Top Medieval Battles: Skyrim to Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 - Ranked!

Summary

Medieval-style action games, from Skyrim to The Witcher 3, offer immersive worlds and varied combat systems.
The difficulty and complexity of combat enhances gameplay in games like Dark Souls 3 and Middle-earth: Shadow of War.
Medieval and medieval-inspired settings are crucial to each of these games, driving narratives, building realism, and enhancing gameplay.

For decades, medieval-style action games have been a mainstay in the gaming world, ranging from the epic combat of high fantasy titles like “The Elder Scrolls: Arena” (1994) to the gritty realism of future releases such as “Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2“. With a new significant installment emerging approximately every few years, this genre is unlikely to fade away. So, expect many more years filled with dragon slaying, justice dispensing, and world exploration!

With just a sword as their only weapon and a few coins as their entire fortune, players find themselves in treacherous realms. They’ll have to face the threats posed by fearsome dragons, ruthless bandits, and malevolent empires. To leave a lasting impact, they must learn to wield their weapons proficiently and hone their skills.

The listed games are ordered based on how captivating their action sequence is, as well as the impact of their medieval atmosphere on the gaming experience.

Only medieval-style action games featuring real-time combat are included on this list.

8. The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim

Varied But Ultimately Simplistic Combat

Open-world high fantasy RPG
Diverse combat that has aged poorly
Features realistic and fantasy-themed threats

In this renowned open-world fantasy RPG set in the breathtaking world of Skyrim, gamers assume the character of an ex-prisoner of war. Throughout their journey, players traverse the enchanting landscape, clashing swords with numerous perils, both magical and mundane. As they progress, players will carve out a reputation for themselves, rising from a destitute prisoner to the celebrated hero saving Tamriel.

In the heat of intense, rapid battles, frequently involving several opponents, players need to swiftly master managing their health, energy, and magical powers to stay alive. This game’s combat system offers a wealth of diversity, featuring a vast skill tree where players can unlock numerous potent rewards and abilities. Regrettably, Skyrim’s combat system lacks longevity as late-game battles often reduce to repetitive button pressing, with minimal risk of death for the player.

The medieval ambiance of Skyrim significantly shapes its storyline. Each quest, be it a major one or a simple task, is intertwined with this setting, encompassing themes such as deities, fate, dragons, as well as more tangible dangers like tribal feuds, expanding empires, and internal power struggles among factions.

7. Dragon’s Dogma 2

Organic Combat, Weak Medieval Setting

Open-world fantasy RPG
Incredibly organic combat encounters
Limited enemy variety

In the sequel to Dragon’s Dogma, known as Dragon’s Dogma 2, players find themselves immersed in a vast, untamed fantasy world. Here, you can seize riches from fearsome beasts, construct an invincible team, or embrace your fate as an Arisen – the choices are limitless.

As a gamer, I can’t wait to delve into this game where fights could break out anywhere, at any time! One peaceful forest stroll might suddenly turn into an intense player-versus-griffon survival battle. Even when I expect trouble, I never know what’s coming next. A troll sauntering onto my path can quickly transform a routine goblin fight into a desperate struggle for life. Once engaged in such a skirmish, I need to be on my toes as the monsters and allies adjust their strategies on the fly. If I want to survive, I’ve got to keep up!

Without a doubt, the grand battles depicted wouldn’t exist without the medieval fantasy backdrop of Dragon Dogma 2. While numerous locations draw heavily on their medieval roots, the game lacks diversity in its foes, which might diminish the prolonged pleasure derived from exploring its expansive world.

6. Dark Souls 3

Relentless Combat With A Dark Fantasy Twist

Dark fantasy RPG
Notoriously difficult combat that can be rewarding or frustrating
Setting subverts players’ expectations

Known for its challenging gameplay and intricate battle strategies, Dark Souls 3 places you in the shoes of solitary fighters battling their way through a world that has succumbed to decay. Frightening monstrosities and eerie threats lurk in every nook, eager to pounce on players without warning. Clearly, this isn’t a game for those with delicate sensibilities or short tempers.

If you’re seeking games that test your combat strategies to the max, this series won’t disappoint. It throws players into intense battles against seemingly invincible creatures, forcing them to reassess everything they thought they knew about combats. There are no easy ways out here, like overpowered weapons or difficulty settings, just you, your character, and your ability to adapt and conquer challenges. For those who thrive on a tough challenge, this is perfect. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more relaxed gaming experience, you might want to explore other options instead.

In contrast to other games in the genre, the Dark Souls series stands out by challenging players’ assumptions about the game world. Instead of the enchanting, fairy-tale landscapes usually associated with high fantasy, players are confronted with a decaying, desolate environment where the usual elves and dragons have been replaced by grotesque creatures and fearsome beasts. Despite its fantastical elements, this setting is grounded in raw, intense action rather than adhering to medieval realism.

5. Dragon Age: Inquisition

Engaging Action With Medieval Fantasy Plots

High fantasy party-based RPG
Thrilling and complex combat
Medieval setting is integral to the game

For more than a decade now, I’ve come across the epic tale known as “Dragon Age: Inquisition”. As a gamer, this game is like a beacon in the high fantasy realm, inviting me to delve into an expansive universe. I gather my motley crew, determined to stand against the tumultuous forces that threaten to shatter our world into pieces.

Engaging in combat offers an immersive experience with intricate mechanics, providing players numerous skills and attacks to annihilate their adversaries. Divided among the traditional roles of mage, warrior, and rogue, each class comes with three distinct subclasses brimming with lethal abilities and strong powers that can alter the course of any conflict. The challenge lies in choosing which skill to use initially! Combat can erupt at any point in the game’s story as it is intertwined with its narrative; one wrong move, and a casual conversation could escalate into a fierce fight.

As a dedicated gamer immersed in the Inquisition universe, I can’t help but be captivated by its richly detailed medieval backdrop that forms the core of this extraordinary series. Each installment is fueled by elements of high fantasy steeped in medieval lore, often exploring the dark consequences of misusing magic and the catastrophic repercussions it brings upon the world. Side quests, too, are a blend of the fantastical and the familiar, with some weaving tales of magic, mythical beasts, and divine entities, while others delve into more authentic medieval themes such as poverty, famine, and social stratification.

4. Middle-Earth: Shadow Of War

Satisfying Combat, Varied Approach

Open-world RPG set in Middle-earth
Satisfying, well-refined, and varied combat
Expansive skill tree

Ally with Talion, a human bound by a wraith, in his mission to safeguard J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth from malevolence. Equipped with the abilities granted by his wraith companion, Talion possesses extraordinary powers that enable him to counteract the orc-occupied territories of Mordor and beyond.

One of the standout features of this game lies in its exceptional combat system. It’s not only responsive but also extremely satisfying, offering a wide range of experiences. From clashing against orc foot soldiers, towering generals, to battling colossal monsters, each fight offers a unique experience due to constantly changing settings, threats, and environmental risks. The combat is so immersive that it rewards precise timing with powerful combos and spectacular finishing moves.

Despite the extraordinary abilities this game bestows upon its players, it can be quite merciless! Overestimating one’s skills is often fatal, particularly on higher levels of difficulty. Death results in time progression, which may lead to a character that the player intended to capture already being defeated by the time they respawn. Shadow Of War offers an intricate skill system for players to explore, mastery of which allows them to mount dragons and charge into battle!

3. The Witcher 3

Endless Variety, Brutal Setting

Slavic mythos-inspired dark fantasy RPG
Incredibly diverse combat
Gritty realistic medieval setting

Embark on an adventure with Geralt of Rivia through the Slavic folklore-based realms of The Witcher 3. The dark fantasy landscape is plagued by chaos and devastation, whether from the swords of warring humans, elves, and dwarves, or the teeth of fearsome creatures. Nowhere is sanctuary to be found, especially not for Geralt, a reviled outcast called a Witcher.

In “The Witcher 3,” I find myself immersed in an extraordinary combat system that’s bursting with choices. From honing my fighting abilities, wielding powerful spells, brewing potions and tonics, to enhancing my weapons with coatings, the game offers a plethora of ways for me to tailor my battle style. If I’m feeling bold and reckless, I can dive headfirst into fights against formidable enemies at a disadvantage. But if I prefer a more strategic approach, I can spend time understanding my opponents, crafting potions, and equipping lethal weapon coatings, turning me into a beastly monster hunter. However, no matter the strategy, I always need to stay agile, ready to adjust on the fly as the course of battle is constantly shifting.

The medieval atmosphere of The Witcher series plays a crucial role, serving as an authentic stage to portray the genuine brutality and horror that characterize this universe. Similar to historical events in our world, war, disease, discrimination, and famine are widespread, affecting both good and evil indiscriminately. This is not a fairy-tale world, but rather an accurate depiction of reality, despite its numerous fantasy aspects.

2. Mount & Blade 2: Bannerlord

Battle Altering Power, Expansive Medieval World

Open-world strategy RPG
Players participate actively in battles
Carve out a destiny in a realistic medieval world

In a vividly crafted medieval universe that mirrors our own, I find myself immersed in an open-world RPG, shaping my journey as the protagonist. Initially, I step into the shoes of a greenhorn adventurer, granted with the freedom to roam, battle, or diplomatically navigate through this world. The friendships and rivalries I forge are entirely up to me – whenever, wherever, whomever I choose. There’s no predetermined objective; instead, it’s the challenges and goals I set that drive my adventure forward.

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve got to say that diving into the Mount & Blade series feels like stepping right into the heart of medieval action. With just my trusty weapon strapped on my back and a steadfast steed beneath me, I’m ready to alter history itself, turning even the most hopeless battles around. The combat is relentlessly gritty, pitting me against waves of enemy soldiers in brutal, ground-level skirmishes. To aid me in this epic journey, there’s a vast selection of weapons, armor, and gear to pick from – each piece offering unique pros and cons that can make or break my strategy.

In the heart of Mount & Blade 2, the game’s medieval environment serves as the foundation for the entire series. The gameplay is centered around players making a mark, be it as a mercenary, plunderer, or leader of a nation. This dynamic, which is deeply rooted in the game’s medieval setting – a world marked by struggle – is what propels those who do not strive for glory into obscurity.

1. Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

Realistic Combat, Brutal Warfare

Realistic medieval open-world RPG
Combat requires precision and strategy
Plot directly explores the horrors of medieval warfare

In this authentic role-playing game set in an open world, players embark on Henry’s journey, driven by the desire for vengeance after his family was brutally killed. This isn’t a realm where battles are carelessly fought or glory is casually sought; instead, it’s a harsh environment marked by brutal violence and relentless struggles for survival on a daily basis.

In this game, blindly pressing buttons won’t cut it – strategy is the key. It’s less about brute strength and more about precision, timing, and knowing when to hold back. Fighting multiple foes can be a deadly trap for beginners, and even seasoned warriors should think twice before jumping into a battle, no matter how powerful my character, Henry, becomes.

This game primarily thrives on the theme of medieval combat, and its narrative aims to expose the grim truth behind warfare. Neither the player nor Henry can escape this truth – there’s no enchantment to resurrect the deceased or prevent calamities, nor a clearly malevolent adversary to band against. Instead, it portrays people killing one another, fueling a cycle of revenge and brutality.

2025-02-17 08:16

Top Medieval Battles: Skyrim to Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 – Ranked!