In Flanders fields the poppies blow,

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky,

The larks, still bravely singing, fly,

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

 

These words were written by Lt. Col. John McCrae during the Great War (1914-18). Here in Canada, across Europe and other former British Colonies we marked the centennial anniversary of the start of the First World War this past July. Just prior to that on June 24th 2014 Ubisoft Montpellier released a small game to commemorate the occasion. After the jump, we have the details on this bite sized, but highly rated game.

As of 2012 we witnessed a world event passing from living history to written history when the last surviving veteran of the first world war passed away. Developed as an educational tool, Valiant Hearts: The Great War tells the fictional tale of some very real events. Set in the western front Valiant Hearts charm is apparent from start to finish. The art style is reminiscent of classic classroom history videos, right down to the narrator.

Mechanically, Valiant Hearts is equal parts point and click and 2D puzzle platformer with plenty of collectibles to keep you busy over several play-throughs, and you might even learn something.

Nothing about this game disrespects the time you spend with it. Although not a must own, Valiant Hearts is a well-recommended game. It is mechanically sound with an interesting story that will leave you with memorable characters.

Discuss:

What educational games have you played lately?