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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

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 story garners mixed reviews, praised for its nostalgic, over-the-top action movie vibe set in fictional Grand Chien. While some enjoy its humor and campy elements, many critics lambast the writing as immature and riddled with stereotypes, calling the plot predictable and uninspired. The game seems tailored for fans of retro action tropes but risks alienating those seeking a deeper narrative. In short, it's a hit-or-miss experience that divides audiences.

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 received some praise from critics for its engaging premise and nostalgic nods to classic action movie tropes. Many reviewers, such as Gaming Nexus and PC Gamer, highlight the game's setting in the fictional African nation of Grand Chien, where players take on the role of mercenaries tasked with rescuing a kidnapped president. The narrative is often described as humorous and over-the-top, reminiscent of 80s and 90s action films, which some players may find appealing. Critics like CGMagazine and PC Games also note that the game features side missions that enrich the main storyline, adding layers of depth and moral choices that enhance the overall gameplay experience. However, the majority of critics have pointed out significant flaws in the storytelling. Reviewers like TRG and TechRadar Gaming criticize the writing as immature, filled with racial stereotypes and juvenile humor that detracts from the overall experience. COGconnected echoes this sentiment, stating that the story lacks nuance and fails to rise above lazy stereotypes. Many critics, including VideoGamer and IGN Portugal, describe the plot as predictable and uninspired, serving merely as a backdrop for the gameplay rather than a compelling narrative. This consensus on the story's shortcomings suggests a failure to meet the expectations of those looking for a more sophisticated or nuanced narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a clear divide between those who appreciate the nostalgic and humorous elements of the story and those who are critical of its execution. While some enjoy the campy, action-movie feel of the narrative, as noted by critics like Xbox Tavern and Gamepressure, many others find the writing problematic and lacking depth. The game seems to cater to a specific audience that enjoys its over-the-top style, but the negative feedback regarding stereotypes and immature humor indicates that it may alienate players seeking a more thoughtful and engaging story. As such, Jagged Alliance 3's narrative appears to be a double-edged sword, appealing to some while disappointing others.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Jagged Alliance 3 impresses with its deep turn-based tactical combat and diverse mercenary team dynamics, offering a rich gameplay experience that blends strategy and RPG elements. Critics praise its engaging mechanics, but note flaws like poor console controls, a lack of tutorials for newcomers, and issues with targeting and AI. Overall, it’s a strong tactical RPG entry, despite its accessibility challenges.

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 from critics, who praise its deep and engaging turn-based tactical combat. Reviewers such as IGN and PC Gamer highlight the satisfaction derived from managing a diverse team of mercenaries, each with unique abilities and personalities, allowing for a variety of strategic approaches. The game’s emphasis on tactical planning, resource management, and the integration of RPG elements, as noted by critics like SpazioGames and TRG, contributes to a rich gameplay experience. The combat mechanics are described as fun and rewarding, with a blend of simulation and modern tactics, creating an addictive gameplay loop that keeps players invested. However, the game is not without its flaws. Several critics pointed out issues with the control scheme, particularly on consoles, as highlighted by XboxAddict and Eurogamer Germany, where poor controls and sluggish inventory management can hinder the overall experience. Additionally, the lack of a proper tutorial, as mentioned by GRYOnline.pl, may pose a barrier for newcomers, making the steep learning curve even more daunting. Critics like Gamepressure also expressed concerns regarding targeting mechanics and AI behavior, which can lead to frustrating moments during combat. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Jagged Alliance 3 delivers a compelling tactical gameplay experience that appeals to fans of the genre. While there are notable shortcomings, particularly in terms of controls and accessibility for new players, the majority of reviewers, including those from IGN, PC Games, and Gaming Nexus, agree that the game successfully captures the essence of strategic planning and tactical execution. The combination of engaging combat, diverse mercenary management, and the freedom to approach objectives in multiple ways solidifies Jagged Alliance 3 as a strong entry in the tactical RPG genre, despite the challenges it presents.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Jagged Alliance 3 boasts stunning visuals and immersive environments, praised for detailed battlefields and atmospheric settings. However, it suffers from inconsistent graphical performance, especially on PS5, where texture and UI issues detract from the experience. Overall, while the graphics impress, significant improvements are needed for a uniform high-quality experience across platforms.

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 from critics, particularly regarding the detailed environments and atmospheric maps. Many reviewers, such as Checkpoint Gaming and Shacknews, highlight the game's stunning visuals and the impressive variety of locations, from towns to swamps and jungles, that enhance the tactical gameplay experience. The game is noted for its well-designed battlefields, with PC Gamer commenting on the gorgeous lighting and dynamic weather effects that add depth to combat scenarios. Critics like Everyeye.it and TechRadar Gaming also appreciate the high level of visual fidelity and the immersive nature of the environments, which contribute positively to the overall aesthetic of the game. However, there are notable criticisms concerning the graphical performance across different platforms. Several reviewers, including Impulsegamer and Merlin'in Kazanı, pointed out that the PS5 version, in particular, lacks the visual fidelity of the PC version, with performance drops and UI issues being common complaints. Critics like IGN Adria and XboxAddict describe certain graphical elements as outdated, with textures appearing pixelated and some character models lacking detail. The user interface has also been criticized for not being well-optimized, especially for smaller screens, making gameplay uncomfortable for some users, as noted by PlayStation Country. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Jagged Alliance 3 features a visually appealing design with impressive environmental detail, it struggles with consistency across platforms and some outdated elements. The game excels in creating immersive and diverse battle environments, as highlighted by reviewers like Eurogamer Poland and TRG, yet it falls short in delivering a uniformly high-quality graphical experience, particularly on consoles. The mixed sentiments indicate that while the game has strong visual elements, it also has significant room for improvement, especially in optimizing performance and modernizing certain aspects of its graphics.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Jagged Alliance 3 shines with immersive sound design and high-quality voice acting that enrich character interactions, earning praise from critics. However, issues like repetitive unit barks and inconsistent humor have sparked criticism. While the music adds atmosphere with its African-inspired melodies, it lacks memorability. Overall, the audio experience is strong but not without flaws, indicating room for improvement in future updates.

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 garnered a largely positive reception among critics, highlighting the game's immersive audio experience. Reviewers such as Merlin'in Kazanı and TheXboxHub praised the well-executed sound design, emphasizing the quality of voice acting that adds depth to character interactions and enhances immersion. Critics like Games.cz and God is a Geek noted the effectiveness of the fully voiced mercenaries, which not only brings personality to the characters but also enriches the gameplay experience through engaging banter. Additionally, the music has been recognized for its atmospheric contributions, with Impulsegamer and RPG Fan noting the inclusion of African-inspired melodies that evoke a late 90s action movie vibe, further immersing players in the game’s setting. However, not all feedback is favorable, as some critics pointed out significant drawbacks in the sound design. COGconnected and Siliconera highlighted the repetitiveness of unit barks, suggesting that they can become tiresome over time, which may detract from the overall experience. Eurogamer Germany raised concerns about some voice acting being perceived as inappropriate or insensitive, indicating that the humor and writing quality can be uneven. Furthermore, while some critics like IGN Italia and SECTOR.sk acknowledged that the music complements the gameplay, they also remarked that it lacks memorability, suggesting that it may not leave a lasting impression on players. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Jagged Alliance 3 features a strong foundation in sound design and music, with commendable voice acting and engaging character interactions being standout elements. However, the repetitiveness of certain audio elements and inconsistencies in humor and writing have drawn criticism. While many reviewers, such as PC Gamer and VideoGamer, celebrated the high-quality voice performances and dynamic character interactions, others pointed to areas needing improvement. This mixed feedback suggests that while the audio experience is generally enjoyable, it may not be without its flaws, leaving room for further refinement in future updates or installments.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Jagged Alliance 3's voice acting is a standout feature, praised for its quality, distinct character personalities, and engaging interactions, enhancing player connection and narrative depth. However, some critics note forced humor, clichéd portrayals, and occasional cultural insensitivity, leading to mixed reactions. While many players love the voice work, others find it lacking, highlighting a divide in overall enjoyment.

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 received a largely positive reception from critics, who commend the game's commitment to fully voicing its mercenaries. Reviewers like Gaming Nexus and Merlin'in Kazanı highlight the quality of performances, noting that the distinct personalities and interactions of the characters significantly enhance the overall experience. Critics such as TheXboxHub and Gamereactor UK emphasize how the well-executed voice acting contributes to the narrative and character development, fostering a deeper connection between players and the mercenaries. Additionally, the humor and campy charm mentioned by XboxAddict and Hey Poor Player resonate with some players, adding a layer of entertainment that pays homage to classic action films. However, not all feedback is entirely favorable. Some critics, such as Checkpoint Gaming and Player 2, point out that the humor can feel forced or rely on tired clichés, detracting from the experience. Eurogamer Germany raises concerns about certain portrayals being clichéd or culturally insensitive, while Siliconera criticizes the voice acting for being unconvincing and misaligned with the serious tone of the story. This mixed feedback suggests that while the voice acting has its strengths, it also has notable weaknesses that can affect players' immersion and enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Jagged Alliance 3 is a strong aspect of the game, with many praising the distinct personalities and engaging interactions of the mercenaries. Critics like VideoGamer and RPG Fan affirm that the voice work adds depth and personality, enhancing player attachment. However, the criticisms regarding humor and cultural sensitivity indicate that the voice acting may not resonate equally with all players. The combination of high-quality performances and some pitfalls creates a nuanced reception, suggesting that while many enjoy the voice acting, others find it lacking in certain areas.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Jagged Alliance 3 receives mixed but generally positive reviews for technical performance across platforms. PS5 and Xbox Series X face issues like frame drops and bugs, affecting gameplay. The PC version shines with smooth performance, even on older hardware. Overall, while enjoyable, there's a clear need for improvements in controls and optimization to address the technical flaws noted by critics.

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 has garnered a mixed but generally positive reception across different gaming platforms. On the PlayStation 5, several reviewers, including Push Square, noted that the game performs well overall, highlighting a responsive control scheme. Despite some minor issues, the autosave function was praised by Gaming Nexus for mitigating the impact of technical problems. The Xbox Series X version received a commendation from TheXboxHub for its smooth performance and optimized controls, indicating a stable experience for players. On PC, the consensus is more favorable, with critics like Everyeye.it and Gameblog.fr reporting smooth gameplay with no significant technical issues, while even older hardware managed to run the game well, as noted by Riot Pixels. However, there are notable negatives across the platforms that cannot be overlooked. On the PS5, multiple critics, including Merlin'in Kazanı and PlayStation Country, pointed out frequent frame drops and occasional freezing, which detracted from the overall experience. The Xbox Series X version faced criticism from XboxAddict and Xbox Tavern for poor controls and game-breaking bugs, highlighting significant technical issues that affected gameplay. On the PC, while many reviews were positive, there were still mentions of bugs and performance hiccups, particularly from TechRadar Gaming and TRG, who noted cursor movement problems and item interaction glitches that negatively impacted the user experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Jagged Alliance 3 has its share of technical performance issues, particularly on the PS5 and Xbox Series X, the PC version stands out for its superior performance. Many reviewers acknowledged that despite the bugs and occasional frame rate drops, the game remains enjoyable, especially on higher-end systems. The general sentiment is that while the game is playable and offers a solid experience, there is room for improvement, particularly in optimizing controls and addressing the technical flaws that some platforms exhibit.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Jagged Alliance 3 is a strategy gem with high replay value, lauded for its engaging gameplay and strategic depth. Critics praise its variety of squad options and difficulty settings, making it appealing for strategy fans. However, harsh mechanics and lackluster storytelling may deter casual players, with permadeath and management systems adding to the potential frustration. Overall, while many are excited to dive back in, the game's challenges could limit its appeal to a broader audience.

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 overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Jagged Alliance 3 is predominantly positive, with many critics highlighting its engaging gameplay and strategic depth. Reviewers such as Gaming Nexus and Push Square emphasize the game's high replayability due to the ability to experiment with different squad compositions and strategies. The variety of difficulty settings and tactical options, as noted by Merlin'in Kazanı, further enhances the appeal for players seeking to replay the game with different approaches. Critics like Eurogamer Germany and Everyeye.it point out that the game's complex systems and varied gameplay experiences contribute significantly to its replay value, making it particularly attractive for strategy enthusiasts. However, there are notable concerns that could deter some players from multiple playthroughs. Critics such as PlayStation Country and XboxAddict mention that the harsh mechanics and frustrating controls may discourage repeated attempts, particularly for casual gamers. Additionally, CD-Action and SpazioGames raise concerns about the main storyline and side missions not standing out, which could affect the overall desire to replay the game. The presence of permadeath and the need to manage mercenary relationships, while enhancing replayability, is also mentioned by Xbox Tavern as a potential source of frustration, indicating that the game's difficulty may not appeal to everyone. In summary, while the consensus among critics is that Jagged Alliance 3 offers significant replay value through its strategic depth, varied mercenary options, and complex systems, there are underlying issues that may hinder its appeal for some players. The game is praised for its engaging gameplay, with many reviewers eager to explore different strategies and outcomes, as noted by COGconnected and Riot Pixels. However, the challenges posed by its mechanics and narrative structure, as highlighted by several critics, suggest that while the game has the potential for replayability, it may not be universally embraced by all segments of the gaming community.

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.

In analyzing the overall sentiment surrounding "Jagged Alliance 3," it is clear that many critics find significant positives in the game. The gameplay mechanics have been widely praised for their depth and engagement, with multiple reviewers noting the game's strategic complexity and the enjoyable mercenary management system. For instance, Gaming Nexus highlights the game's ability to combine 80s action movie charm with challenging gameplay, while RPG Fan describes it as an impressive and endlessly entertaining revival of the series. Critics like GameGrin and PC Gamer emphasize the addictive gameplay and the promise of extensive mod support, which could enhance the game's longevity and appeal. Additionally, Hooked Gamers awarded it a high score of 9.5 out of 10, celebrating its satisfying mechanics and challenging gameplay. However, the game is not without its flaws, which many critics have pointed out. Several reviews mention frustrating controls and technical issues that detract from the overall experience. XboxAddict and Xbox Tavern both express disappointment with the combat mechanics and controls, leading to a mixed impression of the game. Additionally, concerns about the writing quality, including immature dialogue and racial stereotyping, have been raised by critics like TRG, who describe these elements as harmful and lazy. The steep learning curve and outdated mechanics have also been cited as potential barriers for newcomers, with PlayStation Country noting that these factors could frustrate those unfamiliar with the series. Overall, the consensus among critics appears to be that "Jagged Alliance 3" is a solid entry in the tactical strategy genre, particularly for veterans of the series. While many reviewers acknowledge its potential and engaging gameplay, they also caution that the game may not appeal to everyone due to its technical shortcomings and challenging mechanics. Critics like IGN Italia and SECTOR.sk affirm that the game successfully revives the series, but it may require patience and dedication from players, especially those new to tactical RPGs. Ultimately, "Jagged Alliance 3" stands as a commendable homage to its predecessors, though it is marred by issues that could hinder its broader appeal.

TL;DR

"Jagged Alliance 3" impresses critics with its deep gameplay, strategic complexity, and engaging mercenary management, earning praise for its nostalgic charm and addictive mechanics. However, frustration arises from controls, technical issues, and problematic writing, making it a mixed bag for newcomers. While it successfully revives the series, players need patience to navigate its flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

84 reviews found

Hooked Gamers

Jul 17, 2023