Broken Sword – Shadow of the Templars: Reforged arrives on PS5 with the confidence of a classic that knows full well it has nothing to prove. Nearly three decades after the original launch, the iconic point-and-click adventure returns once more – this time rebuilt with modern visuals, updated controls, and just enough nostalgia to make veteran players feel both delighted and slightly ancient.
Gaming Heaven
The most immediately striking upgrade is the art. Characters and environments have been newly illustrated with crisp detail and a rich, painterly finish that brings Parisian cafés, Irish pubs and Templar-tinged ruins to life. It’s a lovingly crafted visual overhaul, even if it occasionally veers into “Saturday morning cartoon” brightness.
Voice acting has also been re-recorded, and hearing George Stobbart and Nico in pristine clarity is a delight – especially for long-time fans who’ve spent years pretending their old PC speakers were fine. The music remains effortlessly charming, weaving a warm ambience through every scene.
The quality-of-life improvements genuinely make this the most approachable version to date. Hints, tutorials and a friendlier cursor system eliminate the traditional pixel-hunting misery that shaped an entire generation’s patience threshold. For newcomers, it feels modern; for old hands, it feels like cheating – but pleasantly so.
Above all, the story remains the game’s backbone: a witty, globe-trotting conspiracy full of eccentric characters, ancient secrets and enough humour to remind you why the original became a genre classic.
Gaming Hell
Purists may twitch at the softened challenge. The abundance of hints turns some puzzles into gentle strolls rather than brain-wracking detours. A few cosmetic tweaks – for modern sensibilities – feel unnecessary, and you can’t switch back to the old control scheme, which some veterans will treat as a personal attack.
And yes, it’s another remaster in a world drowning in them. Even a good one can trigger an existential sigh.
Final Judgement
Reforged is a warm, respectful revival that balances nostalgia with accessibility. It may not capture the exact magic of playing it in the 90s, but it honours the spirit of the original while making it far easier to enjoy today. Charming, faithful and lovingly polished – an excellent way for new players to discover an adventure timeless enough to deserve yet another redo.
