I’ve always found city-building games a bit daunting, but I’m gradually getting the hang of them. I’m constantly searching for games with unique twists. Tomas Sala, known for Falconeer, has created something very different in Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles. It’s a city-builder, but not in the usual sense, and I recently played a version to see what it’s all about.
Expand and Connect
Bulwark isn’t your typical city-builder; there’s no big punishment for expanding. You start with an outpost at the center of your city. You don’t build around it in the traditional way but connect new structures to it with bridges. This approach removes the usual terrain constraints of most city-builders.
Growing My Empire
Getting the hang of the controls can be a bit challenging. I spent some time figuring out the connection system. Even with a guide NPC to help, I felt the tutorial needed more detailed instructions since the camera controls aren’t what PC users typically expect.
For instance, it took me a while to realize I had to press the spacebar to build between structures because the on-screen instructions weren’t clear about that. But once I learned the ropes, I started to appreciate the simplified, context-sensitive controls.
Building Without Micromanaging
Bulwark focuses more on creating a sprawling, interconnected settlement rather than micromanagement. The game reassures you that you can’t make mistakes, which is comforting. Workers autonomously expand by building new structures around bridges, making your empire grow seamlessly, though it can make individual parts of your city feel less personal.
Exploration and Defense
After the tutorial, I got to explore the open-world (or rather, open-sea) at my own pace. Using an airship, I navigated to various points of interest. You can fast-travel between key locations and encounter resource deposits, pirates, and refugees on small islands. There’s some light diplomacy, and you can choose to engage in battles.
Diplomacy and Battles
Battles aren’t hands-on; they depend on your influence and resources. You can opt for non-violent trade using your influence, but sometimes, conflict is unavoidable. Switching between exploration and ground mode is simple and intuitive, letting you engage with both systems smoothly.
Trading is handled through harbor points, connecting your outpost with resource locations. You’ll need to appoint Commanders to manage defense and ensure trade posts are operational. The game provides straightforward choices for these roles.
Stunning Presentation
Bulwark shines in its presentation. The world of Ursee, with its vast open seas, is beautifully crafted. Zooming in reveals every building strategically placed, connected in a structurally sensible way.
Upgrading towers triggers charming animations, adding layers of stone and wood. Bridges transform into stone roads with lights and windmills, conquering land and sea. The water is beautifully animated, showcasing marine life and impressive weather effects. Venturing into the deep ocean is both visually stunning and a bit intimidating.
I found my experience with Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles to be quite enjoyable, offering a fresh take on the city-building genre.