Tyranny

Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
Release: Nov 10th 2016
Platforms:
Adventure
RPG
Innovative
Narrative-driven
Replayable
Repetitive
Save-issues
Tyranny Poster

Tyranny Review

Tyranny stands out as a unique CRPG where players serve an evil overlord in a richly detailed world shaped by their choices. The game excels in storytelling, offering a dark, morally complex narrative that diverges from typical heroic RPGs. Players experience a dynamic world where decisions impact quests, companions, and factions, supported by strong character development and political intrigue. The innovative magic crafting system allows for creative spell combinations, enhancing gameplay depth. Combat is real-time with pause, strategic but can become repetitive over time. Visually, the game presents a gritty, atmospheric art style that complements its themes. However, some players find the ending rushed and the overall length somewhat short for an RPG. Minor technical issues like save game glitches and occasional UI clutter were reported. Despite these flaws, Tyranny is highly recommended for fans of story-driven RPGs seeking a fresh, darker perspective with meaningful player agency.

Highlights

Players praise Tyranny's compelling and original narrative, emphasizing the game's morally gray world and impactful choices. The magic crafting system is lauded for its creativity and depth, allowing personalized spell creation. Companion characterization and political intrigue enrich the story experience. The real-time with pause combat offers tactical gameplay, while the atmospheric visuals and sound design effectively immerse players in the dark, authoritarian setting. The game's branching storylines and multiple endings provide strong replay value, making it a standout in the CRPG genre.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include a rushed and underwhelming ending that does not match the story's earlier quality. Combat, while strategic, can become repetitive with limited enemy variety and build options. The game's length is considered short by some players, leaving the narrative feeling incomplete. Minor issues such as save game deletion glitches and occasional UI clutter affect the experience. Some voice acting is inconsistent, and the heavy text and dialogue focus may overwhelm players less interested in story-driven RPGs.

Pros

  • Unique narrative where you serve an evil overlord with impactful, morally complex choices.
  • Innovative magic crafting system allowing creative spell combinations and build variety.
  • Strong companion characterization and political intrigue enrich the storytelling experience.
  • Branching storylines and multiple endings offer excellent replayability.
  • Atmospheric, gritty art style complements the dark themes effectively.
  • Real-time with pause combat provides tactical depth and strategic planning.
  • Glossary feature aids understanding of lore and world-building details.

Cons

  • Ending feels rushed and underwhelming compared to the rest of the game.
  • Combat can become repetitive due to limited enemy variety and build options.
  • Save game deletion glitches reported, causing loss of progress.
  • UI occasionally cluttered and unintuitive for new players.
  • Some voice acting is inconsistent and limited dialogue voice-over.
  • Heavy text and dialogue focus may deter casual or action-oriented players.
  • Limited character customization aesthetics.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Experience a story-driven RPG where your choices mean all the difference in the world.

Release Date Nov 10th 2016
Publisher Paradox Interactive
Developer Obsidian Entertainment
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (6,125)
87% Positive 13% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
80