the remaster has been well-received, with critics celebrating its visual design as a worthy update to a classic title.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged boasts a stunning orchestral soundtrack praised for enhancing the game's cinematic feel, but the voice acting fails to match this quality, suffering from muffled and outdated recordings. Critics appreciate the musical improvements but note that the inconsistent audio quality creates a jarring experience, highlighting a mixed bag in the overall sound design.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

44%

Mixed (50-79)

56%

Negative (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 mix of praise from various critics, particularly for the quality and enhancement of the soundtrack. Critics like Impulsegamer and Movies Games and Tech have emphasized the beautifully orchestrated score, noting that it contributes significantly to the cinematic feel of the game. Impulsegamer specifically highlights the re-recorded soundtrack as a major improvement, enriching the overall experience. Similarly, Softpedia describes the soundtrack as effortless, while COGconnected appreciates the cozy ambiance it creates, enhancing the adventure. Even GameOver.gr acknowledges the "magical and dreamy" quality of the music, suggesting that it remains a strong point in the game's audio landscape. However, despite the accolades for the music, several reviewers have pointed out significant drawbacks in the sound design, particularly concerning the voice acting. Critics such as Cubed3 and Movies Games and Tech have noted that the voice recordings often come across as muffled and muddy, which detracts from the overall experience, especially when juxtaposed with the upgraded visuals. GameSpew also mentions that while the audio has seen enhancements, the muffled quality of the voice recordings remains a slight drawback. Nintendo Life echoes this sentiment, stating that the outdated quality of the voice acting negatively impacts the overall audio experience. This inconsistency between the high-quality music and the subpar voice acting has been a recurring theme across multiple reviews. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the soundtrack of Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged is a standout feature that enhances the game's atmosphere, the sound design, particularly the voice acting, suffers from noticeable quality issues. The disparity between the beautifully orchestrated music and the muffled voice recordings creates a jarring experience for players, as noted by critics like Cubed3 and Nintendo Life. Ultimately, the game presents a mixed audio experience, where the enchanting music elevates the gameplay, but the shortcomings in voice quality leave room for improvement.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

"Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged" features praised original voice performances, especially Rolph Saxon's portrayal of George, which enhances character interactions. However, critics condemn the remastered audio quality as muffled, flat, and artificial, undermining immersion and leaving a mixed reception. While the charm of the original is intact, the technical shortcomings overshadow the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

22%

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

11%

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 recognition from critics, particularly for its retention of the original performances. Pure Nintendo highlights Rolph Saxon's portrayal of George as a standout, contributing positively to the overall experience. Additionally, COGconnected appreciates the enhancement of voice clarity, noting that characters exhibit distinct personalities that enrich player interactions. GameOver.gr also acknowledges that the remastered voice acting has seen improvements, suggesting that there is a foundation of quality that enhances the game’s narrative. However, several criticisms arise regarding the audio quality of the voice acting. GameSpew points out that while the performances remain iconic, the audio quality suffers from muffled sounds due to incomplete re-recording. This sentiment is echoed by Cubed3, who laments the heavy compression and muffled quality of the voice acting, which detracts from the overall audio experience. Softpedia goes further, criticizing the dialogues for sounding hollow and artificial, which undermines immersion. Critics like Movies Games and Tech and Nintendo Life also express disappointment in the audio clarity, describing it as flat and crackly, making the experience feel outdated. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception for the voice acting in "Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged." While the original performances are largely praised and some enhancements are noted, the remastered audio quality has left many feeling underwhelmed. Critics like Impulsegamer and GameOver.gr recognize the charm of the original voice actors but highlight the distracting issues with audio clarity. The general sentiment suggests that while the voice acting retains its charm and character, the technical execution in the remaster has not fully met expectations, leading to a somewhat diminished experience for players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged impresses critics with smooth technical performance across PS5, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch, enhancing the original while introducing modern refinements. While the Switch version faces criticism for long load times, overall feedback is overwhelmingly positive, making it a solid remaster for both newcomers and fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

83%

Mixed (50-79)

17%

Negative (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 various gaming platforms. On the PS5, GameSpew praised the remaster for running smoothly and preserving the original gameplay experience, indicating a seamless transition to modern hardware. For the Xbox Series X, both COGconnected and Eurogamer Germany highlighted the game's refinements and smooth performance, with Eurogamer noting the modern interface that enhances the overall experience while maintaining the essence of the original title. Meanwhile, on the Nintendo Switch, Impulsegamer remarked on the updated UI designed for modern gamers, while Movies Games and Tech echoed this sentiment by stating that the game runs smoothly across all platforms, emphasizing quality-of-life improvements that elevate user experience. Despite the overall positive sentiment, some criticisms were noted, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. Pure Nintendo pointed out the presence of long load times, which could detract from the experience, although they acknowledged that stable technical performance and autosave features help alleviate frustration during challenging puzzles. While the PS5 and Xbox Series X versions received no significant complaints, the Switch's performance issues, specifically the load times, could impact players who prioritize quick gameplay sessions. However, the Switch's interface was still deemed effective for modern audiences, suggesting that the positives may outweigh the negatives. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged delivers a commendable technical performance across all platforms, with the majority of reviewers emphasizing the game's smoothness and thoughtful refinements. The positive remarks from GameSpew, COGconnected, and Eurogamer Germany highlight a successful remaster that respects the original while improving the user experience. Although some issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, were noted, the general sentiment remains that the technical performance is very good, making this remaster a worthwhile experience for both new players and fans of the classic title.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics largely praise Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged for its high replay value, thanks to features like a tailored hint system and 'Classic Mode' that appeal to both veterans and newcomers. However, some caution that the lack of extra content and the absence of Director's Cut elements may disappoint players seeking more depth, potentially limiting its replayability. Overall, it’s a solid experience but not without its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

56%

Mixed (50-79)

44%

Negative (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 largely positive among critics. GameOver.gr highlights the remaster's ability to attract both long-time fans and newcomers, suggesting a high replay value. Similarly, Push Square notes that the tailored hint system and various modes enhance replayability, making it appealing for different types of players. Impulsegamer also emphasizes the inclusion of 'Classic Mode' and customizable help options, which cater to both die-hard fans and new players. Additionally, Movies Games and Tech praises the addition of previously unused dialogue and scenes, further enriching the experience and encouraging players to revisit the game. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the replay value. GameSpew points out that the lack of extras for fans may limit replayability for some players, indicating that those seeking additional content might be disappointed. Softpedia echoes this sentiment, suggesting that players looking for action or quick puzzle-solving may find the game lacking in replay value. Cubed3 also raises concerns about the absence of content from the Director's Cut, which could deter some players from revisiting the game after their initial playthrough. In summary, while the consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of the replay value in Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged, there are significant caveats. Critics like Eurogamer Germany and Pure Nintendo highlight the nostalgic and varied experiences available, while others like GameSpew and Softpedia caution that the lack of additional content may limit replayability for certain audiences. Overall, the game seems to offer a rich experience for many, but its replay value could be diminished for those expecting more depth or extra features.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

83%

Mixed (50-79)

17%

Negative (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding "Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged" is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the remaster for its ability to blend nostalgia with modern enhancements. GameOver.gr highlights the high-quality nature of the remaster, emphasizing how it successfully evokes nostalgia while appealing to new audiences. Similarly, GameSpew notes the updated visuals and audio, which make the game attractive to both newcomers and fans of the original. Push Square goes so far as to label it the best version of the classic game, commending its balance of nostalgia and modern improvements. Critics like COGconnected and Eurogamer Germany also laud the game as the definitive version, emphasizing that it enhances every aspect while retaining the charm of the original. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics express concerns regarding certain changes made in the remaster that may not sit well with long-time fans. Softpedia points out that while the remaster is well-executed, it may lack the depth that the original offered, potentially leaving some veteran players wanting more. Cubed3 also mentions audio issues and missing content, suggesting that these shortcomings prevent it from being the definitive version. Despite these critiques, the majority still find the experience enjoyable, albeit with some reservations. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that "Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged" is a commendable remaster that successfully revitalizes a classic for modern audiences. While some criticisms regarding depth and audio quality exist, the overwhelming majority, including reviewers from GameOver.gr, GameSpew, and Nintendo Life, agree that the game is both engaging and visually appealing. The remaster is recommended for its nostalgic charm and modern enhancements, making it a worthwhile experience for both new players and fans of the original.

TL;DR

"Broken Sword - Shadow of the Templars: Reforged" is a largely praised remaster that effectively combines nostalgia with modern upgrades, appealing to both new players and longtime fans. Critics celebrate its visuals and audio enhancements, with many calling it the best version yet. However, some concerns about depth, audio issues, and missing content remain, leaving a few veteran players wanting. Overall, it's recommended for its engaging experience and nostalgic charm, despite minor flaws.

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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