The-first-templar-special-edition Apr 2026

It’s a "7/10" game in the best way possible—flawed, earnest, and deeply enjoyable if you have a friend to play with.

The Special Edition adds value primarily through the , which provides a series of combat challenges that flesh out the combat mechanics, and a digital artbook/soundtrack that highlights the game's surprisingly strong atmospheric score. Gameplay: The Co-op Core the-first-templar-special-edition

The "Special Edition" of The First Templar is an interesting artifact of the early 2010s AA gaming scene. Developed by Haemimont Games—better known for the Tropico series—it attempts to blend historical fiction, action-adventure, and cooperative play. While it never reached AAA status, it remains a cult classic for those who appreciate "euro-jank" charm and earnest storytelling. Narrative and Setting It’s a "7/10" game in the best way

Set during the late 13th century, the game follows Celian d'Arestide, a noble Templar, and Marie d'Ibelin, a "heretic" noblewoman. The story is a standard but engaging romp through Templar mythology, involving the Holy Grail, the Inquisition, and the fall of the Order. Developed by Haemimont Games—better known for the Tropico

Even in the Special Edition, the animations are wooden and the voice acting ranges from "sincere" to "unintentionally hilarious."

The First Templar succeeds because it doesn't overreach. It delivers a solid 10–12 hour adventure with a clear beginning, middle, and end. In an era of live-service bloat, its straightforward progression and focus on a "buddy-cop" dynamic in a medieval setting feel refreshing. The Special Edition is the definitive way to play, smoothing out some of the original release's rough edges and providing the complete mechanical package.

Celian and Marie have distinct styles—Celian is a tanky brawler, while Marie is a fast, dual-dagger rogue.