The Bard's Tale PC
Metascore
70 out of 100

Mixed or average reviews - based on 11 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 11
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 11
  3. Negative: 1 out of 11
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  1. Computer Games Online RO
    84
    If you’re looking for a complex RPG, with lots of items, weapons, skills and intricate dialog options, you’re looking in the wrong place. But if you a want a simple game, which will surely steal a smile or two of your face, then The Bard’s Tale might be just what you’re looking for.
  2. PC Gamer
    81
    Has nothing in common with the original series, but it's a solid action/RPG. [Sept 2005, p.81]
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  3. CPUGamer
    80
    The wit present in this game is second to none and I honestly think this is what would have happened had Mel Brooks gotten into game making.
  4. Computer Gaming World
    80
    Above all, the writing and voice acting are far superior to most other videogames'. [Oct 2005, p.76]
  5. Worth Playing
    79
    Overall, The Bard's Tale is wonderful. Although it does lack in a few areas, the game's memorable characters and terrific sense of humor more than make up for any of these weaknesses.
  6. Jolt Online Gaming UK
    70
    Yes, it’s funny, and it does crack a few good observations about the genre. However, by making the same mistakes that the games it’s laughing at make, it shoots itself in the foot a bit.
  7. Computer Games Magazine
    70
    Ultimately, incisive humor and caustic personality win out over dicey combat and console-itis. [Oct 2005, p.66]
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  8. Computer and Video Games
    68
    While The Bard's Tale is told amusingly enough, the disappointing combat fails to lift it from the upper end of mediocrity.
  9. GameSpot
    67
    If you're not looking for an unofficial sequel to "Monty Python and the Quest for the Holy Grail," and you can see past a few problems, you'll find that The Bard's Tale is a decent enough action RPG.
  10. Cheat Code Central
    60
    A relatively short RPG that could be conceivably finished in a weekend unless you want to play those moldy, oldie, 80s classic games that come with it - the same games you wouldn't play if you got them for free with a printer at Staples.
  11. PC Format
    45
    A victim of its own sneers, this is the world's first self-parodying game. [July 2005, p.90]
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User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
7.6 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 30 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 16
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 16
  3. Negative: 4 out of 16
  1. DonnieBrasco
    4
    Awesome, hilarious absurd humor a'la Monty Python paired with subpar graphics, no RPG elements and "dumbed-down-to-ground" playflow make this a very mixed game. With a nice skills/char development and much more depth concerning gameplay this could have been a classic. Does the name "Anachronox" ring a bell? Not far....… Full Review »
  2. neowiz73
    8
    I love this new spin on Bard's Tale, I played all of the old PC games from the 80s and they always had some humor involved but this one topped them all. It was very enjoyable and the endings are cool and funny. This is a nice break from the cliche. It is good for one good play through, just make sure to save it towards the end so you can reload and see both endings.… Full Review »
  3. doyourealize
    8
    This game is not a challenger to Diablo. You will not horde items and decide whether you would like the quicker sword with a less power, or the more powerful sword that's a bit slower. You won't have to make difficult decisions about whether to save a woman or save a town. The RPG mechanics are not innovative or thought-provoking. And the quest will not demand countless hours of your life. You will, however, enjoy every step in your (admittedly short) journey. It's funny, it's quirky, and you'll never have to worry about anything except moving forward. Everything you pick up is something you automatically equip or something that turns instantly to gold (you should still take a look at what these things are, though, as ofttimes, it's hilarious). Even new weapons, when you find one, will be automatically equipped and your old sword will turn to gold. These are not admirable designs in a deep, multiplayer adventure. In this game, though, which you play alone, they are godsends. It's $5 right now on Steam, and worth every penny. It won't change your life, but it will leave you happy.… Full Review »
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