Jagged Alliance 3: A Comprehensive Game Review
As a long-time fan of the Jagged Alliance series, I have been eagerly following the development of Jagged Alliance 3. I am excited to share my thoughts on the game, from its tactical depths to its graphics and sound. With its extensive character customization, squad management, and strategic layer, Jagged Alliance 3 is a game that requires careful planning and offers endless replayability. In this comprehensive game review, I will discuss the history and evolution of the series, the gameplay and features of Jagged Alliance 3, and how it compares to its predecessors and competitors. I will also provide some tips and tricks to help you master the game and share my final thoughts on whether it is worth your time and money.
Introduction to Jagged Alliance 3

Jagged Alliance 3 is the latest installment in the long-running series of turn-based strategy games. The game is developed by Haemimont Games and published by THQ Nordic. Jagged Alliance 3 continues the series’ tradition of tactical squad-based gameplay, as players control a group of mercenaries to complete missions and take down the enemy forces. The game offers a rich and deep tactical experience, with numerous options for character creation, squad management, and strategic planning. In this review, I will delve into the various features and aspects of the game to give you a comprehensive understanding of Jagged Alliance 3.
Jagged Alliance 3 Gameplay trailer via IGN
The history and evolution of the Jagged Alliance series
The Jagged Alliance series has its roots in the early 1990s, with the release of the first game in 1994. Developed by Sir-tech, the series has seen several sequels and spin-offs over the years, with the most recent entry, Jagged Alliance: Rage!, released in 2018. The series has developed a dedicated fanbase, thanks to its deep and engaging tactical gameplay and memorable characters.
Over time, the series has evolved and expanded, adding new features, mechanics, and improvements to the core gameplay. Jagged Alliance 3 is no exception, as it brings several innovations and refinements to the series while retaining the elements that have made the franchise so beloved.
Overview of Jagged Alliance 3 gameplay and features

In Jagged Alliance 3, players take on the role of a commander in charge of a group of mercenaries, tasked with completing missions and battling enemy forces. The game is played from an isometric perspective, with a turn-based combat system that allows for careful planning and execution of tactics. Players must manage and equip their squad, hire new mercenaries, and make strategic decisions on a world map.
One of the key features of Jagged Alliance 3 is its character creation and customization system, which allows players to create their own unique squad of mercenaries. Additionally, the game offers deep squad management and tactics, with each character possessing unique skills and attributes that can be developed over time. Finally, the strategic layer in Jagged Alliance 3 offers a dynamic world map where players must make decisions that can impact the outcome of the game.
Tactical depth in Jagged Alliance 3
Character creation and customization
Jagged Alliance 3 offers an extensive character creation system, allowing players to create and customize their own unique squad of mercenaries. Each character has a set of attributes, such as strength, agility, and intelligence, which can be adjusted to suit different playstyles. Additionally, players can choose from a wide range of skills and abilities, such as marksmanship, stealth, and medical expertise, to further specialize their characters.
The game also features a robust equipment system, with a wide variety of weapons, armor, and items available to outfit your squad. Each piece of equipment has its own unique stats and bonuses, allowing for deep customization and strategic choices when equipping your characters.
Squad management and tactics
Managing your squad of mercenaries is a crucial aspect of Jagged Alliance 3’s gameplay. Players must carefully choose which characters to recruit, keeping in mind their unique skills, attributes, and personalities. Some characters may work well together, while others may have conflicts that can impact their performance on the battlefield.
In combat, players must utilize their squad’s unique abilities and tactics to overcome enemy forces. Positioning, cover, and the use of various skills and items all play a crucial role in the game’s tactical depth. Coordination between squad members is essential, with players able to issue commands and set up complex strategies to outmaneuver and defeat their opponents.
Strategic layer and world map
Outside of combat, Jagged Alliance 3 features a strategic layer that takes place on a dynamic world map. Players must make decisions about which missions to undertake, where to establish bases, and how to manage resources such as finances, equipment, and personnel. The world map is filled with events and encounters that can impact the course of the game, with players’ decisions having far-reaching consequences for their campaign.
Graphics, sound, and user interface

Jagged Alliance 3 features a detailed and immersive visual presentation, with high-quality character models, environments, and effects. The game’s isometric perspective allows for easy navigation and tactical planning, while the dynamic lighting and weather systems create a realistic and engaging world.
The game’s sound design is equally impressive, with an immersive soundtrack and high-quality sound effects that bring the world of Jagged Alliance 3 to life. The voice acting and dialogue are well-executed, with memorable characters and engaging storylines.
The user interface in Jagged Alliance 3 is intuitive and easy to navigate, with all the necessary information and options readily available. The game’s various menus and systems are well-designed, allowing for easy management of your squad and resources.
Comparing Jagged Alliance 3 to its predecessors and competitors
When compared to its predecessors, Jagged Alliance 3 offers several improvements and innovations that enhance the gameplay experience. The character creation and customization system is more in-depth, the strategic layer has been expanded, and the graphics and sound have received significant upgrades. Overall, Jagged Alliance 3 feels like a natural evolution of the series, retaining the core elements that made the previous games so popular while introducing new features and refinements.
In comparison to other turn-based strategy games on the market, Jagged Alliance 3 stands out for its focus on character-driven gameplay and deep tactical depth. The game offers a unique blend of squad management, character development, and strategic planning that sets it apart from its competitors.
Community reception and modding potential
Since its release, Jagged Alliance 3 has received mostly positive reviews from both critics and players. The game has been praised for its tactical depth, engaging gameplay, and immersive presentation. The community has also shown a strong interest in modding, with several mods and custom content already available for the game. The developers have expressed support for the modding community, and the game’s open-ended design and extensive customization options make it a perfect fit for user-generated content.
Tips and tricks for mastering Jagged Alliance 3
To help you get started with Jagged Alliance 3, I have compiled a few tips and tricks that can aid you in mastering the game:
1. Take your time when planning your moves in combat. Positioning, cover, and the use of skills and items can make all the difference in a battle.
2. Pay attention to your squad’s unique abilities and personalities. Utilize their strengths and work around their weaknesses to create a well-rounded team.
3. Keep an eye on your finances and resources. Managing your budget and equipment is crucial to your success in the game.
4. Explore the world map and take on side missions to gain valuable experience and resources.
5. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strategies and tactics. The game offers a wide range of options for character customization and squad management, so try out different approaches to find the playstyle that works best for you.
Final thoughts: is Jagged Alliance 3 worth your time and money?
In conclusion, Jagged Alliance 3 is an excellent addition to the series and a standout title in the turn-based strategy genre. The game offers deep tactical gameplay, extensive character customization, and a dynamic world map that provides endless replayability. The graphics, sound, and user interface are all top-notch,and the game’s reception from both critics and the community has been overwhelmingly positive. While the game may be challenging for newcomers to the series, the learning curve is worth the effort, as the game offers a rewarding and engaging experience for those willing to put in the time and effort.
For fans of the series, or anyone looking for a deep and engaging turn-based strategy game, Jagged Alliance 3 is definitely worth your time and money. The game offers a rich and immersive world filled with memorable characters and challenging missions. The extensive customization and management options allow for endless replayability, while the game’s modding potential ensures that the community will continue to provide new and exciting content for years to come.
So if you’re a fan of turn-based strategy games, or just looking for a new challenge, I highly recommend giving Jagged Alliance 3 a try. With its deep tactical depth, engaging gameplay, and immersive world, it is sure to provide hours of entertainment and satisfaction.