The Banner Saga (v2.18.08 & 2 DLC)

The Banner Saga is a tactical role-playing game set in a beautifully hand-drawn, Norse-inspired world where your choices shape an epic Viking saga. Players lead a caravan of humans and varl—horned giants—across a vast, frozen landscape threatened by a mysterious and deadly force. As you travel, the relationships you build and the characters you choose to bring along are crucial to your survival and the fate of your civilization. The narrative is deeply influenced by your decisions in dialogue, travel, and combat, creating a dynamic story where not everyone will live to see the end, but each character’s legacy matters. Gameplay revolves around strategic turn-based combat featuring over 25 playable characters from seven unique classes, each with their own abilities and upgrade paths. Victory depends not only on tactical skill but also on the decisions you make before and after battles, with permanent consequences including the potential loss of characters. Beyond combat, managing the caravan’s resources and morale is essential to enduring the harsh environment. Accompanied by a haunting score from Grammy-nominated composer Austin Wintory, The Banner Saga offers an immersive experience that blends storytelling and strategy. Additionally, players can test their skills in the free multiplayer mode “Factions,” which features many of the same character classes. As the first installment of a planned trilogy, choices made here carry over, influencing the continuation of your journey in future games.