Kingmakers: Medieval Combat Meets Modern Guns in Tactical Sim
â–Ľ Summary
– Kingmakers enters early access on October 8, featuring medieval units and machinery, not modern tanks as previously highlighted.
– The game includes six unit types (Swordsmen, Spearmen, Cavalry, etc.), each upgradeable and enhanced by holy relics and medieval siege equipment.
– Inspired by Total War and Mount and Blade, Kingmakers blends top-down RTS strategy with third-person combat, though third-person commanding won’t be in early access.
– Despite modern weaponry, enemies like armored officers pose a challenge due to realistic bullet penetration mechanics and varying armor effectiveness.
– The devblog reveals strategic elements like morale systems, prisoner mechanics, and civilian presence, shifting focus from the game’s previously action-heavy marketing.
Kingmakers blends medieval warfare with modern firepower in a tactical combat experience unlike any other. The upcoming game from Redemption Road enters early access on October 8, promising a chaotic mix of strategy and action where players command armies while wielding advanced weaponry against ancient foes. While trailers have highlighted the absurd spectacle of tanks flattening castles, the latest developer insights reveal deeper strategic systems beneath the explosive surface.
Six distinct unit types form the backbone of medieval combat in Kingmakers: Swordsmen, Spearmen, Cavalry, Archers, Berserkers, and Men-at-arms. Each can be upgraded through multiple tiers and enhanced further by collecting holy relics that unlock new abilities. Siege engines like trebuchets and ballistae add another layer to battles, though controlling these forces requires more than brute strength. Inspired by Total War’s large-scale tactics but with Mount & Blade’s individual unit AI, the game lets players switch seamlessly between top-down strategy and third-person combat.
Despite wielding guns against swords, players won’t dominate effortlessly. Armor penetration mechanics ensure combat stays challenging, lighter bullets struggle against basic plate armor, while heavier calibers or shotguns must be used strategically against elite officers clad in advanced protection. Morale systems, prisoner mechanics, and civilian presence add depth, though modern gadgets like gatling turrets remain shrouded in mystery for now.
The shift toward emphasizing strategy in the first devblog might surprise those expecting pure action chaos. Yet Redemption Road hints at more reveals to come, inviting players to shape future updates through Steam community feedback. One thing’s certain: whether leading cavalry charges or lining up headshots, Kingmakers aims to deliver a fresh twist on tactical warfare, with or without the promised tank mayhem.
(Image credit: Redemption Road Games)
(Source: PCGAMER)