It should be apparent by now that I’m a huge fan of stories related to chivalry, duty, and honor. The concepts of fighting for a cause you believe in and putting your life on the line for those who can’t defend themselves has always appealed to me. Which is why I’m surprised I had overlooked Pauldron: Shield of the King for as long as I have. It’s not the most beautiful game, but I’ve always been one to say that graphics don’t make a good game. Story does.
Anyway, Pauldron: Shield of the King takes place in a fantasy realm that was once besieged by some kind of dragon riders. They were eventually thwarted but it looks like they may be returning as a dragon’s egg shell has been spotted within the land. As far as the overarching story goes that’s pretty much all we know. Other than that you will be able to jump between three different time periods: the past, the present and the future.
But what really stands out about Pauldron: Shield of the King to me is with the more personal touches being brought to the title. Marcus Ector is known as the “Shield of the King”, a fancy term for being the ruler’s most trusted bodyguard. And it’s an honor to serve your liege. Marcus certainly thinks so and he has high hopes that his eldest son Griff will follow in his footsteps. Unfortunately, the young lad has other plans and would rather go hunting the woods.
It’s a tale of “legacy and coming of age”. Of being bound to duty and honor. Of doing what you think is right. And at the heart of it all is the pauldron. For those that aren’t in the know, it’s the piece of armor that rests on your shoulders. And it’s a symbol of one’s place in the world and held with high regard. It’s who you are and what you’ve sworn to do. And it’s a lovely thing to see.
Track the progress of the Pauldron: Shield of the King Kickstarter in our Campaign Calendar.
I really like this one. Sounds from the pitch a lovely father-son story through time. I also like this kind of life is strange mechanics but using a fantasy background.
I do really love the story idea. Even if I don’t back this one I’ll certainly be picking it up when it releases. Between the whole father/son angle and the focus on duty and honor it’s my kind of game.