Pathfinder: Kingmaker — Enhanced Plus Edition

Developer: Owlcat Games
Release: Sep 25th 2018
Platforms:
Adventure
RPG
Deep
Tactical
Immersive
Steep Learning Curve
Difficulty Spikes
Pathfinder: Kingmaker — Enhanced Plus Edition Poster

" Deep adventure RPG with extensive customization and kingdom management but steep learning curve "

Pathfinder: Kingmaker — Enhanced Plus Edition Review

Pathfinder: Kingmaker — Enhanced Plus Edition is a deep, story-rich CRPG that faithfully adapts the Pathfinder tabletop RPG experience. Players appreciate its extensive character customization, strategic combat options (real-time with pause or turn-based), and the unique kingdom management system that adds an extra layer of gameplay. The game features a compelling main story with memorable companions and meaningful choices that impact both the narrative and your realm.

However, it is not without flaws. The game has a steep learning curve, especially for newcomers unfamiliar with Pathfinder 1e rules, and the pacing can be uneven due to kingdom management interruptions and timed events. Difficulty spikes and balancing issues, particularly in the endgame, frustrate many players. Technical bugs and UI quirks persist but have improved since launch. Overall, it is a rewarding experience for patient, hardcore RPG fans willing to invest time and effort, though casual players may find it overwhelming or tedious.

Highlights

Players praise the deep and flexible character customization, allowing for diverse builds with numerous classes and feats. The engaging story and well-written companions provide strong roleplaying moments and emotional investment. Combat is tactical and satisfying, with the option to switch between real-time with pause and turn-based modes. The kingdom management system is a unique addition that enriches gameplay by tying player decisions to the fate of their realm. The game’s faithful adaptation of Pathfinder rules and extensive content make it a standout for fans of classic CRPGs.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include the steep learning curve and lack of beginner-friendly tutorials, making it difficult for new players to grasp complex mechanics. The difficulty spikes and unbalanced encounters, especially in the late game, lead to frustration and forced save-scumming. The kingdom management can feel tedious and poorly explained, interrupting the narrative flow. Technical issues such as bugs, UI clunkiness, and occasional performance drops remain problematic. Additionally, the endgame dungeon design and timed quests are often seen as unfair and detract from the overall experience.

Pros

  • Extensive and deep character customization with many classes and feats.
  • Engaging story with memorable companions and impactful choices.
  • Tactical combat with real-time pause and turn-based options.
  • Unique kingdom management adds strategic depth and immersion.
  • Faithful adaptation of Pathfinder 1e rules for tabletop fans.
  • Rich content offering dozens of hours of gameplay.
  • Meaningful consequences affecting narrative and realm development.

Cons

  • Steep learning curve with minimal tutorials for newcomers.
  • Frustrating difficulty spikes and unbalanced late-game encounters.
  • Tedious and sometimes confusing kingdom management mechanics.
  • Inconsistent pacing due to timed events and management interruptions.
  • Technical bugs and UI quirks persist despite patches.
  • Endgame dungeon design considered unfair and tedious by many.
  • Save-scumming often required to overcome difficult fights.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Pathfinder: Kingmaker - Enhanced Plus Edition is the first isometric party-based cRPG set in the Pathfinder fantasy universe. Enjoy a classic RPG experience inspired by games like Baldur's Gate, Fallout 1 and 2 and Arcanum. Explore and conquer the Stolen Lands and make them your kingdom!

Release Date Sep 25th 2018
Publisher Knights Peak
Developer Owlcat Games
Platforms

User Reviews

Mostly Positive (17,124)
77% Positive 23% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
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