Valiant Hearts: The Great War is a poignant side-scrolling adventure and puzzle game that eschews the typical tropes of war shooters to focus on the human cost of conflict. Developed by Ubisoft Montpellier, this title serves as an emotional exploration of World War I, prioritizing the stories of those caught in the middle of the trenches rather than the glory of combat. With its striking hand-drawn art direction and deep commitment to historical authenticity, the game offers a unique perspective on one of history's most transformative eras.

A Multi-Perspective Journey Through WWI

The narrative of Valiant Hearts: The Great War is an ensemble piece that follows four distinct characters brought together by the circumstances of the Great War. Players take control of:

  • Emile: A Frenchman navigating the horrors of the front lines.
  • Karl: Emile's German son-in-law, providing a perspective from the opposing side.
  • Anna: A Belgian nurse tending to the wounded.
  • Freddie: An American soldier caught in the unfolding conflict.

As these characters interact—sometimes working together and sometimes against one another—the game weaves four simultaneous stories into a unified, heart-wrenching tale of survival, family, and loss. The gameplay allows players to experience different facets of the war, ranging from solving environmental puzzles and navigating through gas masks to engaging in military races and avoiding enemy forces.

Educational Gameplay and Historical Authenticity

One of the standout features of Valiant Hearts: The Great War is its role as an educational tool. Beyond the core puzzle-platforming mechanics, the game is deeply intertwined with real-world history. Each level begins with a summary of the actual historical battles that took place in those locations, providing essential context for the player.

As players traverse the levels, they can uncover hidden collectibles and historical anecdotes. These details offer insights into the efficacy of period-accurate tools, such as gas masks, and provide a deeper understanding of the technological and psychological shifts caused by the war. This dedication to accuracy has earned the game recognition, including Best Narrative awards and Games for a Change awards.

Key Features

  • Stunning Art Style: A beautiful, hand-drawn aesthetic that brings the grim reality of the trenches to life.
  • Puzzle-Driven Exploration: Navigate complex environments using items like wire cutters and levers to overcome obstacles.
  • Historical Depth: Learn about landmark battles and wartime innovations through integrated historical appendices.
  • Emotional Storytelling: A narrative focused on the psychological impact of war, the plight of families, and the shared humanity across enemy lines.

Who This Game Appeals To

Valiant Hearts: The Great War is ideal for players who prefer atmospheric, story-driven experiences over high-octane action. It will resonate with fans of indie adventure games, history enthusiasts looking for an engaging way to learn about WWI, and those who appreciate "slow" gaming that emphasizes emotion and atmosphere. While the gameplay mechanics are accessible, the heavy subject matter and beautifully told tales of sacrifice make it a deeply impactful experience for any audience.

Platform Availability

You can experience this historical journey on a wide variety of platforms, including:

  • PC
  • PlayStation 4
  • Xbox One
  • Nintendo Switch
  • iOS