Video Game Review: Broken Sword – Shadow of the Templars: Director’s cut for the Wii

Now, it’s time to review one of the classic “point and click” adventures of our time.  This game probably pre-dates the Sam and Max seasonal games, definitely pre-dates Zack and Wiki, and surprisingly made its way to the Wii, if any home console.  It has a feel of the Carmen Sandiego games with a bit of Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew to it, in my view.  It also is the final adventure game I will review for this blog as it is the last one I’ve played fully and/or own (sorry Walking Dead fans, I’ve only gotten through the first two episodes).  So, let’s dive in to one of the hidden gems of adventure, Broken Sword: Shadow of the Templars.

Graphics

The graphics in this game reflect the level of graphics the game was made with some years ago.  It seems as if this is or was a game that ran on early Windows XP or late Windows 2000.  This means that there will be pixilation on a bigger screen, along with blurriness in certain areas.  Basically, if you want it to look remotely good for the graphics they have, get a smaller television, or play it on a computer.  With that said, the graphics, albeit stretched in certain areas, are not the worst.  I believe there is some slow-down or stalling when you try to point at different icons on different screens.  I haven’t detected many drops in frame rate, either.  Also, the pre-rendered images are also incredibly drawn.

Sound

The sound is impeccable, for starters.   The game takes full advantage of the digital sound feature as virtually all sounds are clear and crystal.  I still remember hearing a barfly sneezing due to hay fever and how well it sounded.  The voice acting is also solid.  It’s not over-the-top, in any way.  It does seem a bit underwhelming at times, as it does seem like there is little to no enthusiasm when it is needed.  I do applaud the humor from our protagonists.  Other than that, the musical score is enchanting.  It helps add to the atmosphere and settings represented in the game.

Control

Hey, guess what?  Just grab your Wiimote, point and click.  ‘Nuff said.  Moving on.   I’m kidding.  The game allows for virtually all buttons on the Wiimote to be used in context to the situation you are in.  The game is strong with context-sensitive situations.  Basically, the pointer changes based on what you are pointing at, and rather smoothly.  Also, there’s no need to run from point A to point B as the game has a pace of a slow, investigative one.  After all, you are trying to find information and you can’t leave any stone unturned.  So, there you go.

Etc.

The story of this game starts off simple enough.  In fact, as the director’s cut, it starts off as it should have, when it should have.  The original game started with the male lead, George.  However, for the director’s cut, it started with Nico Collard.  Initially, she has an interview with a famous celebrity, which ends in murder at the hands of a mime.  Ironically enough, George’s tale starts off with an explosion in a public place, where a clown in doing some street acting.  George and Nico cross paths ultimately, learning how their incidents have a connection.  Once they delve deeper, they realize there is something bigger and more dangerous at the helm, involving the fabled, mysterious Knights Templars, with a secret that the two are close to uncovering.  Sounds impressive, yes?  The game’s lasting appeal lies with the game’s story.  It’s engrossing, deep, and very entertaining.  It’s one of those classics that remain close to your heart due to all the work that went into making the story accessible and enjoyable on many levels.   The extras in here, based on what I recall, have to do with profiles on each character, some art, and I believe some developer diaries.  It’s not much, but it’s enough to tie a ribbon on the game.  Sadly, the sequel has only been released on the PS console, along with PC.  The Wii may not see a sequel in the rest of its run.

Final Verdict

This is one of the rare gems you should own if you’re a fan of these types of games, or if you want to become a fan of such, other than games from the Monkey Island franchise.  It’s a fine tale filled with suspense, humor, danger, romance, and puzzles.  It’s a great find for the PC, and if you own the Wii, you should definitely pick this one up.  It’s a fine game to round out the adventure games you own for the Wii.

Well, that was fun.  So, now what?  Hmm….perhaps we need to look into the forgotten gems in gaming that I know…..or are they forgettable?