I am so tired of hearing a game pitch itself as the "definitive Game of Thrones experience," and then clicking on the ad to find out it's a Match-3 puzzler or some nonsense. Tyrion Lannister does not Match-3, people! But Game of Thrones: Kingsroad, now available in early access, sounds very promising.
Netmarble describes it as a "story-driven action RPG that brings Westeros to life with remarkable detail and never-before-seen scale." Its story takes place during Season Four of the hit HBO series. As the player, you are a brand-new character who is the heir to House Tyre, a small noble house in the North.
You can select one of three classes, Sellsword, Knight, or Assassin, to face the creatures and characters of Westeros. Here's a recent message from the developers to tell you a little more about it:
Through the choices you make in Kingsroad, you'll shore up your political standing, fight in the series' signature power struggles and build alliances as the world of Westeros prepares to fight the White Walkers. I don't know if you heard, but winter is coming.
Yes, yes, political intrigue is a huge part of the series. But what about the fighting? I'm pleased to inform you that KIngsroad includes full action RPG combat with dodging, parrying and what frankly sound like awesome swordfights.
According to the developers, rampant slashing won't get it done. You'll need to dodge and counter opponents' attacks before unleashing your own. Each of the three classes will have different skills, allowing for countless ways to make opponents bend the knee.
There are even raid bosses for you to take alongside the other lords and ladies of Westeros. I'm excited about this one, and it sounds like I'm not alone. Steam reviewer jourafk had this to say:
"
"After 160 hours of gameplay, I can say with confidence the game captivates the essence of Game of Thrones. It lets us see things differently, as if we part of the world, and the world itself is just marvelous. I enjoyed the game, and will keep on enjoying, highly recommended."
Netmarble expects to be in early access for about four weeks. If you love GoT, Kingsroad definitely seems like one to watch.