Valiant Hearts The Great War might be the best World War I game I have ever played. Granted, I could count on one hand the number of games I’ve played based on that war, but Valiant Hearts still takes the crown. Developed by Ubisoft Montpelier in the Ubi Art engine, Valiant Hearts is a beautiful game with a great story.

Taking place during the First World War, Ubisoft really captured the size and magnitude of the conflict while keeping the player personally invested in the individual stories. Whether you are healing both French and German soldiers as Anna or charging up the hill with Frank and his Canadian comrades, you always feel connected to the characters’ feelings and motivations. This is masterfully done through the art work, narration and the use of non-verbal communication. Sure there are a few words spoken here and there, but the way information and emotions are conveyed on-screen is touching and frankly, beautiful.

Valiant Hearts is not lengthy, but there are a few things to do and collect along the way. Nothing in the game is particularly onerous. The puzzles are clever and well-thought-out, though not necessarily challenging. The puzzles are complimentary to the story, rather than being this burdensome task that feels like work or some combat that’s shoehorned in to prove there’s “some excitement.” My only complaint is with Emile’s digging mechanic, and honestly, that barely moved my frustration meter at all.

I will fully admit that everything about this game is in my wheelhouse. I love historical fiction, great narrative and the Ubi Art engine. This game has all those things. They even have some diversity in level design that keeps the story moving and gives players a breather during story transition. The Taxi driving scene carrying soldiers from Paris to the front line with the Can Can playing in the background was immensely fun and left me with a wide smile on my face. How could you ask for more?

Overall, Valiant Hearts: The Great War is a brilliant, beautiful game with a fantastic narrative. If you love great story telling, beautiful art design, top notch sound design or fun, then this is a game for you. Even though the game is not lengthy at the current price tag, I fully support you picking up Valiant Hearts and joining in The Great War.

Valiant Hearts The Great War Trailer
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TH4Ik85fTJM