Summary
- Release Year: 2016
- Genres: Adventure, Indie, Strategy, Tactical, Turn-based strategy (TBS)
- Platforms: Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: CreativeForge Games
- Publishers: Good Shepherd Entertainment
Hard West: Scars of Freedom is a standalone expansion to the critically acclaimed turn-based strategy game Hard West. Set in the same supernatural Wild West setting, Scars of Freedom features a new story campaign, new characters, and new gameplay mechanics.
The story of Scars of Freedom follows Flynn, a former member of the notorious Hole in the Wall Gang, as he seeks to avenge the death of his mentor. Along the way, he teams up with a diverse cast of characters, including a Native American shaman, a Mexican bandit, and a mysterious woman with a dark past.
Scars of Freedom introduces several new gameplay mechanics to the Hard West formula. One of the most significant changes is the addition of a world map. This allows players to travel between different locations, each with its own unique challenges and opportunities. Players can also purchase supplies and equipment for their characters, and recruit new members to their party.
Another new gameplay mechanic is the ability to use enemy technology against them. For example, players can use captured Gatling guns to mow down their foes, or use dynamite to blow up cover. This adds a new layer of strategy to the combat, as players must carefully consider how to use their resources to their advantage.
The combat in Scars of Freedom is as challenging as ever. Players must carefully position their characters and use their abilities wisely in order to succeed. The game also features a number of new enemy types, each with their own unique abilities and weaknesses.
Despite the new gameplay mechanics, Scars of Freedom remains true to the spirit of the original Hard West. The game is still a brutal and unforgiving turn-based strategy game, with a strong emphasis on story and character development.
Characters
- Flynn: A former member of the Hole in the Wall Gang, Flynn is a skilled gunslinger with a dark past. He seeks to avenge the death of his mentor, and is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goal.
- Gin Carter: A Native American shaman, Gin Carter is a powerful ally in combat. She can use her magic to heal her allies, damage her enemies, and even control the weather.
- Lazarus: A Mexican bandit, Lazarus is a charismatic and cunning fighter. He is always looking for a good fight, and is not afraid to take risks.
- Mama Fortuna: A mysterious woman with a dark past, Mama Fortuna is a powerful ally in combat. She can use her magic to summon spirits, curse her enemies, and even control time.
Gameplay
Scars of Freedom is a turn-based strategy game in which players control a party of characters through a series of missions. The game features a variety of different gameplay mechanics, including:
- World map: Players can travel between different locations on the world map, each with its own unique challenges and opportunities.
- Combat: The combat in Scars of Freedom is turn-based, and players must carefully position their characters and use their abilities wisely in order to succeed.
- Enemy technology: Players can use captured enemy technology against them, such as Gatling guns and dynamite.
- Character development: Players can level up their characters and improve their abilities as they progress through the game.
Setting
Scars of Freedom is set in the same supernatural Wild West setting as the original Hard West. The game features a variety of different environments, including deserts, forests, and towns. The game’s world is full of strange and dangerous creatures, as well as outlaws and other unsavory characters.
Reception
Scars of Freedom has received positive reviews from critics. The game has been praised for its challenging combat, compelling story, and diverse cast of characters.
Conclusion
Hard West: Scars of Freedom is a standalone expansion to the critically acclaimed turn-based strategy game Hard West. The game features a new story campaign, new characters, and new gameplay mechanics. Scars of Freedom is a great addition to the Hard West series, and is a must-play for fans of turn-based strategy games.
Review Score
8.5/10