Mount & Blade: With Fire & Sword

The main pros of the game

• Combat Mechanics: The game retains the addictive and engaging combat mechanics of the Mount & Blade series, with large-scale battles being particularly thrilling. The introduction of firearms adds a new tactical layer to combat.
• Historical Setting: Set in 17th-century Eastern Europe, the game offers a fresh historical backdrop, which is appreciated by history buffs.
• Dynamic Experience: Players enjoy a unique experience with every playthrough due to the dynamic political and military simulation, contributing to a sense of a living world.
• Improvements Over Warband: Some users noted enhancements in siege mechanics and the introduction of a unique map based on real locations.
• Modding Support: The game has good modding capabilities, which can enhance the gameplay experience.

The main cons of the game

• Dated Graphics and Technical Issues: The game runs on an outdated engine, leading to poor graphics, bugs, and critical issues that can end the story prematurely.
• Limited Storytelling: While the game attempts to weave faction-specific storylines, many users found the characters flat and the writing unengaging.
• Narrowed Faction Diversity: The shift to real-world countries as factions has been criticized for reducing the variety and colorfulness seen in previous installments like Warband.
• Repetitive Gameplay: Some players felt that interactions and quests became repetitive, limiting player engagement outside of combat.

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

• Sandbox Elements: Some users expressed a desire for a more open-world sandbox experience, criticizing the game for adhering too strictly to historical accuracy and limiting player freedom.
• Improved AI: Several reviews pointed out issues with AI behavior, especially during sieges, where the AI's actions were described as absurd or poorly executed.
• Lack of Certain Mechanics: Players noted the absence of features like crossbows and throwable items, which were enjoyed in previous games.
• Polished Localization: There were complaints about poorly optimized dialogues in languages other than English, affecting the overall immersion and experience.

Summary

• Overall, while "Mount & Blade: With Fire & Sword" offers engaging combat and a unique historical setting, it suffers from technical issues, dated graphics, and limited storytelling, leading to mixed reviews from players.

Summary generated on: October 28, 2025