Based on the popular MtG card game, this ill-conceived version of the elemental dueling system fails to meet this reviewer's expectations. I had anticipated a graphically entertaining version of the 2D card game a'la the old Battle Chess game. However, Battlegrounds is off the mark when it comes to 'clearing the bar'. Primarily at fault is the sluggish interface. Not only is the player at a disdvantage reflex-wise, but even when negotiating deck set-up and game options, the interface proves cumbersome. Once the player trudges through the interface mire, he has to deal with the fixed speed of the game's duel system. I had difficulty perceiving my own actions because one is too wrapped up with trying to cast spells from the deck to see what is actually transpiring on the battlefield. Tactics fall by the wayside as one struggles to keep up with the pace that the AI opponent sets. I shudderto think what chaos insues when two people duel in VS mode. Hardcore MtG or real-time pseudo-strategy players may find this game a temporary gaming fix, but this reviewer recommends passing it by completely. It will save much frustration.
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