Broken Sword (Circle of Blood)

Game review

Broken Sword: The Shadow of the Templars, also known as Circle of Blood in the United States, is a point-and-click adventure game released in 1996. Set in a beautifully crafted world that blends history with fiction, the game stands as a milestone in the adventure game genre.

The game follows the story of George Stobbart, an American tourist in Paris, who finds himself embroiled in a mysterious and dangerous conspiracy after witnessing a bomb explosion at a café. Joined by French journalist Nicole Collard, George embarks on an intriguing adventure that takes him across Europe and into the heart of ancient mysteries surrounding the Knights Templar.

The gameplay in Broken Sword is typical of point-and-click adventures, involving exploring various locations, interacting with characters, collecting items, and solving a wide range of puzzles. These puzzles are cleverly integrated into the storyline, challenging players' problem-solving skills without interrupting the narrative flow.

Visually, the game is a masterpiece, with beautifully hand-drawn backgrounds and character animations that bring each scene to life. The art style captures the essence of each European location, from the bustling streets of Paris to the serene countrysides, adding depth and authenticity to the player's journey.

Broken Sword: The Shadow of the Templars is a captivating narrative experience that has left a lasting impact on the adventure genre. Its combination of engaging storytelling, challenging puzzles, stunning visuals, and memorable characters make it a classic that continues to be celebrated by fans around the world.