Knights & Merchants: The Shattered Kingdom

The main pros of the game

• Deep Economic Management: The game features a complex resource management system that requires players to carefully manage various resources and production chains, making it appealing for fans of strategy and economic simulation.
• Challenging Gameplay: Players enjoy the strategic depth and the need for careful planning, as the game requires balancing resource production, troop training, and feeding the population.
• Nostalgic Appeal: Many players have fond memories of the game from their childhood, contributing to its charm and lasting appeal.
• Large-Scale Battles: The game allows for engaging tactical combat with a variety of unit types and formations.
• Fan Remake Available: The KaM Remake enhances the original game with improved graphics, better AI, and additional features like multiplayer, which many players recommend.

The main cons of the game

• Steam Version Issues: Users report that the Steam version is buggy, lacks the original soundtrack, and has problems with controls and multiplayer functionality.
• Clunky AI and Pathfinding: Many reviews mention issues with unit pathfinding and AI behavior, leading to frustrating gameplay moments.
• Steep Learning Curve: The game can be overwhelming for new players due to its complexity and lack of tutorials.
• Slow-Paced Gameplay: Some players find the game’s slow pace and lengthy missions to be tedious, especially when compared to modern RTS games.
• Dated Graphics and UI: While nostalgic, the graphics and user interface are considered outdated, which may deter new players.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

• Original Soundtrack: Many players noted the absence of the original music in the Steam version, which detracts from the nostalgic experience.
• Complete Expansion Packs: Users expressed disappointment that the Steam version does not include the expansion packs or necessary content for the full experience.
• Improved Multiplayer Functionality: The multiplayer mode in the Steam version is often criticized for being poorly implemented or non-functional compared to the fan remake.
• Better AI and Pathfinding: Users wish for improvements in AI behavior and unit movement, which can lead to frustrating gameplay experiences.

Summary

• In summary, while Knights & Merchants: The Shattered Kingdom has a dedicated fan base and offers rich gameplay mechanics, the Steam version has significant drawbacks that lead many users to recommend alternative platforms or fan-made remakes for a better experience.

Summary generated on: October 31, 2025