Face the harrowing World War 1 in Ubisoft Montpellier's latest game, Valiant Hearts: The Great War.
After the amazing and beautiful rpg Child of Light, Ubisoft once again surprise the game industry with their new UbiArt Frameworks powered game, Valiant Hearts: The Great War, a 2D side scrolling puzzle game that take place in the horrific World War 1. Can Valiant Hearts keep up with the high standard set by Rayman and Child of Light? The answer is very simple, YES, Valiant Hearts: The Great War is definitely one of the best game in 2014.
The Story (10/10)
+ great compelling story that will easily move you with its innocence in the middle of cruel and horrific war
+ loveable characters with great motivation and character development
+ each character have their own story and their own perspective of the war, it's hard not to love and care with all 4 playable characters because they are simply the kindest characters ever in video game history.
+ undoubtedly the most speechless ending i ever encounter in video game.
The Gameplay (8/10)
+ simple puzzle solving problem, usually deal with reaching unreachable places and collecting items needed to advance.
+ each character have their own special gameplay mechanic. Emile have his shovel to dig underground tunnel, Freedie have his unbreakable wire cutter, and Anna have her medic capability.
+ enough gameplay variety to keep the each mission fresh, from the quite puzzle solving to intense war charges and the amazingly fun driving section.
+ equipped with interesting World War 1 documentation to better understanding the war.
- the absent of in-game tutorial can be confusing at the first time
- there are certain lack of challenge compare to Rayman and Child of Light
The Graphics (8/10)
+ still the amazing and beautiful UbiArt Framework engine
+ smooth and steady framerate
+ great character animation and design
- the art direction feel a bit too simple compare to Rayman and Child of Light
The Sound (9/10)
+ beautiful main theme and other scores
+ funny gibberish by the characters
Verdict (8.85/10)
Valiant Hearts: The Great War is an amazing game. While the production value seems a bit 'cheap' compared to Rayman Origins, Rayman Legend, and Child of Light, it have one of the best story and characters in video game history.