The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance Tactics (2020)

A dumb and predictable tactics game that goes by the book in a way that completely neutralizes all its ability to surprise or engage in any meaningful way.

The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance Tactics brings to the Nintendo Switch a turn-based strategy game based on the Netflix series and Jim Henson's classic puppet movie and while this game relies more on CGI than on puppets, the spirit of both the series and the movie is undeniable, thanks to the way the game immerses its players and provides a welcoming environment for fans and for those just discovering the world of The Dark Crystal universe.

Oh, how beautiful the game could have been. Unfortunately, so much potential was thrown away during the video game implementation of the Netflix production. Besides the fantastic puppet epic, this game here unfortunately seems like a loveless attempt to make some money out of the Netflix success. There is a lack of attention to detail at every corner. Thral could have offered so much, but nothing was taken advantage of. The story presentation alone could have looked so much better. A co-op multiplayer might have been able to give it a little bit more, but again the chance was missed. The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance Tactics is nothing more than a mediocre lap strategy game to me - it could have been so much more.

I have to admit folks, me and this game simply didn’t gel. At first I was worried entering blind with no attachment would lessen my experience, but it seems my disappointment has been equally shared by fans alike. I also defend that a game should do a solid job of supporting its source material, even a simple tie-in should never settle itself as a lesser package. Despite this, there are some things this game does. The combat is of solid construct...

Despite my complaints, I really did enjoy playing The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance Tactics. As a fan of the genre, I found a lot to appreciate, despite my lack of familiarity with the source material. Though I can’t say this with certainty, since there’s no in-game timer, I estimate I spent about 22 hours playing through the game. Once you beat it, you unlock a New Game+, though I didn’t have enough time to test that out. Though it’s relatively linear, I felt I got my money’s worth for $19.99. If you’re a fan of tactics games, I’d say AoRT is worth the price of admission, even if I hope it gets some DLC to flesh things out and fix the quirks.