Vigilantes
" Gritty indie tactical RPG with deep squad combat and customization but simplistic AI "
Vigilantes Review
Vigilantes is a turn-based tactical RPG with strong inspirations from classic games like Jagged Alliance 2 and XCOM, set in a gritty, noir-style city torn by three criminal factions. Players lead a squad of vigilantes, balancing tactical combat with strategic overworld management including base building, surveillance, and resource management. The game offers a compact experience of around 9-20 hours depending on playstyle and difficulty, with a mix of ranged and melee combat, character progression through skill use and leveling, and a variety of weapons and perks.
Players praised its satisfying tactical combat mechanics, RPG elements, and engaging noir atmosphere with well-written dialogue and voice acting. However, the AI is often criticized for being simplistic and predictable, leading to repetitive combat encounters where enemies swarm directly. The strategic layer and story depth were seen as underdeveloped, with limited variety in maps and missions and minimal character interaction beyond initial introductions. Despite some jank and UI quirks, it delivers solid value at its price point, especially for fans of turn-based tactical games.
Highlights
Players particularly enjoyed the tactical turn-based combat that balances ranged and melee options, with an action point system and cover mechanics reminiscent of classic titles. The character progression system, combining skill use and level-based perks, allows for meaningful customization and varied playstyles. The noir setting and writing, including voiceovers and character interactions, were praised for adding atmosphere and personality. Additionally, the strategic overworld management involving base upgrades, surveillance, and crafting adds depth beyond combat. The game’s varied weaponry and crafting system also received positive remarks for encouraging diverse approaches.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the
Pros
- • Tactical combat blends ranged and melee with satisfying action point mechanics effectively.
- • Character progression through skill use and perks offers meaningful customization options.
- • Noir-style writing and voice acting add strong atmosphere and personality.
- • Strategic overworld management and base upgrades enhance gameplay depth.
- • Varied weapon types and crafting system encourage diverse combat approaches.
- • Combat animations and sound effects are well executed for an indie game.
- • Enemy factions have distinct styles requiring different tactical approaches.
Cons
- • Enemy AI is simplistic, often rushing directly and lacking tactical sophistication.
- • Limited map variety and repetitive mission design reduce long-term engagement.
- • Story and character arcs are shallow with minimal interaction and impact.
- • UI and controls feel clunky and unintuitive in inventory and combat screens.
- • Combat can feel grindy and tedious, especially during longer playthroughs.
- • Lack of stealth, flanking, and tactical positioning options limits strategy.
- • Some weapon balance issues, with heavy weapons less viable than expected.
Rating Criteria
Screenshots
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Vigilantes released?
Vigilantes was released on October 3, 2018.
Who developed Vigilantes?
Vigilantes was developed by Timeslip Softworks.
Is Vigilantes available on Mac?
Yes, Vigilantes is available on Mac.
Is Vigilantes available on Linux?
Yes, Vigilantes is available on Linux.
Where can I buy Vigilantes?
You can buy Vigilantes on Steam.
Game Details
Vigilantes is a combat focused, turn-based tactical RPG set in the crime riddled city of Reiker. The game offers hardcore squad-level combat in a gritty neo-noir setting, intel gathering through surveillance and interrogation, a detailed character system, base facilities, crafting, and more.