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Bastard Bonds

PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2016

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Quick resume

Bastard Bonds is a mature, fast-paced tactical RPG with high-end pixel art and in-depth character customization.

Global score

89/100

Genres

Indie, Role-playing (RPG), Strategy, Tactical

Pros

  • Deep character customization
  • Unique risk-based combat
  • Large explorable world
  • Engaging party bonding
  • High replayability

Cons

  • Steep learning curve
  • Some ui and tutorial shortcomings
  • Combat ai can be simplistic
  • Some difficulty spikes
  • Lack of animation

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players make meaningful choices affecting story, character builds, and stronghold management with freedom to explore and recruit."

  • Competence
    3

    "Combat is simple but engaging with risk mechanic requiring tactical decisions; character progression and stronghold building add depth."

  • Competition
    -3

    "Focus is on personal progression and exploration without competitive multiplayer or leaderboards."

  • Continuation
    4

    "Players report long playtimes, high replayability, and addictive gameplay encouraging extended sessions."

  • Cooperation
    2

    "Party-based gameplay with bonding and team synergy; some cooperation with NPCs and recruited monsters."

  • Creativity
    5

    "Extensive character customization, ability to create/import sprites, and flexible skill builds."

  • Domination
    -3

    "Interactions emphasize mutual respect and bonding rather than dominance or power over others."

  • Escapism
    5

    "Immersive fantasy world with rich lore and exploration offers strong escape from real life."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of interest and enjoyment rather than obligation or pressure."

  • Experimenting
    4

    "Players experiment with builds, risk-taking in combat, recruitment, and exploration of secrets."

  • Exploration
    5

    "Large world map with many unique locations, secrets, and lore encourages discovery."

  • Expression
    5

    "Highly detailed character creation and sprite customization allow for strong self-expression."

  • Fantasy
    5

    "Set in a dark fantasy prison island with monsters, magic, and mythical elements."

  • Fellowship
    3

    "Bonding with party members and NPCs creates a sense of community and attachment."

  • Growth
    4

    "Players develop skills, knowledge of mechanics, and character builds over time."

  • Health
    -4

    "Primarily sedentary gameplay with no physical activity involved."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention on combat and management, not suited for idle play."

  • Intimacy
    3

    "Bonding system and character interactions provide emotional connection beyond surface level."

  • Leadership
    3

    "Players lead a band of characters and manage a stronghold, guiding decisions and strategy."

  • Progression
    5

    "Strong emphasis on leveling characters, recruiting, upgrading strongholds, and collecting items."

  • Relaxation
    2

    "Some tension from risk mechanic and difficulty spikes, but overall balanced challenge and flow."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Pixel art and music provide enjoyable sensory experience; some players appreciate the adult themes."

  • Status
    -3

    "No social status or leaderboard recognition; focus is on personal achievement."

  • Story
    3

    "Narrative is present with character backstories and environmental storytelling, though not deeply intrusive."

  • Strategy
    4

    "Combat and party management require tactical thinking and planning."

  • Thrill
    3

    "Risk mechanic adds suspense and excitement to combat decisions."

  • Value
    4

    "Players report high value for price with many hours of content and replayability."

  • Violence
    2

    "Combat involves fighting and defeating enemies, but also recruiting and cooperating with them."

  • Survival
    3

    "Players must manage resources, risk, and character health to survive hostile environments."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026