15 hours in , agree that the weak part is the abbey part , sometimes you just want to jump to the next fight , but I do like some things about this social interaction zones, it gives you a break in between fights and you can easily get 3 + hours sessions without noticing. I do recommend this game a lot, very fun , and as jake says , not overly complicated but with the right amount of meat.
This is the kind of game that I hope has a trial available for people who are unsure about the gameplay. I'm curious about it, but I'm not sure if I'd like it.
In the same boat here. Jake makes the combat sound way better than it looks and that gives me hope that Firaxis found some way to make a great strategy game with card based combat.
I think this is how reviews in general should be done. You accept what the game is and describe it, rather than treating what you wanted the game to be as the only good outcome for what the can is allowed to be. You don't ignore what you wanted or expected, but you simply put that and the actual game side by side as equals.
These before you buys are legit one of the few reviews I’ll listen too. They always seem genuine, what’s good about the game, what’s bad about it. They’re like detailed pros and cons lists and I love it.
Yeah I hate Bias reviews like Im a comic fan and I think its a 10 lol I hate those reviews. This one was amazing he said he loves comics but he also tried to find what makes it great and what doesn't. They did it well
Right?! They are the GOAT when it comes to game reviews. Gameranx is honest and will give it to you straight. No fluff, no holds barred, and overall just great reviews and information. They will always trump IGN, GameRant, and others.
I love your Before You Buy video's, even for games that aren't necessarily on my radar 😄 I always feel like you provide just the right amount of gameplay content to watch, combined with your genuine thoughts on these games, without overhyping it or being extremely negative about it.
Been waiting for this review. It's like Firaxis literally made whatever they wanted lol. Love to see freedom of ideas in AAA side of gaming. I would wait for sale as I'm only interested in combat.
@@CM-hi4db lol.. it's only money haha. Not that it bothers me. To me it's about how much you get out of entertainment. Movies with gf or significant other with popcorn and a soda is like 50 dollars for 2 hours of entertainment.
I realized what I love about this channel - I never feel advertised to. When there’s bias - you’re honest. That alone is worth it’s weight and gold and for that I thank you
I have put 40 hours into it and absolutely loving every moment of it.. Combat feels good and I have thought this deeply about deck building and strategy since going for legend rank in Hearthstone.. Not for everyone but definitely for me.
@@opiumo. the ultimate edition comes with a good majority of extra hero costumes on top of future DLC. If you are COMPLETELY certain you will like Midnight Suns and are happy to engage with the terms the game puts down then yes.. I think its worth it.
How much sense does it make to have all the enemies and heroes standing in place during a fight while you try to set up one character to do an animated attack?
Would LOVE a demo for thus kind of game. I feel it’s so specific of a style that a lot of people will be on the fence of committing to a full priced purchase right of the gate.
I really want to give this one a shot. The whole social aspect was something I didn’t even know was in the game. I don’t know if I can justify full price though
its on sale on steam right now. the season pass and all is included for 66 but base game is 20 rn. I just hit 95 hours in the game, which is super rare for me. highly recommend it.
Personally the Abbey sessions are hit or miss, too much quantity not enough quality, the combat also lacks variety in enemy types and different objectives, is not noticeable until half of the campaign but from there it started to drag for me. Also, for those who enjoy the social aspects in Persona or Mass Effect, there's no romance for your character, so be warned, friendzone is the further you'll get with anybody. Those things said, the gameplay is really strong, is a surprisingly well crafted hybrid of turn based and deck building game. The cast is also a high in my view, diversified, interesting with different skills and synergies. There's some mysteries surrounding the Abbey's history and a chunky hub area to explore too. I hope this title gets traction with time because this first attempt is a rough gem with A LOT of potential. With less grind, better writing with less quantity and more quality, more variety to missions and some chores reduced or removed it could easily reach the heights of games like Dragon Age and Mass Effect, in its own way. I liked it a lot, hope you enjoy it too, and that Firaxis achieves it's goals to expand this first one and eventually make another.
Im a year late, but just picked this up on a bit of a whim and loving it! The first 2/3 hours (aka: the introduction) are a bit tedious to push through, but not the game has opened up, I’m really enjoying! Never played anything like this before and wasn’t sure it would be for me, but I’m glad it’s worked out! I think I’m one of the few that enjoys the gameplay loop (morning spent upgrading, battling, evening spent boosting friendships and exploring) - but understand people wanting to just battle.
This one is up in the air for me. Might be a $15-20 buy for me, but this review definitely gave me some good insight into the positives and negatives. Always love me a good Before You Buy 👍🏻
A good AAA game is worth far more than that just considering the work/development/effort/passion the developers put into it alone, and then when you consider how long a game like this is the $ per hour value is always high. Basically you're a cheapskate.
@@cenciende9401 mate this game is literally ported from their phone game so no he's not a cheapskate he's a person with a brain. If you don't know why its "turn based" its cause they gave zero interest in making something new its called making sheeps buy their old junk to get money just like EA does it.
@@cenciende9401 the only AAA games worth more than $60 are from rockstar. i wouldnt pay a dime over $60 for any other developer... maybe valve. cheapskate he says, lol you must be horrible with your money. bet you paid sticker price for your car.
I am absolutely horrid at tactical RPGs usually but this just feels and plays so good for casual tactical players like myself. Enjoying it a lot so far with its Mass Effect-styled conversations and deck-building RPG mechanics.
Yea I love this game thank God for firaxis, less stressful than xcom2, but still very challenging n just enough sitting there for 10 mins thinking out your next move before u get pummeled by Scarlett witch
@@LegendsForever206 adjective 1. very unpleasant or disagreeable. "the teachers at school were horrid" Similar: nasty horrible disagreeable unpleasant awful dreadful
This game has been on my radar for a long time: love the concept love superheroes I loved Xcom 2. Callisto Protocol is also dropping on the same day. I was hoping Jake Baldino would help me as I know I'll purchase both games over time its more about which one do I play this weekend. I loved this review I can't wait to play, that being said. Callisto Protocol will be getting my money first. Thanks Jake, I appreciate you. Can't wait to watch this video again after I purchase Midnight Suns.
I just bought the legendary version of the game for $49.00 and I am very happy with the purchase, I'm 3 days in and can't stop playing it... Really it's nice to play something different besides just another open world snooze fest or first person shooter.....
Legendary edition is on deal for 40 was thinking about getting it I mean for the price I think it's worth it because the season pass itself is 50 so I pay 40 for the game and all content but I prefer story games is the story any good I know cards blah blah blah but I haven't heard anyone talk about the story?
If you like turn based games and like Marvel then you’ll love this game! The story is very comprehensive and there’s a tonne of character development, so much hate going on because the game is turn based which I don’t get because we’ve known this for a long time now and there has been so many beat em up button mashing Marvel games over the years and this one feels different in a very good way, been having an absolute blast with this game
Yh these comments have convinced me to try it. Love turn based and marvel and liked xcom and 2 although the damn timer completely put me off being fully invested in 2.
Watched many videos from these series and genuinely appreciate that there are consistent improvements; specifically with the delivery and breaking down the content in this one. Wish you all the best and much love from Pakistan.
Before You Buy might be the best gaming series on TH-cam. Thank you Gameranx for convincing me, many times to buy some of my favorite games ever (Control and Astral Chain), that I definitely wouldn't have without your videos!!!
Love this channel because I had zero idea this game even existed until this video. The Persona social elements is something that really appeals to me, so I'm excited to see it in a Marvel setting
I’ve never tried this type of game before and it looked terrible. But I’m a few hours in and I’m hooked. It’s a slower paced game but I really like it. If I weren’t a huge marvel dork I probably wouldn’t like it as much though
I'm likely to play this sometime down the track just not now. With all the social interactions, team combat, and base building I'm surprised they didn't make an X-men game. That seems like a better fit.
It’s the right idea but wrong game choice , a new classic remake of the classic X-men games from back in the day would have been a better choice not no turn based , card strategy game
never played xcom games but the tactical combat reminds me a little of divinity original sin 2. also i love just hanging out with "squad members", mass effect style. this game was never on my radar but now it is, seems really interesting. thanks gameranx
I think the cards system and deck building mixed with battles looks great and this stuff I thought looked a bit silly or cringe I’m guessing is silly and cringe at times but tolerable. So maybe ill check it out after all. Most looking forward to playing as Magik, Nico, Wanda…and excited to see who they bring to the game in the future because I feel like the DLC’s are already lined up to be pretty interesting with Storm, Deadpool, Morbius, and Venom. I’d like to see Rogue maybe Jean Grey.
I love Xcom with all my heart so I was pretty excited when they announced it. I know they're trying to do their own thing and not just be an Xcom clone, but I'm willing to give this a shot because I trust the developer.
The storytelling and use of underrated Marvel characters makes this sound absolutely up my alley. I’ve never been a fan of turn-based games though, as it really ruins pacing for me. Hopefully we’ll see more action-adventure stuff like this that ISN’T half-assed cash grabs like “Marvel’s Avengers” in the future. Ultimate Alliance 1 comes to mind…
I still think the best Marvel game in recent times (PS4 Spider-man aside), was the very underrated Ultimate Alliance 3 on the Switch.Gameplay was great. And it featured so many great underrated CB characters..
What I like most about this release is that Fire Axis can finally work on XCOM 3 in earnest which I'm sure many more are looking forward to over this. It's understandable why they picked this project and IP as it was a huge opportunity and if it helps them get new ideas and improve their creative skills toward XCOM 3 then I'm all for it.
Does not seem that way. There is a 30 hour story and then around 80 hours of side missions and end game content but it doesn't seem like those are needed.
I've been playing everyday since release, there are not micro transactions, besides some cosmetics, but the rest is unlockable. Those micro transactions are legendary edition content, so it's like you're paying for those special skins either way. Definitely up to the individual. All the game play, including the cards are in the game, you can't buy them with real money. No worries.
It's just costumes, but you can't buy cards. The costumes for sale are legendary edition costumes, they were all included with that edition, and you can buy them individually if you wanted. However, all the cards and gameplay is in the game. Also, all the unlockable suits are better than the legendary edition stuff.
The fact that they have Nico and Magik surprises me, especially having Magik. She’s has such little representation outside comics that I wouldn’t be surprised if this is her first mainstream appearance.
I remember Nico & Magik from playing Avengers Alliance in the early '10s. It was a social game, and they definitely had their vocal fans in the chat, but I don't know how popular the game was overall.
I slept on it for a while and never bought it because of the criticism. When it went free and I actually tried it, the strategy game was actually fire, those angry fans were chattin their heads off ☠️🙏
One thing I love about Firaxis is that they trully care about thier DLCs. I still remmember the hate Civ 6 got when it first released, but after all the DLCs, the game drastically improved and become my main Civ game nowadays. (Still, give more research for your AI please 😢) I hope this is also the case for Midnight Suns.
yeah, I had two buddies tell me they love it. I find it underwhelming. I find the battles to be fairly boring and basic. Enemies just pound you. Testing out new cards is difficult because battles can just go south because of the objectives and you dont have enough hero points. The story is garbage. Hunter and Caretaker suck. Flat out. Magik is fun. Other than that the takes on every character are bad. Im really tired of every take on Ironman now having to be a riff off of RDJs version. I love marvel stuff, but a midnight suns game...with like 6 magic characters. They could have just used Elsa Bloodstone. lilith as an invented bad guy? Yeah, its not like Loki, Enchantress, Dispayre, Mephisto, and on and on dont exist to use as bad guys. Mordo? It feels like the writers wrote a story and then folded marvel things in. And poorly. My buddies are platinuming it...im just slogging through on principal. I like turned based strategy, i like marvel. But geez this game feels like it was written as bad fan fic.
i just bought this game january 2024 and probably have spent nearly 100 hours of it as of early february 2024. if you like marvel comics, card games, and very tactical heavy rpg's, then this is the game for you. also, there was no way this game was going to get noticed when it released in the same year as elden ring and god of war ragnarok.
You know what makes gameranx superior to most other reviewers? They don't give you a score they just tell you what they liked, what they didn't like, and most importantly admit biases.
The problem with tedious animation exists in XCOM as well, but I usually get a mod aptly called "Stop Wasting My Time" to fix that. Hope this game gets similar modding support.
I didn’t know this game came out. The combat looks cool, the hub world stuff looks about as good as the ship or citadel in Mass Effect. I’ll wait for it on sale but definitely a buy for me. Thanks Jake
as someone who loves visual novels and jrpgs this is prolly partly up my alley, i just cant get past the part that from what i have seen of the visuals and the actual combat it feels like an upscaled mobile game. i will prolly get it eventually once i whittle down my backlog and or it goes on sale at least
I personally feel like it's a _very_ poor introduction to this genre. XCOM is where it's at (also made by the Firaxis) and it represents the genre in the best ways possible.
I love before you buy, videos when this game was announced I was super excited, but after seeing the gameplay and the combat I think I'm going to have to pass on this one it should have been a darker version of ultimate alliance that would have been awesome. Thanks again you guys Love your videos keep up the great job.
This game looks fun to me and I've been torn on getting it. The only thing deterring me is all the weird friendship stuff, I know these characters from comics I don't feel like I need to have in depth conversations teaching Blade how to talk to women. I'm curious as to how much of the game relies on building these friendships.
I really want to give this game a shot because it's a tactical RPG with Marvel heros, but my favorite character isn't on the roster. I was wondering, just how limited is the character creator? and will there be multiple in game currencies?
20+ hours in and im loving it The fact Blade starts a book club to get with Capt Marvel and Capt America overhearing it and being a third wheel is endlessly hilarious to me
I get how not having a massive deck is not always a good thing….can’t have a small deck also. You need just the right size deck to get the job done correctly. I completely agree Jake.
I love turn based strategy but this game feels kinda like more than than that. The story and the interactions with all of the characters is something I wasn't expecting but I was pleasantly surprised with the pacing of it all. It's also aided by the all star cast. Matt Mercer, Laura Bailey, Steve Blum, Michael Jai White, Fred Tatasciore, Yuri Lowenthal, Jennifer Hale. It just enhances it all for me.
I love the combat in this game. I hate exploring woods of the abbey. The friendship stuff is okay but none of that leads to any romance bonuses which is a little sad. Some of the costume or XP gains are pretty good even if costly but all in all it’s kinda fun because the combat can be challenging and I’m excited to see the characters and abilities grow.
You can save much time with the abbey stuff if u use fast travel and just check out the chests. Since they refresh only after a few days z don't have to run through the whole abbey every night. The little orbs with the upgrade essence spawn just inside the abbey and the training court, so u don't have to run through the woods to look for those.
It's sad that they could have made a marvel game with XCOM gameplay that sounds cool...instead we get a card battle system and no XCOM gameplay way to miss the mark.
From Falcon To Jake ; our hosts never fail to bring us top content. Keep up the good and consistent work guys !!👍 P.S: Awaiting the Before You Buy for Callisto as well. Super Hyped.
When this was announced, I was really hoping it was an action game similar to Gotham Knights or a multiplayer Sony's Spiderman. I was kind of heartbroken when I saw it was a strategy game.
I don't usually sub much as the channels tend too change to much but I have too say you guys haven't failed too give reviews that I trust, your my go too for finding out if a game is worth it 😁
Really excited for this one. I’m a big fan of Fire Emblem Three Houses so character bonding and lore with turn based matches in between sounds right up my alley. Plus I love Marvel. Thanks for the video!
Thank you for the review. As a huge fan of Johnny Blaze it was definitely a check mark against it for not having him as Ghost Rider. Now that I've seen your review I definitely know it's a pass for me. If they have the Midnight Son's (yes that's how it was spelled in the comic) complaining about living in the Avengers shadow, then the writers of the game don't understand them at all. Thank you for saving me some cash.
So basically it has nothing to do with the midnight suns storyline, I could live with that but the card thing I dunno. I was hoping it was gonna be xcom meets marvel.
I had no idea that I wasn't subscribed. Shame on me. I've watched so many of your videos and they've helped me make decisions on to buy or not. This one is 100% not my style of game and had it not been for your video, I'd made a wasteful purchase. I appreciate these videos more than you know! 🙏
I actually grew more interested in this game when they dropped their gameplay video earlier in the year. This just solidifies my desire to buy the game.
Im not a fan of the genre but im going to play this day one because i like playing this type of games ones in awhile very relaxing tactical rpg plus Marvel characters
Yeah that's when I got interested in it around the summer. I had heard about i tearlier but initiall ydismissed i tbecause I thought it was going t obe moer one of those Fifa Ultimate team like games heavy on the micro transactions and no single player stuff. But tha twas before I was familiasr with the devs since the summe rit's completely did a 180 on me. Mostly because suprehero RPG's are extremely rare at least in video game form so to have 2 this year has been great if you count Gotham Knights as well. The fact this is a tactical RPG game that has Superheroes is right up my alley. It's nice to see someone do something a little different than your general action superhero game whic hevreyon eelse tends to make wher you bea t6 enemies in a room so you move into the nex troom and there are 10 waiting for you. I'm not saying thre's anythin gwrong with those types of games as I enjoy them too I'm just sayin gthat it's good that someone has been willing and allowed to take these charactres and has been allowed t od osometthing unique and different with them by mixing a supr hero story and mixing it in with a tactical gam estructure wher it's more about making the right moves to get throug ha fightrather than constant QTE button mashing mechanics that the actoin ones have sa that can be monotonous after a while.
I'm all for Firaxis going out of Xcom tactics and developing new ways to play RTS but I'm just so burned out with Marvel superhero stuff right now that that's the only thing stopping me from buying this game. If this were set in a completely different universe (like how cool will a power rangers game like this would be?) I'd totallllyyy love this game. For now, I'd probably wait until an inevitable sale.
I'm in two minds I hope they bring more content down the line I may not pick it up straight away but I'm pretty sure I will be buying it at some point next year
Well I can genuinely say I'm glad this channel exists. Makes games I would normally ignore fall somewhere in my radar
Agree
much appreciated, glad we can help
Absolutely agree I had heard but I thought it wouldn't be very interesting. In the end it's on my watchlist for a sale.
Absolutely. I wouldn't have bought Evil West if I hadn't seen Gameranx's Before You Buy on it.
@@MildewedDuke amazing game. I would actually put it higher on my goty year contenders than most of the actual nominations lol.
I don't know how this channel is maintaining this much consistency over the years. Kudos to Jake, Falcon and all others working behind the content.
I could use a little less of falcon whining on video but at least the 'before you buys' are incredibly objective and helpful
@@zeroomens9438regardless Falcon is extremely consistent and his energy is never lackluster in any video! I feel you but I still love falcon
@@zeroomens9438 it levels out Jake's hard to decipher critiques aha 😂 Falcon whines and Jake tries to find a glimmer of hope in the most hopeless
when theres an endless supply of games, the content just comes easily. pretty simple really lol
Shut up, it’s their job to play video games and make videos about it
Even if I have no interest in a game, I always watch these videos. Thanks for the consistent gaming content 🙏
that's awesome. we appreciate it. thanks!
Same here bro. I discovered these guys about a year ago, never miss a video
Same 🤣 they saved me some money, introduced me fromsoft…very beneficial to watch
Who is here after it's free on epic games
man! what a waste!
@@StudioUAC its free on epic
now
It is free now
its free rn
@@Clay0000 is it worth downloading and playing?
tbh i was hoping for a big AAA title such as rdr4 far cry watch dogs or smth not this shitty game
15 hours in , agree that the weak part is the abbey part , sometimes you just want to jump to the next fight , but I do like some things about this social interaction zones, it gives you a break in between fights and you can easily get 3 + hours sessions without noticing. I do recommend this game a lot, very fun , and as jake says , not overly complicated but with the right amount of meat.
This is the kind of game that I hope has a trial available for people who are unsure about the gameplay. I'm curious about it, but I'm not sure if I'd like it.
it's a tough sell. people need to get their hands on it first
In the same boat here. Jake makes the combat sound way better than it looks and that gives me hope that Firaxis found some way to make a great strategy game with card based combat.
@@alexfarrell3250 Firaxis knows what they are doing. They have a great track record.
Steam has a 2 hour of gameplay refund policy if you get it from them
Yeah, this needs a demo.
I think this is how reviews in general should be done. You accept what the game is and describe it, rather than treating what you wanted the game to be as the only good outcome for what the can is allowed to be. You don't ignore what you wanted or expected, but you simply put that and the actual game side by side as equals.
These before you buys are legit one of the few reviews I’ll listen too. They always seem genuine, what’s good about the game, what’s bad about it. They’re like detailed pros and cons lists and I love it.
Same
Same dude. Way better than ign's reviews where their opinions come off as either payed or uninspired and unprofessional
Yeah I hate Bias reviews like Im a comic fan and I think its a 10 lol I hate those reviews.
This one was amazing he said he loves comics but he also tried to find what makes it great and what doesn't. They did it well
Right?! They are the GOAT when it comes to game reviews. Gameranx is honest and will give it to you straight. No fluff, no holds barred, and overall just great reviews and information. They will always trump IGN, GameRant, and others.
Yep cuz it's like they actually played it and are talking about their experience too
i know why you here
Just claimed it
🎉
LMAOOO
Lol
@@SaksMahajan claimed it? 😮
I love your Before You Buy video's, even for games that aren't necessarily on my radar 😄
I always feel like you provide just the right amount of gameplay content to watch, combined with your genuine thoughts on these games, without overhyping it or being extremely negative about it.
👍🏼
Been waiting for this review. It's like Firaxis literally made whatever they wanted lol. Love to see freedom of ideas in AAA side of gaming. I would wait for sale as I'm only interested in combat.
at the very least, that's a win
It’s only $70
@@CM-hi4db lol.. it's only money haha. Not that it bothers me. To me it's about how much you get out of entertainment. Movies with gf or significant other with popcorn and a soda is like 50 dollars for 2 hours of entertainment.
@@CM-hi4db how much would it be 💀
@@CM-hi4db $70 ain't pocket change these days bud. At least for most of us
I realized what I love about this channel - I never feel advertised to.
When there’s bias - you’re honest.
That alone is worth it’s weight and gold and for that I thank you
No such thing as a review without bias.
@@DeltaAssaultGaming You mean there's no such thing as a review without *perspective* you can filter bias out.
@@DeltaAssaultGaming They didn't imply there was. They said when the bias is present, they're honest about it.
This channel is becoming the gold standard on a buy at full price or wait for it to go on sale thing and I love it.
It’s been like that for a good couple years already bruh😭
Every game is a wait for a sale. Games are overpriced.
@@EternalNightingale he must be new thinking he is here at some beginning.
@michael sitko Absolutely agree. Think the last thing I bought full price was Ghost of Tsushima and it wasn't worth the price either
True but with this game I am still very much in doubt whether I should buy it or not even with this review. This game needs a demo badly
I have put 40 hours into it and absolutely loving every moment of it.. Combat feels good and I have thought this deeply about deck building and strategy since going for legend rank in Hearthstone.. Not for everyone but definitely for me.
is the ultimate edition worth it?
@@opiumo. the ultimate edition comes with a good majority of extra hero costumes on top of future DLC. If you are COMPLETELY certain you will like Midnight Suns and are happy to engage with the terms the game puts down then yes.. I think its worth it.
I don't like card games so definitely not fro me
How much sense does it make to have all the enemies and heroes standing in place during a fight while you try to set up one character to do an animated attack?
Combat?
Where's my PS Premium March Fam at?
You try the game yet?
@@coledobbs yea it's good if you like Xcom style of games
Right here.
I just bought it because I remembered when it was kinda big.
It’s just Mario + rabbids.
I didn't even bother downloading the game I streamed it to test it out as soon as I saw it was a card turn-based game I closed it out😂😂
These before you buy vids are always clutch. Thanks guys 🙏🏾
thank YOU
Would LOVE a demo for thus kind of game. I feel it’s so specific of a style that a lot of people will be on the fence of committing to a full priced purchase right of the gate.
If you have PS premium it’s on game trials
There is a a demo on xbox
Same with psn
It is kinda harder to find demos than it used to be
I played the trial but it’s not the kind of game that I enjoy playing
I really want to give this one a shot. The whole social aspect was something I didn’t even know was in the game. I don’t know if I can justify full price though
its on sale on steam right now. the season pass and all is included for 66 but base game is 20 rn. I just hit 95 hours in the game, which is super rare for me. highly recommend it.
Personally the Abbey sessions are hit or miss, too much quantity not enough quality, the combat also lacks variety in enemy types and different objectives, is not noticeable until half of the campaign but from there it started to drag for me. Also, for those who enjoy the social aspects in Persona or Mass Effect, there's no romance for your character, so be warned, friendzone is the further you'll get with anybody. Those things said, the gameplay is really strong, is a surprisingly well crafted hybrid of turn based and deck building game. The cast is also a high in my view, diversified, interesting with different skills and synergies. There's some mysteries surrounding the Abbey's history and a chunky hub area to explore too.
I hope this title gets traction with time because this first attempt is a rough gem with A LOT of potential.
With less grind, better writing with less quantity and more quality, more variety to missions and some chores reduced or removed it could easily reach the heights of games like Dragon Age and Mass Effect, in its own way.
I liked it a lot, hope you enjoy it too, and that Firaxis achieves it's goals to expand this first one and eventually make another.
Im a year late, but just picked this up on a bit of a whim and loving it!
The first 2/3 hours (aka: the introduction) are a bit tedious to push through, but not the game has opened up, I’m really enjoying!
Never played anything like this before and wasn’t sure it would be for me, but I’m glad it’s worked out!
I think I’m one of the few that enjoys the gameplay loop (morning spent upgrading, battling, evening spent boosting friendships and exploring) - but understand people wanting to just battle.
Really do appreciate the honest review you guys give. I like to hear the pros and the cons with these types of games
This one is up in the air for me. Might be a $15-20 buy for me, but this review definitely gave me some good insight into the positives and negatives. Always love me a good Before You Buy 👍🏻
Yeah definitely not worth $70
Free for pc 🥰
A good AAA game is worth far more than that just considering the work/development/effort/passion the developers put into it alone, and then when you consider how long a game like this is the $ per hour value is always high. Basically you're a cheapskate.
@@cenciende9401 mate this game is literally ported from their phone game so no he's not a cheapskate he's a person with a brain. If you don't know why its "turn based" its cause they gave zero interest in making something new its called making sheeps buy their old junk to get money just like EA does it.
@@cenciende9401 the only AAA games worth more than $60 are from rockstar. i wouldnt pay a dime over $60 for any other developer... maybe valve. cheapskate he says, lol you must be horrible with your money. bet you paid sticker price for your car.
I am absolutely horrid at tactical RPGs usually but this just feels and plays so good for casual tactical players like myself.
Enjoying it a lot so far with its Mass Effect-styled conversations and deck-building RPG mechanics.
Yea I love this game thank God for firaxis, less stressful than xcom2, but still very challenging n just enough sitting there for 10 mins thinking out your next move before u get pummeled by Scarlett witch
How are you horrid by tactical RPGs?
@@LegendsForever206 adjective
1.
very unpleasant or disagreeable.
"the teachers at school were horrid"
Similar:
nasty
horrible
disagreeable
unpleasant
awful
dreadful
This game has been on my radar for a long time: love the concept love superheroes I loved Xcom 2. Callisto Protocol is also dropping on the same day. I was hoping Jake Baldino would help me as I know I'll purchase both games over time its more about which one do I play this weekend. I loved this review I can't wait to play, that being said. Callisto Protocol will be getting my money first. Thanks Jake, I appreciate you. Can't wait to watch this video again after I purchase Midnight Suns.
Thanks! Callisto video coming soon
Free in epic games soon
I just bought the legendary version of the game for $49.00 and I am very happy with the purchase, I'm 3 days in and can't stop playing it... Really it's nice to play something different besides just another open world snooze fest or first person shooter.....
Legendary edition is on deal for 40 was thinking about getting it I mean for the price I think it's worth it because the season pass itself is 50 so I pay 40 for the game and all content but I prefer story games is the story any good I know cards blah blah blah but I haven't heard anyone talk about the story?
If you like turn based games and like Marvel then you’ll love this game! The story is very comprehensive and there’s a tonne of character development, so much hate going on because the game is turn based which I don’t get because we’ve known this for a long time now and there has been so many beat em up button mashing Marvel games over the years and this one feels different in a very good way, been having an absolute blast with this game
Yeah i dont usually like turn based rpgs but this one genuinely feels good to play and the randomized moves element helps keep every encounter fresh
@@thomasscott6146 I don't really even know whether to call it an rpg or strategy game!
I agree! It's even better, as well as less unforgiving, than Xcom 2...
Yh these comments have convinced me to try it. Love turn based and marvel and liked xcom and 2 although the damn timer completely put me off being fully invested in 2.
Because people don’t want to pay for a mobile game that can be free peoples thought it was going to be a ultimatel alliance game
Watched many videos from these series and genuinely appreciate that there are consistent improvements; specifically with the delivery and breaking down the content in this one. Wish you all the best and much love from Pakistan.
Before You Buy might be the best gaming series on TH-cam. Thank you Gameranx for convincing me, many times to buy some of my favorite games ever (Control and Astral Chain), that I definitely wouldn't have without your videos!!!
thanks!
Love this channel because I had zero idea this game even existed until this video. The Persona social elements is something that really appeals to me, so I'm excited to see it in a Marvel setting
👍🏼
I saw this game on Steam Epicgames, even TH-cam, but this is the first video that shows the actual gameplay WTF?
I’ve never tried this type of game before and it looked terrible. But I’m a few hours in and I’m hooked. It’s a slower paced game but I really like it. If I weren’t a huge marvel dork I probably wouldn’t like it as much though
👌🏼👍🏼
Not the kind of marvel game im looking for, but its great that you keep informing us consistently with no bs. Cheers!
Right. For the game to be a card type strategy game sucks
Hey, still better than Marvel's Avengers game.... right? xD
@@StressmanFIN okay it wasn't that bad but yeah but at least it lasted a bit longer
@@uchihaclan9507 I don't really get out to say that hate I think I was all right
Wish it were another Marvel Ultimate alliance type game
I'm likely to play this sometime down the track just not now.
With all the social interactions, team combat, and base building I'm surprised they didn't make an X-men game. That seems like a better fit.
It’s the right idea but wrong game choice , a new classic remake of the classic X-men games from back in the day would have been a better choice not no turn based , card strategy game
@@titustjmatthews796 Like what Activision did with X-men Legends? Yeah, only more fleshed out.
I hope a new X-men legends game gets announced
@@mickeymouse7726 just play ult alliance 1 2 or 3. all of them are pretty good, the first is the best though.
I was thinking the same thing. I guess they couldn't figure out a proper format for utilizing a Marvel universe setting so they went with what we got.
Love all of your videos this is my favorite series on TH-cam it helps me make decisions on buying games or not and I love it.
thanks! glad it helps
Glad this exists for people that are into this kind of game, but I really just want an open world action RPG set in the MCU
I'd rather have that based on the Marvel comics version of this characters I'm kinda tired of the MCU portrayal of these characters
@@mickeymouse7726 fr
never played xcom games but the tactical combat reminds me a little of divinity original sin 2. also i love just hanging out with "squad members", mass effect style. this game was never on my radar but now it is, seems really interesting. thanks gameranx
I enjoy playing divinity and that the same game style feels it gave me too
I think the cards system and deck building mixed with battles looks great and this stuff I thought looked a bit silly or cringe I’m guessing is silly and cringe at times but tolerable. So maybe ill check it out after all.
Most looking forward to playing as Magik, Nico, Wanda…and excited to see who they bring to the game in the future because I feel like the DLC’s are already lined up to be pretty interesting with Storm, Deadpool, Morbius, and Venom. I’d like to see Rogue maybe Jean Grey.
I love Xcom with all my heart so I was pretty excited when they announced it. I know they're trying to do their own thing and not just be an Xcom clone, but I'm willing to give this a shot because I trust the developer.
It's definitely different cause you don't have to worry about missing anything but you have to work with whatever you draw instead
The storytelling and use of underrated Marvel characters makes this sound absolutely up my alley.
I’ve never been a fan of turn-based games though, as it really ruins pacing for me. Hopefully we’ll see more action-adventure stuff like this that ISN’T half-assed cash grabs like “Marvel’s Avengers” in the future. Ultimate Alliance 1 comes to mind…
I would love an Ultimate Alliance 1 remake. Or just start a new series with the first game as heavy influence.
I still think the best Marvel game in recent times (PS4 Spider-man aside), was the very underrated Ultimate Alliance 3 on the Switch.Gameplay was great. And it featured so many great underrated CB characters..
The combat looks cool. Maybe I'll buy it. Great video as always!
thanks for watching!
the friend sim part isnt bad, & the combat/ card system is awesome, its holding my attention!
What I like most about this release is that Fire Axis can finally work on XCOM 3 in earnest which I'm sure many more are looking forward to over this.
It's understandable why they picked this project and IP as it was a huge opportunity and if it helps them get new ideas and improve their creative skills toward XCOM 3 then I'm all for it.
The only thing I was worried about with this game: is is like a live service style grindathon of mats to get cards or costumes or stuff like that?
Does not seem that way. There is a 30 hour story and then around 80 hours of side missions and end game content but it doesn't seem like those are needed.
From a couple other reviews, it sounds like the missions for item-shop currency can feel repetitive/grindy after 5-10hrs, but YMMV.
I've been playing everyday since release, there are not micro transactions, besides some cosmetics, but the rest is unlockable. Those micro transactions are legendary edition content, so it's like you're paying for those special skins either way. Definitely up to the individual. All the game play, including the cards are in the game, you can't buy them with real money. No worries.
It's just costumes, but you can't buy cards. The costumes for sale are legendary edition costumes, they were all included with that edition, and you can buy them individually if you wanted. However, all the cards and gameplay is in the game. Also, all the unlockable suits are better than the legendary edition stuff.
Dang, i thought this was going to be a ultimate allliance type game
same bro. glad i came here before i purchased it and been upset
Dude, we just got Ultimate Alliance like 3 years ago. Nice to see AAA developers making big budget strategy games
@@juansanchez209 facts
@@juansanchez209 we got it on the switch not on multi platforms tho..
Ill probably pick this up eventually but it definitely gives me bargain bin sale vibes.
The fact that they have Nico and Magik surprises me, especially having Magik. She’s has such little representation outside comics that I wouldn’t be surprised if this is her first mainstream appearance.
I remember Nico & Magik from playing Avengers Alliance in the early '10s. It was a social game, and they definitely had their vocal fans in the chat, but I don't know how popular the game was overall.
I slept on it for a while and never bought it because of the criticism. When it went free and I actually tried it, the strategy game was actually fire, those angry fans were chattin their heads off ☠️🙏
One thing I love about Firaxis is that they trully care about thier DLCs.
I still remmember the hate Civ 6 got when it first released, but after all the DLCs, the game drastically improved and become my main Civ game nowadays. (Still, give more research for your AI please 😢)
I hope this is also the case for Midnight Suns.
Love the honest review. I'm gonna pass on this game for now. Seems really interesting but they went in odd directions before the base was awesome.
yeah, I had two buddies tell me they love it. I find it underwhelming. I find the battles to be fairly boring and basic. Enemies just pound you. Testing out new cards is difficult because battles can just go south because of the objectives and you dont have enough hero points. The story is garbage. Hunter and Caretaker suck. Flat out. Magik is fun. Other than that the takes on every character are bad. Im really tired of every take on Ironman now having to be a riff off of RDJs version. I love marvel stuff, but a midnight suns game...with like 6 magic characters. They could have just used Elsa Bloodstone. lilith as an invented bad guy? Yeah, its not like Loki, Enchantress, Dispayre, Mephisto, and on and on dont exist to use as bad guys. Mordo? It feels like the writers wrote a story and then folded marvel things in. And poorly. My buddies are platinuming it...im just slogging through on principal. I like turned based strategy, i like marvel. But geez this game feels like it was written as bad fan fic.
Congrats to this channel. You did better showing this game then the actually game developers. Definitely gone check it out.
This game is right up my ally. Thank you for making this video. I kept seeing yourube shorts of spiderman and couldn't figure it out. You guys rock
i just bought this game january 2024 and probably have spent nearly 100 hours of it as of early february 2024. if you like marvel comics, card games, and very tactical heavy rpg's, then this is the game for you.
also, there was no way this game was going to get noticed when it released in the same year as elden ring and god of war ragnarok.
You know what makes gameranx superior to most other reviewers?
They don't give you a score they just tell you what they liked, what they didn't like, and most importantly admit biases.
The problem with tedious animation exists in XCOM as well, but I usually get a mod aptly called "Stop Wasting My Time" to fix that. Hope this game gets similar modding support.
I didn’t know this game came out. The combat looks cool, the hub world stuff looks about as good as the ship or citadel in Mass Effect. I’ll wait for it on sale but definitely a buy for me. Thanks Jake
as someone who loves visual novels and jrpgs this is prolly partly up my alley, i just cant get past the part that from what i have seen of the visuals and the actual combat it feels like an upscaled mobile game. i will prolly get it eventually once i whittle down my backlog and or it goes on sale at least
Hearing that I can go fishing with blade is now going to make want the game more
Never played this type of game but this will be my gateway to this genre
Gotta give the game and brand credit for bringing new players in
I personally feel like it's a _very_ poor introduction to this genre. XCOM is where it's at (also made by the Firaxis) and it represents the genre in the best ways possible.
@@donnydogpiss4533 but soldiers and guns are so boring compared to superheroes, super powers, and magic
My first time as well
@@donnydogpiss4533 Have you played this game before?
@@juansanchez209 I mean not really because XCOM does have magic science and high technology which is kinda like super powerz
Sounds like a game to buy on sale.
Really shocked they didn't have Moon Knight in this to start
😈 for real
Also morbius
Bought Midnight Suns and Subscribed because of this video! Great work, no frills, no bullshit, straight and to the point! I love it, keep it up!
I played a good amount of HeroClix back around 2004 - This game reminds me of that in a good way.
I love before you buy, videos when this game was announced I was super excited, but after seeing the gameplay and the combat I think I'm going to have to pass on this one it should have been a darker version of ultimate alliance that would have been awesome. Thanks again you guys Love your videos keep up the great job.
This game looks fun to me and I've been torn on getting it. The only thing deterring me is all the weird friendship stuff, I know these characters from comics I don't feel like I need to have in depth conversations teaching Blade how to talk to women. I'm curious as to how much of the game relies on building these friendships.
Thanks for the vid! Clear pros and cons, I'll buy it but on discount/2nd hand. It does seem my type of game but games are so expensive now a days :(
they definitely are. Thanks for watching regardless!
It's currently on sale and has Deadpool and Wolverine, I'm copping ut this friday
What do you think since you bought it???
Fishing with Blade, is something i didnt think I would be so happy to hear.
POV: you’re watching this coming back from the store even though the title says BEFORE YOU BUY
I was on the fence but after watching yet another before you buy, I’ve been convinced to buy midnight suns! Thanks guys
Thanks for watching
I really want to give this game a shot because it's a tactical RPG with Marvel heros, but my favorite character isn't on the roster. I was wondering, just how limited is the character creator? and will there be multiple in game currencies?
You got me at “Persona-like” and fishing with Blade
20+ hours in and im loving it
The fact Blade starts a book club to get with Capt Marvel and Capt America overhearing it and being a third wheel is endlessly hilarious to me
Captain Marvel has a nice back in this game. good on the censorship taking down the comments so I have to write things extra lame
it's pretty insane how thicc they make her. But as a man of culture I'm not complaining.
I get how not having a massive deck is not always a good thing….can’t have a small deck also. You need just the right size deck to get the job done correctly. I completely agree Jake.
That's what she said. Kind of.
I love these vids. Not planning on buying the game but watch anyway
thanks!
I love turn based strategy but this game feels kinda like more than than that. The story and the interactions with all of the characters is something I wasn't expecting but I was pleasantly surprised with the pacing of it all. It's also aided by the all star cast. Matt Mercer, Laura Bailey, Steve Blum, Michael Jai White, Fred Tatasciore, Yuri Lowenthal, Jennifer Hale. It just enhances it all for me.
Had this game in pre-order since Sept, now I'm even more excited about it.
I love the combat in this game. I hate exploring woods of the abbey. The friendship stuff is okay but none of that leads to any romance bonuses which is a little sad. Some of the costume or XP gains are pretty good even if costly but all in all it’s kinda fun because the combat can be challenging and I’m excited to see the characters and abilities grow.
You can save much time with the abbey stuff if u use fast travel and just check out the chests. Since they refresh only after a few days z don't have to run through the whole abbey every night.
The little orbs with the upgrade essence spawn just inside the abbey and the training court, so u don't have to run through the woods to look for those.
@@welovegamestv1207he’s probably talking about the quest that revolves around exploring the Abby grounds
@@FRICANRICANGAMING yes. that. super meh on that. but yea fast travelling around the abbey works well enough.
For a nanosecond I thought the new insomniac Wolverine game had a surprise release
imagine? 😯
First time commenting, thanks so much for the consistency with the reviews and my god do I love the lists videos. My favorite gaming channel. Cheers 🍺
Thanks for watching our videos
These vids make me choose games I wouldn’t and sometimes dodge ones I would usually choose! Thanks for keeping me informed
🤝
This is why you guys are my favorite channel on TH-cam
It's sad that they could have made a marvel game with XCOM gameplay that sounds cool...instead we get a card battle system and no XCOM gameplay way to miss the mark.
it's an almost but not quite. Didn't hate it but it could've been much cooler
@@gameranxTV Really agree
From Falcon To Jake ; our hosts never fail to bring us top content. Keep up the good and consistent work guys !!👍
P.S: Awaiting the Before You Buy for Callisto as well. Super Hyped.
When this was announced, I was really hoping it was an action game similar to Gotham Knights or a multiplayer Sony's Spiderman. I was kind of heartbroken when I saw it was a strategy game.
I don't usually sub much as the channels tend too change to much but I have too say you guys haven't failed too give reviews that I trust, your my go too for finding out if a game is worth it 😁
Truly, this channel is excellent. You all deserve a round of applause.
Thanks
Really excited for this one. I’m a big fan of Fire Emblem Three Houses so character bonding and lore with turn based matches in between sounds right up my alley. Plus I love Marvel. Thanks for the video!
Thank you for the review. As a huge fan of Johnny Blaze it was definitely a check mark against it for not having him as Ghost Rider. Now that I've seen your review I definitely know it's a pass for me. If they have the Midnight Son's (yes that's how it was spelled in the comic) complaining about living in the Avengers shadow, then the writers of the game don't understand them at all. Thank you for saving me some cash.
Looks like I've found the old comic guy
Johnny is in the game just not playable he's necessary for the plot
Everytime I want to buy a new game I come here.
thanks!
I normally don’t like card games
But this game is so good
Each time I see a game like this, I think about Marvels Heroes and my hope this will be the one that will scratch that itch.
So basically it has nothing to do with the midnight suns storyline, I could live with that but the card thing I dunno. I was hoping it was gonna be xcom meets marvel.
Your videos are so helpful thank you. You have saved so many people from wasting there hard earned cash. 💸 💰 😁👍
thanks! glad we can help
Do you know how much money you guys have saved me? I honestly feel like I owe you guys..excellent video as usual!!!
I had no idea that I wasn't subscribed. Shame on me. I've watched so many of your videos and they've helped me make decisions on to buy or not. This one is 100% not my style of game and had it not been for your video, I'd made a wasteful purchase. I appreciate these videos more than you know! 🙏
Combat good. Graphics very glitchy on PS5. On Xbox series S it looked great.
I actually grew more interested in this game when they dropped their gameplay video earlier in the year. This just solidifies my desire to buy the game.
Im not a fan of the genre but im going to play this day one because i like playing this type of games ones in awhile very relaxing tactical rpg plus Marvel characters
Yeah that's when I got interested in it around the summer. I had heard about i tearlier but initiall ydismissed i tbecause I thought it was going t obe moer one of those Fifa Ultimate team like games heavy on the micro transactions and no single player stuff. But tha twas before I was familiasr with the devs since the summe rit's completely did a 180 on me. Mostly because suprehero RPG's are extremely rare at least in video game form so to have 2 this year has been great if you count Gotham Knights as well. The fact this is a tactical RPG game that has Superheroes is right up my alley. It's nice to see someone do something a little different than your general action superhero game whic hevreyon eelse tends to make wher you bea t6 enemies in a room so you move into the nex troom and there are 10 waiting for you. I'm not saying thre's anythin gwrong with those types of games as I enjoy them too I'm just sayin gthat it's good that someone has been willing and allowed to take these charactres and has been allowed t od osometthing unique and different with them by mixing a supr hero story and mixing it in with a tactical gam estructure wher it's more about making the right moves to get throug ha fightrather than constant QTE button mashing mechanics that the actoin ones have sa that can be monotonous after a while.
Same here I didn’t care about it till the reviews today - it looks fun
I'm all for Firaxis going out of Xcom tactics and developing new ways to play RTS but I'm just so burned out with Marvel superhero stuff right now that that's the only thing stopping me from buying this game. If this were set in a completely different universe (like how cool will a power rangers game like this would be?) I'd totallllyyy love this game. For now, I'd probably wait until an inevitable sale.
I'm in two minds I hope they bring more content down the line I may not pick it up straight away but I'm pretty sure I will be buying it at some point next year
Ther will be 4 DLC's coming out for i tadding 4 extra heroes to the roster.
DLC with more characters would do this game good.
i didn't know the characters before hand so i wasn't expecting Runaways' Niko to pop-up. That was always a favorite comic series of mine.
you had me when you said you can go fishing with Blade 🤣 now i GOTTA get this game lmao