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Jagged Alliance 3

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Jagged Alliance 3
Item: Jagged Alliance 3
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAction, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Strategy, Military and Warfare, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableJul 14, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperHaemimont Games

Overview

The country of Grand Chien is thrown into chaos when the elected president goes missing and the paramilitary force known as "the Legion" seizes control. Hire mercenaries, meet interesting characters, and fight in tactically deep turn-based combat in this true successor to a beloved franchise.

Elsewhere

8.5

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Jagged Alliance 3's narrative, set against a backdrop of political turmoil in Grand Chien, shows promise with morally ambiguous choices and amusing references to classic action films. However, most critics slam its juvenile writing, reliance on racial stereotypes, and predictable plot, which undermine its potential. While some enjoy the comedic elements, the overall execution leaves much to be desired, making the story a weak point in an otherwise engaging gameplay experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

49%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Jagged Alliance 3 has garnered a mix of opinions from various critics, with some praising its engaging elements. Critics like Everyeye.it and CGMagazine highlight the narrative's potential, noting the inclusion of morally ambiguous choices and character interactions that can affect gameplay. The setting in the fictional country of Grand Chien, with its backdrop of political turmoil and the kidnapping of the president, provides a framework for players to navigate through a series of missions. Additionally, RPG Fan mentions espionage and intrigue elements, while several critics, such as PC Gamer and GamingBolt, appreciate the humorous and over-the-top tone reminiscent of classic action movies, which adds a layer of entertainment to the experience. However, the majority of reviewers have pointed out significant flaws in the story's execution. Critics like TRG and TechRadar Gaming express concerns about the juvenile writing and the presence of racial stereotypes, which detract from the overall experience. Many reviews, including those from COGconnected and VideoGamer, describe the narrative as predictable and lacking depth, often serving merely as a backdrop for gameplay rather than a compelling story in its own right. Critics such as IGN and GameStar echo this sentiment, noting that while the plot may be straightforward, it fails to offer any real surprises or emotional engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Jagged Alliance 3 presents an interesting premise set in a politically charged environment, it ultimately falls short in delivering a well-crafted narrative. The criticisms regarding immature writing and reliance on stereotypes overshadow the potential for a more nuanced story, as highlighted by reviewers like Gamereactor UK and PC Games. Although some critics, like Impulsegamer, find merit in the bombastic characters and comedic elements, the prevailing sentiment suggests that the narrative lacks the depth and sophistication needed to elevate the gaming experience. As a result, while the game may entertain with its gameplay mechanics, the story remains a significant area of concern for many players and critics alike.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Jagged Alliance 3 is praised for its engaging turn-based combat, strategic depth, and intricate mechanics like resource management and character abilities. Critics highlight the unique combat systems and personalized mercenary management, enriching the tactical experience. However, it faces criticism for a steep learning curve, frustrating controls, and lack of clear hit indicators, which may deter newcomers. Overall, it's deemed a worthy addition to the genre, rewarding players who invest the time to master its complexities.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Jagged Alliance 3 has garnered a largely positive reception among critics, who praise its engaging turn-based combat and strategic depth. Many reviewers highlight the game's intricate mechanics, such as resource management, squad dynamics, and character abilities, which contribute to a rich tactical experience. For instance, CD-Action notes the blend of strategic management and RPG elements, while TRG appreciates the tense combat and varied environments that enhance the overall gameplay. Critics like COGconnected and PC Gamer commend the unique combat mechanics, including the action point system and the emphasis on positioning and cover, which add layers of strategy to battles. The game's ability to allow players to hire and manage a diverse group of mercenaries, as highlighted by Xbox Tavern and TheXboxHub, further enriches the experience, making each player's approach feel personalized and impactful. However, despite the acclaim, several critics point out notable drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. A consistent theme among reviews is the steep learning curve associated with the game, which can be daunting for newcomers. XboxAddict and PlayStation Country both mention the unforgiving mechanics, such as permanent death for mercenaries and the complexities of strategic planning under a real-time clock. Additionally, issues with controls and targeting mechanics were cited by Gamepressure and IGN Portugal, with some critics expressing frustration over the outdated user interface and sluggish inventory scrolling, which can hinder the fluidity of gameplay. The lack of clear hit probability indicators, as noted by Xbox Tavern and GameGrin, also contributes to player frustration, particularly in high-stakes combat scenarios. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Jagged Alliance 3 presents a rewarding and complex tactical experience, it is not without its challenges. The majority of reviewers, including Eurogamer Germany and GamesHub, agree that the game offers a solid foundation for turn-based strategy enthusiasts, with engaging mechanics that encourage thoughtful planning and execution. However, the steep learning curve and control issues may pose barriers for some players. Despite these concerns, the game is viewed as a worthy addition to the genre, with many critics expressing confidence that players who invest the time to master its systems will find a deeply satisfying and enjoyable experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Jagged Alliance 3 dazzles with rich, atmospheric visuals and diverse environments, earning praise for its detailed maps and character models. Critics applaud its strategic design, offering immersive tactical gameplay. However, the console versions, particularly on PS5, fall short in visual fidelity and performance compared to PC, with a cluttered UI also criticized for hampering the experience. While the game's aesthetics shine, a consensus emerges for crucial improvements in cross-platform consistency and interface design to meet modern gaming expectations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

32%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Jagged Alliance 3 have received a mix of praise, particularly for their rich environments and atmospheric design. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Shacknews highlight the game's stunning visuals and well-crafted maps, noting the diversity of settings from swamps to urban areas that enhance the tactical gameplay experience. The game is recognized for its detailed environments, with Everyeye.it commending the high level of visual fidelity, including destructible elements and well-designed character models. Additionally, the strategic map design, as mentioned by Push Square and IGN, is celebrated for its impressive scale, featuring over 100 tiles with custom 3D battle maps that contribute to the overall visual appeal. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the graphics, particularly when comparing the console versions to the PC version. Reviewers such as Impulsegamer and Merlin'in Kazanı point out that the PS5 version lacks the visual fidelity of the PC counterpart, with performance drops and a less optimized user interface being common complaints. Critics like Eurogamer Germany and XboxAddict express that while the graphics are visually appealing, they do not reach the same level as the PC version, with some artifacts and minor glitches noted. Additionally, the UI has been criticized for being cluttered and not well-optimized for smaller screens, as highlighted by PlayStation Country, which can detract from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Jagged Alliance 3 boasts impressive visuals and a rich variety of environments, it struggles with consistency across platforms and some outdated design elements. The game effectively captures the essence of tactical gameplay through its visual design, as noted by critics like TechRadar Gaming and TRG, but it also suffers from performance issues and a user interface that could benefit from refinement. As a result, while many reviewers appreciate the aesthetic and detail, there is a clear call for improvements, particularly in the console versions and UI design, to better align with modern gaming standards.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics largely praise Jagged Alliance 3 for its standout voice acting and immersive music, enhancing character interactions and atmosphere. However, concerns about repetitive sound design and inconsistent writing, including some inappropriate humor, suggest room for improvement. Overall, the audio experience is engaging but flawed, earning a mixed yet generally favorable reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Jagged Alliance 3 have received a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's well-executed audio elements. Reviewers such as Merlin'in Kazanı and TheXboxHub praise the quality of the voice acting, noting that it adds depth and immersion to character interactions. Critics like Games.cz and PC Gamer emphasize the excellent voice performances, which help players connect with the characters. Additionally, the music has been described as enhancing the atmosphere of the game, with unique tracks for different maps, as noted by Merlin'in Kazanı. The incorporation of African-inspired melodies, as mentioned by RPG Fan and Impulsegamer, further contributes to the game's immersive experience, evoking a sense of setting reminiscent of late 90s action films. However, not all feedback is positive. Some critics have pointed out issues with repetitiveness in the sound design. COGconnected and Siliconera express concerns about the unit barks becoming tiresome over time, suggesting that the audio can detract from the experience if played at high volumes. Eurogamer Germany raises a red flag regarding certain voice lines that may come off as inappropriate or insensitive, indicating a lack of consistency in the quality of writing and humor throughout the game. Critics like Slant Magazine also mention that the humor can be grating, relying heavily on pop-culture references that may not resonate with all players. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Jagged Alliance 3 excels in voice acting and immersive music, it suffers from some repetitiveness and uneven writing quality. The majority of reviewers acknowledge the game's ability to create engaging audio experiences, with many praising the character interactions and the atmosphere created by the soundtrack. However, the criticisms regarding repetitiveness and occasional insensitivity in the writing indicate that there is room for improvement. Critics such as Gamereactor UK and Wccftech summarize the sound design as being effective, though not without its flaws, suggesting a mixed but generally favorable reception in the realm of audio design for the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Jagged Alliance 3's voice acting is praised for enhancing character depth and immersion, with many critics highlighting its campy charm and dynamic performances. However, some reviews point out shortcomings, including unfunny dialogue, clichéd portrayals, and cultural insensitivity. Overall, while the voice acting adds significant value to the game, it may not appeal to everyone due to these flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Jagged Alliance 3 has garnered a largely positive response from critics, highlighting the game's commitment to character development and immersive storytelling. Reviewers from Gaming Nexus and Merlin'in Kazanı both praised the quality of the voice performances, noting that the fully voiced mercenaries bring a campy charm and distinct personalities that enhance the overall gaming experience. Push Square echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the bespoke voice lines that add depth to each character, while TheXboxHub noted how the voice acting effectively contributes to the narrative and player connection. Critics like Gamereactor UK and God is a Geek also underscored the extensive background stories and interactions provided by the voice acting, suggesting that it significantly enriches the gameplay. However, not all reviews were complimentary, as some critics pointed out flaws in the voice acting. Checkpoint Gaming found the dialogue to be lacking in humor, describing it as "naff" and suggesting that the jokes often fell flat. Eurogamer Germany raised concerns about certain character portrayals being clichéd or culturally insensitive, while Player 2 criticized the reliance on tired racial stereotypes and repetitive one-liners. Siliconera also noted that some performances felt unconvincing and did not match the serious tone of the story, indicating a disconnect between the voice acting and the game's overarching narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the voice acting in Jagged Alliance 3 is a standout feature that adds personality and engagement to the game, it is not without its shortcomings. Many reviewers, such as Impulsegamer and VideoGamer, highlighted the high-quality performances and dynamic interactions that enhance character relationships, contributing positively to immersion. However, the criticisms regarding humor and cultural sensitivity suggest that while the voice acting is generally well-received, it may not resonate with all players. The game successfully captures a blend of charm and character depth, but it also faces scrutiny for certain aspects that could detract from the experience for some audiences.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Jagged Alliance 3 shows promise across platforms, with solid controls on PS5 and smooth performance on Xbox Series X and PC. However, critics highlight significant technical issues: PS5 suffers from freezes and frame drops, Xbox Series X faces bugs and graphical problems, while PC, despite decent performance, has its own quirks. Overall, while enjoyable, the game needs crucial fixes for a polished experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

28%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

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

The technical performance of Jagged Alliance 3 varies across platforms, but there are notable positives to highlight. On the PS5, critics like Push Square commend the game for its responsive control scheme, indicating a generally solid experience despite some issues. Similarly, the Xbox Series X version received praise from TheXboxHub for running smoothly and providing a stable experience, suggesting effective optimization for console play. On PC, the performance is largely viewed positively, with several reviewers, including Everyeye.it and Gameblog.fr, reporting smooth gameplay without significant technical issues. Even on older hardware, as noted by Riot Pixels, the game maintains good technical stability, which is an encouraging sign for a broad range of players. However, there are several negatives that critics have pointed out across the platforms. For the PS5, Gaming Nexus and Merlin'in Kazanı mention hard freezes and frame drops, with the latter also noting that the PC version outperforms its console counterpart. On the Xbox Series X, Eurogamer Germany highlights issues like frame drops and graphical artifacts, while XboxAddict reports a game-breaking bug that severely impacted their experience. On PC, while many reviewers found the performance decent, there were still mentions of bugs and technical issues, as noted by TechRadar Gaming and TRG, which included problems with cursor movement and item interaction glitches that detracted from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Jagged Alliance 3 offers a generally enjoyable experience across all platforms, it is marred by a range of technical issues that vary in severity. The PS5 version appears to struggle with performance hiccups, while the Xbox Series X has been criticized for control optimization and bugs. The PC version shows the most promise, with many reviewers reporting solid performance, though it is not without its own set of bugs. Critics like Gaming Nexus and XboxAddict highlight the importance of addressing these technical shortcomings to enhance the overall gameplay experience, suggesting that while the foundation is strong, further refinements are necessary for a truly polished release.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Jagged Alliance 3 boasts high replay value with its engaging gameplay and strategic depth, allowing players to experiment with various squad compositions and tactics. Critics praise its diverse options and difficulty settings, but some point out frustrating controls and a lack of compelling narrative, which might hinder replayability. Overall, it's a solid pick for strategy fans despite some criticisms about mechanics and potential repetitiveness.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Jagged Alliance 3 are predominantly positive, highlighting the game's engaging gameplay and strategic depth. Critics like Gaming Nexus and Push Square emphasize the high replayability stemming from the ability to experiment with different squad compositions and strategies. The inclusion of various difficulty settings and tactical options, as noted by Merlin'in Kazanı and XboxAddict, further enhances the appeal for players looking to replay the game with different approaches. Many reviewers, including Eurogamer Germany and COGconnected, mention the game's complex systems and the variety of choices available, which encourage multiple playthroughs and keep players engaged for many hours. However, there are notable concerns that could deter players from diving into multiple playthroughs. PlayStation Country points out that the harsh mechanics may discourage some players, while Xbox Tavern and CD-Action express frustrations with the game's controls and the lack of standout storyline elements, which could negatively impact replayability. Additionally, some critics, such as TechRadar Gaming and SpazioGames, mention potential repetitiveness in gameplay and narrative, suggesting that while the game is rich in content, it may not sustain interest over extended periods. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Jagged Alliance 3 offers significant replay value, driven by its tactical depth, diverse mercenary options, and the potential for varied gameplay experiences. Critics like Everyeye.it and GRYOnline.pl highlight the game's appeal to strategy enthusiasts, while others acknowledge the challenges posed by its difficulty and mechanics. Despite some criticisms regarding controls and potential repetitiveness, the game is generally regarded as a worthwhile experience for players who enjoy strategic gameplay and the exploration of different character combinations and outcomes.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment towards Jagged Alliance 3 from various critics highlights several positive aspects that resonate well with players. Many reviewers, such as RPG Fan and Shacknews, commend the game for successfully reviving the beloved franchise, combining nostalgic elements with modern gameplay mechanics. Critics like Wccftech and GamingBolt praise its engaging tactical combat and the depth of gameplay, which appeals to hardcore fans of the genre. The game is noted for its strategic gameplay, character management, and immersive environments, with Everyeye.it and Gamepressure emphasizing its compelling story and entertaining mercenaries. Additionally, the promise of extensive mod support post-launch, as mentioned by PC Gamer, adds to the game's long-term appeal. On the flip side, several critics point out significant drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. Issues such as problematic writing, including immature humor and racial stereotypes, were highlighted by TRG and TechRadar Gaming, which some reviewers found harmful and lazy. Technical performance issues, including frustrating controls and a lack of accessibility features, were also noted by critics like XboxAddict and Xbox Tavern, leading to a mixed impression of the gameplay experience. Moreover, the steep learning curve and outdated mechanics were concerns raised by PlayStation Country and GRYOnline.pl, indicating that newcomers may struggle to adapt to the game's demands. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Jagged Alliance 3 is a solid addition to the tactical strategy genre, particularly for fans of the series, as noted by Games.cz and Softpedia. While the game excels in delivering engaging gameplay and nostalgic elements, it is marred by technical issues and problematic writing that may alienate some players. Overall, it is recommended for genre veterans who appreciate its depth and challenge, but potential newcomers might find the experience daunting, as echoed by CD-Action and Eurogamer Poland. Despite its imperfections, many reviewers, including IGN and Gaming Nexus, recognize its potential to captivate players who enjoy strategic gameplay.

TL;DR

Jagged Alliance 3 impresses with its blend of nostalgia and modern gameplay, earning praise for tactical combat, character depth, and immersive environments. However, it struggles with problematic writing, technical issues, and a steep learning curve that could alienate newcomers. Best suited for hardcore fans of the genre, it offers significant replay value through mod support, but its flaws hold it back from wider acclaim.

MONSTER

Reviews

84 reviews found

Hooked Gamers

Jul 17, 2023