As we’ve seen over the years, just about any genre of game will work on mobile devices. Of course, there are some obstacles; gesture-based controls schemes sometimes don’t work too well and, as cool as the Game Centre is, it’s not as cohesive as the online networks we’re used to on consoles and PC.
Still, touchscreen controls and fragmented multiplayer integration is enough to get many mobile games off the ground, Lionheart Tactics included. This simple yet expansive turn-based RPG makes the most of what iOS devices have to offer, with publisher Kongregrate looking to release Android and PC versions somewhere down the line.
Though there is a narrative underpinning the core game, it’s superfluous and only serves those who can actually bond with Lionheart’s myriad characters. With that said the dialogue can sometimes induce the occasionally guffaw as you wait to jump into battle.
This is where you’ll be spending most of your game time in Lionheart Tactics. Each skirmish is laid out on a battlefield, divided into grids use to measure both move distance and attack range. However, instead moving each unit individually, a player issues all of their commands and then signals the end the turn, their opponent then following suit. It’s simple and effective, though doesn’t afford as much finesse compared to other, more in-depth tactical RPGs.
Aside from default melee and ranged attacks, heroes have a healthy stock of abilities to cycle through, determined by their character class. Lancers are tankish brutes with an improved melee range; archers can nip at foes from afar; bishops can protect and heal; the thief can dodge and multi-strike etc. etc.
Winning a battle in the game’s campaign mode will open the doors to another set of skirmishes, while also showering players with items and gold. These two combined allow you to customise your squad, with each character having four equipment slots. Gold can also be used to buy new heroes as well as upgrade skills.
A couple of hours in and you will steadily be building your own dream. No doubt, by then, you will have uncovered one of Lionheart’s less savoury features. For those who haven’t guessed it already, the game employs real-time training and healing systems. If your troops get roughed up in battle, they will need a time out. If you’re upgrading their skills then they need another time out.
There is a way of speeding this process up but, predictably, not without parting with some real cash. Gotcha.
The only other area in which the game slightly falls down are its visuals. The artwork is great, as are the UI and menus, but the in-game graphics are somewhat basic. Though they’re pleasantly vibrant and cartoon-like, the aerial spectacle of each fantasy battle can get repetitive after a while.
Admittedly, this is not the next must-have mobile title, and not by a long shot, but Lionheart Tactics is still a great way to kill a few hours.