The nation of Grand Chien could use your help

Jagged Alliance 3 is a strategy video game wherein you must rescue a nation’s errant president and take back control of the country with nothing but a ragtag group of mercenaries. Developed by Haemimont Games, this 3D tactical RPG is the third main game in the cult classic Jagged Alliance series.

Similar to its predecessors, Jagged Alliance 3 features turn-based combat on an open map—allowing you to direct each playable unit into their separate commands to dominate the battlefield. Aside from the combat, you also get to interact with the locals and even potentially recruit them to your cause.

The bloody mercenary life

First released in 1995, Jagged Alliance is a series of turn-based tactics video games that were centered on strategically controlling mercenary squads. Players can command them on and off the battlefield while they complete their missions. Each mercenary has a distinct personality, class, and play style, and it’s important to consider team synergy regarding their views on each other—otherwise, they won’t be an efficient group. 

In Jagged Alliance 3, the same core concept returns but you now visit the deeply-troubled country of Grand Chien, whose president was kidnapped by a paramilitary force known as “the Legion.” Your goal is to rescue the president and defeat the Legion—and you can only do this by effectively handling your mercs. Several of the old beloved characters from the franchise return and so does the weapon customization feature.

Aside from the classic battles, you can also control territories you’ve reclaimed and command several parties during combat. You must prepare the country for the insurgency. All of these gameplay mechanics can all be enjoyed in the online co-op mode. However, while the game is a visual treat, the look and feel of it are quite different from Jagged Alliance 2, which is considered the series’ best title.

High standards to reach

All in all, Jagged Alliance 3 is another tactical RPG that contributes to the series’ charm. While it doesn’t have the same feel to it as its predecessor—to fans’ disappointment—it still holds up well on its own by bringing back some beloved features while bringing in a new flavor to the franchise. If you’re interested in XCOM-style turn-based combat in your strategy game, this is a highly recommended title.