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Jagged Alliance - Back in Action

Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux • 2012

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Quick resume

A contemporary remake of the much-loved series of turn-based mercenary-themed strategy games.

Global score

73/100

Genres

Role-playing (RPG), Simulator, Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS), Tactical

Pros

  • Deep tactical combat with pause and plan system
  • High replayability with merc customization and team building
  • Large variety of weapons and equipment
  • Engaging strategic map and squad management
  • Active modding community improving gameplay

Cons

  • Bugs and technical issues reported
  • Ai sometimes erratic or unintelligent
  • Lack of character creation and reduced story depth
  • Tedious inventory and logistics micromanagement
  • Some balance issues and repetitive late-game combat

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players have freedom to plan strategies, issue detailed orders in pause mode, and choose mercenaries and equipment, showing high control over actions."

  • Competence
    4

    "Game requires skillful management of squads, tactical planning, and micromanagement; players experience challenge and feedback on performance."

  • Competition
    -3

    "Focus is on single-player experience with no mention of ranked or multiplayer competition; emphasis on personal strategy and progression."

  • Continuation
    4

    "Many players report hundreds of hours played, high replayability with different merc combinations and strategies."

  • Cooperation
    2

    "Players manage multiple mercs in squads, coordinating their actions, but mostly single-player without multiplayer teamwork."

  • Creativity
    3

    "Players customize mercs’ equipment, skills, and tactics; some modding community enhances creativity."

  • Domination
    -2

    "Interactions are balanced squad management rather than exerting control or superiority over others."

  • Escapism
    3

    "Players engage in immersive tactical combat and strategic management, providing distraction and stress relief."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of interest and enjoyment; no indications of obligation or pressure."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Players try different merc combinations, tactics, and modded gameplay, exploring mechanics and strategies."

  • Exploration
    2

    "Game features an open map with multiple locations to liberate and explore, though some areas are revisited."

  • Expression
    3

    "Players customize mercs’ gear and appearance; some personalization but limited character creation."

  • Fantasy
    -2

    "Game is grounded in realistic military tactics and mercenary combat, with plausible scenarios."

  • Fellowship
    -3

    "Primarily single-player with limited social interaction; community exists for mods but gameplay is individual."

  • Growth
    4

    "Players develop mercenaries’ skills and abilities, learn game mechanics, and improve strategies."

  • Health
    -4

    "Game involves sedentary play with no physical activity; some frustration reported but no physical engagement."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention and micromanagement; not suitable for casual or background play."

  • Intimacy
    -4

    "Limited emotional connection beyond mercenary personalities; no close social relationships formed."

  • Leadership
    4

    "Players lead squads of mercenaries, managing their equipment, skills, and combat orders."

  • Progression
    4

    "Players accumulate weapons, gear, and upgrades; mercenaries level up and improve over time."

  • Relaxation
    1

    "Some players find tactical planning relaxing, but micromanagement and difficulty can cause tension."

  • Sensation
    2

    "Combat effects, sounds, and animations provide sensory stimulation and excitement."

  • Status
    -3

    "Achievements and recognition are minimal; focus is on individual gameplay rather than social status."

  • Story
    2

    "Game follows a narrative of liberating Arulco with familiar characters, though story depth is reduced."

  • Strategy
    5

    "Core gameplay revolves around tactical planning, squad management, and strategic decision making."

  • Thrill
    3

    "Combat involves suspense and tension, especially in close quarters and difficult battles."

  • Value
    3

    "Players report many hours of gameplay for reasonable price, especially with mods improving experience."

  • Violence
    4

    "Game centers on combat, shooting, explosions, and tactical elimination of enemies."

  • Survival
    3

    "Players must manage resources, avoid death, and strategically defend and attack to survive."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026