The Iron Oath is a premium role-playing game for PC by game studio Curious Panda Games. It's a turn-based tactical RPG title that features a medieval fantasy setting. In it, players lead a mercenary group, and they will take on various work to survive and gain fame throughout the land.

Compared to other tactical RPGs like Pathfinder: Kingmaker or Divinity: Original Sin 2, The Iron Oath features retro pixel art graphics and a generally old-school approach to its game design. Also, it employs a unique time mechanic that is at the core of its gameplay and affects how the story progresses.

What is it about exactly?

The Iron Oath is a turn-based tactical RPG that is set in the medieval fantasy world of Caelum. You're the leader of a fledgling group of mercenaries trying to get by and survive the harsh times. Recruit members and manage your company as you take on work that will have you go on perilous missions to earn a living and maybe even gain some fame and recognition too.

What makes the game intriguing is the way it uses the passing of time to affect your gameplay. Your characters will age, retire, and die as you progress through the game. This will conclude certain storylines, but it will also open up new paths and possibilities for new adventures. This also extends to the game world itself, wherein changes to some locations will happen over time.

Each character has various customizable traits and upgradable special abilities that can dictate how well or poorly they perform in battle. Now, if you're liking what you've been reading so far and want to try out the game, you'll have to wait a while longer since the game is not out yet. Also, there has been no word on when it will officially release either.

Contend with time itself

If you like the games from the Pathfinder or Divinity series, consider adding The Iron Oath to your list, as well. It boasts the same tactical gameplay with RPG elements, wrapped inside a more retro and charming pixel art style presentation. Its time progression system alone is reason enough to make it worth the time when it officially releases.