Used Thorny Times for Mac?
Editors’ Review
Thorny Times, by Nikolay Armonik, is a tactical role-playing game that puts you in command of a small mercenary force defending a grim medieval kingdom. The game pairs a strategic overworld with puzzle-like turn-based encounters that emphasize positioning and resource choices. It offers character progression, territorial income mechanics, and a scenario editor, aimed at players who prefer deliberate, campaign-driven tactical experiences on Mac.
What kind of game is Thorny Times?
In this game, you navigate a remake of a cult classic inside a dark fantasy setting where squad leadership is the primary activity. The player alternates between a strategic map and discrete scenarios, pursuing quests and reclaiming settlements to sustain forces. Scenarios branch into multiple narrative paths, so choices on the map affect which missions and maps become available during a campaign.
How do combat and strategy interact in practice?
On the tactical field, battles play like positioning puzzles built around hex grids, where placement and team composition matter more than raw numbers. The game features individual inventories and development trees for each fighter, and an economic layer requires capturing villages and castles to fund upkeep. Key gameplay loops: hex-based positioning, unit synergy, and territory-driven resource management.
What does the game look and sound like?
In terms of presentation, the remake updates visuals from the original while keeping a grim atmosphere established by the developer. Maps and scenarios use restrained, mid-period fantasy art and a soundtrack that supports mood rather than loud themes. The interface keeps mode separation clear between strategic map screens and tactical encounters, with distinct panels for squad management and settlement administration.
Is it hard to get started and how does progression feel?
Regarding difficulty and progression, the title emphasizes upkeep decisions and long-term planning, as army maintenance depends on captured holdings. Character growth relies on individual development trees, encouraging long-term investment in specific fighters. Early feedback highlights a challenging curve, which makes the game more suited to players who accept methodical planning and the risk of extended campaign commitments.
Pros
- Hex-grid combat emphasizes tactical placement over raw stats
- Territorial income ties map control directly to army upkeep
- Individual progression trees and inventories for each mercenary
- Integrated level editor enables custom scenarios and modding
Cons
- Early feedback notes a challenging learning curve
- Design favors long campaigns, not short pick-up sessions
- Strategic focus may overwhelm players who prefer pure tactics
Bottom Line
Recommendation for tactical-RPG players who favor deliberate campaigns
Thorny Times is a solid choice for experienced tactical-RPG players who enjoy methodical, long-form campaigns and strategic resource decisions. However, its demanding design and emphasis on map-level management make it less suitable for quick, casual sessions. Players seeking lengthy, choice-driven campaigns will find its structure rewarding; those preferring fast-paced or arcade-style encounters should consider that limitation.
