Blackguards 2 is an indie strategy-RPG that blends turn-based combat with deep character development and a gritty, morally ambiguous narrative. Released on January 20, 2015, the game is available on PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and macOS. With a Metacritic score of 74.00, it has earned praise for its challenging gameplay, rich storytelling, and strategic depth. The game is a sequel to Blackguards, continuing the dark and chaotic world of Aventuria with a story that delves into themes of betrayal, power, and survival.

Gameplay and Genre

As a turn-based strategy-RPG, Blackguards 2 offers a unique blend of tactical combat and character progression. Players can choose from various playstyles, including front-line combatants, mages, or ranged fighters. Each decision made during gameplay has consequences, and death is a constant threat, adding to the tension and challenge of the experience.

The core mechanic involves managing a party of up to 20 characters, each with their own abilities, skills, and talents. Players must strategically position their units on a hexagonal battlefield, utilizing terrain, spells, and equipment to gain the upper hand in combat. The game emphasizes tactical depth, requiring players to think several moves ahead and adapt to the ever-changing battlefield.

Recruit and Command Your Army

One of the standout features of Blackguards 2 is the ability to recruit and command a diverse group of mercenaries. These characters can be customized and upgraded, allowing for a wide range of strategies and playstyles. The game also allows players to reunite with the Vanquishers of the Nine Hordes, a group of legendary warriors from the first game, and explore what has become of them in the years since their previous adventures.

  • Recruit mercenaries with unique abilities and backgrounds.
  • Customize and upgrade your characters to fit your playstyle.
  • Lead a party of up to 20 characters in hex-based battles.

The story follows Cassia, a noblewoman determined to claim the Shark Throne by any means necessary. Trapped in a dungeon and with a rival already on the throne, Cassia must resort to extreme measures to achieve her goals. The game's narrative is filled with twists, moral dilemmas, and fateful decisions that shape the journey and ultimately determine the ending.

Blackguards 2 is a game that appeals to fans of strategy, RPGs, and dark fantasy. It offers a challenging and rewarding experience for those who enjoy deep character development, tactical combat, and a story that is as unpredictable as it is engaging.