Valiant Hearts: The Great War

This game shows you there is room for love and compassion even in the darkest moments of humanity.
If it doesn't make you cry, you're not human.

A bit old and short, but yet great game, which sends, an unfortunately very relevant message: war is hell, and it's regular people who always pay the biggest price

In war, the true cause worth fighting for is not the flag above our heads, but the people who stand beside us. Nations may change, borders may shift, but the love for family is eternal

one of the coolest history games ive played not to mention how it pulled on my heart strings... alot of interesting facts about war i never knew... anywho its worth a play if you enjoy learning about history and simply controls <3

VALIANT HEARTS: THE GREAT WAR 7/10
A highly enjoyable and unique game, coupled with an emotional journey.
Sadly a Ubisoft title without Steam Achievements but there are Trading Cards.
The puzzles do become a little samey and repetitive by Chapter 4, but otherwise definitely worth picking up especially if you have some respect for history.
Edit 15/4/2025:
As of April-25, Ubisoft have now retroactively added Steam Achievements which is a welcome addition.

The game is beautiful. The story really makes you feel how people felt in the Great War and how they change. You play as several characters, which they are all related to each other as family or as new friends that randomly met. The graphics may not be so good, but the art style and narrative makes it unique. Very good game even after 11 years. The only downside is that it is an Ubisoft game, and it makes you download their terrible launcher.

Rating: 5/5
Narrative and Emotional Impact:
"Valiant Hearts: The Great War" isn't just a game; it's an experience that captures the essence of World War I through its poignant storytelling and heart-wrenching narrative. The game follows the intersecting lives of several characters, each with their own tale of love, loss, and survival. The blend of historical events with personal stories makes for an emotionally charged journey, one where you'll feel every victory and defeat.
Gameplay:
The gameplay is a beautiful mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and light action, all presented in a 2D animated comic style that breathes life into the grim setting of war. Each character you control offers unique abilities, with the dog companion being a highlight - not just for gameplay mechanics but for the emotional bond he adds to the narrative. Puzzles are generally intuitive, requiring just the right balance of challenge and logic without becoming frustrating.
Visuals and Audio:
The art style is both distinctive and evocative, with backgrounds that are detailed enough to immerse you in the era while maintaining a comic book charm. The soundtrack complements the visuals perfectly, enhancing the mood with its moving melodies and fitting wartime tunes. The use of historical artifacts at the end of each chapter adds an educational layer to the experience.
Replay Value:
While the story is linear, the emotional depth and the beautifully crafted levels make this game worth revisiting. The additional historical facts and the way the game pays homage to the real-life events of WWI provide a compelling reason to explore its world again.
Critiques:
The game might feel a bit short for some, and the controls can occasionally be a tad clunky on certain platforms. Also, while the puzzles are enjoyable, they might not offer enough challenge for veteran puzzle enthusiasts.
Conclusion:
"Valiant Hearts: The Great War" stands out as a touching tribute to the soldiers of WWI, wrapped in an engaging, educational, and emotionally rich package. If you're looking for a game that combines history, narrative, and gameplay in a unique way, this is a must-play. It's a reminder of war's human cost, told through the lens of a beautifully crafted game. Highly recommended for those who appreciate story-driven games with a historical backdrop.