Swords and Sandals 3 Redux
" Engaging RPG-strategy with deep customization and modernized combat but occasional grind and bugs "
Swords and Sandals 3 Redux Review
Swords and Sandals 3 Redux is widely praised as a successful and nostalgic remake of the classic flash game, offering significant improvements in gameplay mechanics, graphics, and overall polish. Players appreciate the addition of new features like weapon enchantments, the ability to claim gear from defeated arena champions, and a variety of classes and difficulty settings that enhance replayability. The combat system is described as addictive and strategic, with a good balance of depth and accessibility. The soundtrack and art style receive positive remarks for enhancing the nostalgic experience.
However, some players note issues with the health regeneration mechanic, which can lead to frustrating fights. The economy and progression systems, particularly gold and experience gain at higher levels, are criticized for being grindy and slow. A few bugs and UI quirks persist, such as armor enchantment inconsistencies and occasional performance hitches. Despite these, the game is generally regarded as a worthy and enjoyable update to a beloved classic, with strong community support and anticipation for future content.
Highlights
Players highly praise the enhanced combat system that feels more impactful and customizable with new mechanics like forging and enchantments. The ability to claim champion gear after victories is a popular and rewarding feature.
The graphics and sound design are seen as significant upgrades, maintaining the original's charm while modernizing the presentation. The variety of classes, races, and difficulty modes adds depth and replayability, making the game engaging for both newcomers and veterans.
The overall nostalgic atmosphere combined with modern improvements creates a compelling experience that many consider the definitive version of Swords and Sandals 3.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the health regeneration system, which can make certain fights feel unfair or tedious due to opponents rapidly healing damage.
Players express frustration with the grindy progression, noting that gold and experience gains slow down significantly at higher levels, making farming and gearing up a slog.
Some bugs and UI issues remain, such as armor enchantments not always applying correctly, awkward animations, and occasional slowdowns during combat. The pricing and level restrictions on forging and enchanting systems are also seen as limiting and unintuitive.
Finally, a few players find the difficulty spikes and RNG elements overly punishing, especially against certain bosses.
Pros
- • Significant upgrade from the original with improved combat mechanics and features.
- • Ability to claim gear from defeated arena champions adds rewarding progression.
- • Wide variety of classes, races, and difficulty modes enhances replayability.
- • Graphics and sound design modernize the nostalgic experience effectively.
- • Fast and addictive gameplay loop keeps players engaged for hours.
- • New forging and enchantment systems add depth to character customization.
- • Multiple difficulty settings cater to both casual and hardcore players.
Cons
- • Health regeneration system can make some fights feel unfair or tedious.
- • Progression becomes grindy due to low gold and experience gains at higher levels.
- • Some bugs persist, including enchantment inconsistencies and occasional slowdowns.
- • Pricing and level restrictions on forging/enchanting feel unintuitive and limiting.
- • Difficulty spikes and RNG elements can lead to frustrating gameplay moments.
- • Armor bonuses lost when armor breaks mid-fight reduces strategic depth.
- • Shop inventory and restocking mechanics sometimes hinder gearing options.
Rating Criteria
A legend returns! The beloved classic Swords and Sandals 3 is back, re-forged in glory! Step back into the Gladiae Ultratus once more and prepare to take on the greatest gladiators in all Brandor. It's the hardest, most metal gladiator game ever made.