Is Desperados III a turn-based game?

No, Desperados III is a real-time tactics game with a 'Showdown Mode' that allows you to pause the action and queue commands, giving it a tactical pause feel, but it's not strictly turn-based.

How long is the campaign in Desperados III?

The main campaign typically takes around 25-30 hours to complete, but completionists looking to achieve all badges and objectives can expect to spend much more time.

Is there multiplayer in Desperados III?

No, Desperados III is a single-player experience focusing on its intricate tactical campaign.

Do I need to play previous Desperados games to understand the story?

Desperados III is a prequel, so while playing previous titles might offer some nostalgic context, it's not necessary to enjoy or understand the story. It serves as an excellent standalone entry.

Desperados III

In short: Desperados III is a strategy game released in 2020 by Mimimi Games, available on PC, PlayStation and Xbox. Our score: 8.9/10 (highly recommended).

A real-time tactics game with stealth elements, set in the Wild West. Players control a team of five unique characters, each with their own special abilities, to strategize and execute elaborate plans to overcome challenges and enemies.

Desperados III is a real-time tactics game developed by Mimimi Games and published by THQ Nordic. Released in 2020, it serves as a prequel to the original Desperados: Wanted Dead or Alive. The game transports players to the heart of the Wild West, offering a compelling blend of stealth, strategy, and intricate character abilities. The core gameplay loop revolves around controlling a diverse team of five unique characters: John Cooper, Kate O'Hara, Doc McCoy, Isabelle Moreau, and Hector Mendoza. Each character possesses a distinct set of skills, weapons, and tools, allowing for a multitude of approaches to combat and stealth scenarios. Players must carefully plan their moves, utilizing the environment to their advantage, distracting enemies, and executing synchronized attacks to achieve their objectives. The game emphasizes tactical thinking over brute force, rewarding clever strategies and precise execution. Desperados III is meticulously designed with highly detailed levels, offering multiple paths and opportunities for creative problem-solving. The 'Showdown Mode' allows players to pause the action, queue up commands for each character, and then unleash them simultaneously, leading to incredibly satisfying tactical maneuvers. The narrative, while not the primary focus, provides a solid backdrop for the character-driven missions, delving into John Cooper's origins and his quest for redemption. With its challenging gameplay, engaging characters, and immersive Wild West setti…

Game details

Developer: Mimimi Games
Publisher: THQ Nordic
Release year: 2020
Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox
Category: strategy

Our review

Desperados III masterfully blends real-time tactics with the gritty charm of the Wild West. Mimimi Games has delivered a prequel that not only honors the legacy of the original but elevates the genre to new heights. The intricate level design and diverse character abilities provide an unparalleled tactical playground. While the story might not be groundbreaking, it serves its purpose well, giving context to the excellent mission design. A must-play for fans of stealth and strategy.

Pros

Deep tactical gameplay
Diverse and unique characters
Excellent level design with multiple approaches
Rewarding stealth mechanics
Engaging Wild West atmosphere

Cons

Story can be predictable at times
Steep learning curve for newcomers

FAQ

Is Desperados III a turn-based game?: No, Desperados III is a real-time tactics game with a 'Showdown Mode' that allows you to pause the action and queue commands, giving it a tactical pause feel, but it's not strictly turn-based.
How long is the campaign in Desperados III?: The main campaign typically takes around 25-30 hours to complete, but completionists looking to achieve all badges and objectives can expect to spend much more time.
Is there multiplayer in Desperados III?: No, Desperados III is a single-player experience focusing on its intricate tactical campaign.
Do I need to play previous Desperados games to understand the story?: Desperados III is a prequel, so while playing previous titles might offer some nostalgic context, it's not necessary to enjoy or understand the story. It serves as an excellent standalone entry.

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Last updated: 01/04/2026