Blackguards 2

Blackguards 2 is a turn-based tactical RPG set in the fantasy world of The Dark Eye, following Cassia of Tenos—a former consort turned ambitious ruler—as she escapes imprisonment and seeks to conquer the Emirate of Mengbilla. The game blends strategic hex-based combat with a Risk-like world map, where players must capture territories, defend against counterattacks, and manage mercenary units. With a revamped skill system focusing on special abilities and weapon talents, players lead Cassia and her companions through battles, interrogations, and political maneuvering, shaping her rise to power.

Blackguards 2: A Dark and Tactical Masterpiece

Introduction

Blackguards 2 is a turn-based tactical role-playing game that takes place three years after the original. Cassia of Tenos was the consort of Marwan, the First Kyrios of Mengbilla, until one day she was snatched from her bed and thrown to rot in the catacombs beneath the capital’s arena. Frightened and clueless as to why she is deprived of her freedom, she soon finds out that the underground is a dangerous place, inhabited by venomous spiders and who knows what other manner of creatures. Her only companion is “The Good Ruler”, a book on governing, which after countless reads has triggered a spark inside Cassia–she decided that she wants to rule, to see everyone bow before her, even if it’s just for one day.

Development History & Context

Blackguards 2 was developed and published by Daedalic Entertainment, a studio known for its narrative-driven games. The game is based on the pen-and-paper role-playing game The Dark Eye, and borrows a lot of mechanics and the setting from it. The game was released for Microsoft Windows and OS X on January 20, 2015, and was later ported to PlayStation 4 and Xbox One in September 2017, and for Nintendo Switch in June 2022.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

The narrative of Blackguards 2 is a dark and engaging tale that’s sure to haunt you even after you put it down. Cassia of Tenos is a young woman of noble descent who has only one goal: she wants to claim the Shark Throne, no matter the price; and be it only for one day. Unfortunately, there are two problems that potentially foil her plans. First of all, she spends her days incarcerated in a dungeon and secondly, there is already a man on her throne: Marwan. She is neither fond nor proficient in matters of diplomacy or politics, so she chooses a more… practical approach. She intends to break out of prison and overthrow Marwan to claim the throne herself. For this, she needs strong allies. She needs to recruit an army of Sellswords and rally the Vanquishers of the Nine Hordes around her.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

The gameplay of Blackguards 2 is a mix of turn-based tactical combat and strategic world map management. The battles that take place on hex maps remain the core of the game. They are usually triggered via the world map, however there are some tied directly to the story as well. In all hex battles the player can employ different tactics using the heroes’ individual abilities, spells and the surroundings, including traps, difficult terrain and wildlife. When defending a territory there is an initial phase where different traps, obstacles and barrels of oil can be placed around in strategic places in order to slow down the enemy’s advance.

World-Building, Art & Sound

The world of Blackguards 2 is a dark and dangerous place, filled with venomous spiders and other manner of creatures. The game’s setting is a fantasy world that is richly detailed and immersive. The art style is dark and gritty, with a focus on realistic character models and detailed environments. The sound design is equally impressive, with a haunting soundtrack that perfectly complements the game’s dark themes.

Reception & Legacy

Blackguards 2 received average reviews from professional critics upon release. Aggregate review website Metacritic assigned the PC version a score of 74/100 based on 48 reviews. IGN rates it 7.8 out of 10, commenting that it improved on its predecessor: “you can spend less time confused about the details, and more time fighting.”

Conclusion

Blackguards 2 is a dark and engaging tale that’s sure to haunt you even after you put it down. When you factor in the rewarding and challenging SRPG gameplay, you’re left with a must-have game for those looking to put their tactical abilities to the test. The game’s narrative is a dark and engaging tale that’s sure to haunt you even after you put it down. The gameplay is a mix of turn-based tactical combat and strategic world map management, and the world-building, art, and sound design are all top-notch. Overall, Blackguards 2 is a must-play for fans of tactical RPGs.