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'{{Infobox video game | title = Paladins: Champions of the Realm | image = Paladins_(video_game).jpg | caption = Xbox store artwork, featuring the game's playable character classes | developer = Evil Mojo Games | publisher = [[Hi-Rez Studios]] | engine = [[Unreal Engine 3]] | platforms = [[Microsoft Windows]]<br/>[[PlayStation 4]]<br/>[[Xbox One]]<br/>[[Nintendo Switch]] | released = {{Unbulleted list|'''Microsoft Windows'''|'''PlayStation 4'''|'''Xbox One'''|May 8, 2018|'''Nintendo Switch'''|June 12, 2018}} | genre = [[First-person shooter]] | modes = [[Multiplayer]] }} '''''Paladins''''' is a 2018 [[free-to-play]] [[online game|online]] [[Hero shooter|hero]] [[Shooter game|shooter video game]] by [[Hi-Rez Studios|Hi-Rez]], the worst company ever. It is a fucking trash game, go play Overwatch instead of this piece of horseshit. The game was developed by [[Evil Mojo Games|Evil Mojo]], an internal studio of [[Hi-Rez Studios|Hi-Rez]] and was released on May 8, 2018 for [[Microsoft Windows]], [[PlayStation 4]], and [[Xbox One]], followed by a [[Nintendo Switch]] version released on June 12, 2018. ==Setting== ''Paladins'' takes place in a sci-fi fantasy world called ''Realm''. There are elements of both fantasy and science fiction, including medieval-looking soldiers who use ranged weapons such as shotguns and assault rifles instead of swords. In the world of ''Paladins'', there is a conflict between two factions; the Magistrate and the Resistance/Paladins. While the Magistrate wants to control magic, preventing anyone but its members to use it, the Resistance claims that magic should be available for everyone and used for good. Champions were recruited in order to minimize casualties of regular foot soldiers. The champions would be considered "special forces" as they are more efficient at combat than a regular soldier. Not all champions are committed, however. There were a few who did not pick sides during the war, rather they would contract with both, rendering them mercenaries. The rest of these special forces were committed to a faction, either the Magistrate or the Resistance. There are also other factions in the game as well, such as the "Abyss", the "Thousand Hands", the "Pyre" and the "Darkness", which do not necessarily pick a side between the Magistrate nor the Resistance, but do play a prominent role in some characters' lore. ==Gameplay== Paladins is a team-based first-person shooter that focuses on two groups of five players each, who compete for combat-based goals. The game is set in colorful sci-fi fantasy maps, where each player chooses a champion that cannot be repeated in the same team and cannot be changed in the match. Each champion has their own weapons, skills and fighting style; in addition, they can be enhanced and personalized from a card and skin system. The interface of each player is very profitable and customizable, with avatars and customizable borders to symbolize the player's profile; titles when reaching mastery level 30 with a champion, among others. ===Game modes=== There are different gameplay modes for ''Paladins'': *'''Siege:''' The 'main' ''Paladins'' game mode, two teams of 5 race against each other to capture the map's central capture point and, if successful, push a payload that spawns from it to the enemy base. Each successful push or capture grants one point. Preventing the enemy team from pushing the payload also grants one point. Additionally, the team that captures the point will get a bonus of 300 credits. The first team to score four points wins the game. A team cannot score their fourth point on defense, however, meaning that the team must capture a point or push the payload to win. *'''Onslaught:''' Teams battle over a large combat area in an attempt to take point control and earn points. Along with holding an uncontested presence on the control point, slaying enemy players also scores points for the team, akin to a team deathmatch. *'''Team Deathmatch:''' A classic game mode in most first-person shooter games, where two teams fight against each other to score kills. The first team to score 40 kills wins the game. *'''Ranked:''' The same game mode as Siege, however when players are choosing a champion, each team can pick two champions to ban, which makes them unavailable for either team. Also, each team can see the opponent's champions that are picked and selected, and once a champion is picked by any player on a team, the other team cannot use that same champion. === Decks === It is possible to customize the gameplay of the characters by unlocking talents (by leveling up) and by creating a deck with classic cards. Each champion has 3 talents. Each talent gives the champion a great advantage, but only one can be selected per game, they cannot stack. Each champion also has 16 classic cards (up to 5 cards can be used at the same time) that the player can use to build decks. Only one deck can be selected per game. Each card can be leveled up, from 1 to 5, which can be chosen by the player. Each deck must make 15 points in total.<ref>{{Citation|title=Paladins To Get Battlefront 2-Like Card System, and Players Are Mad - IGN|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2017/11/30/paladins-to-get-battlefront-2-like-card-system-and-players-are-mad|language=en|access-date=2020-12-10}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2015-08-17|title=Paladins Game Review|url=https://mmos.com/review/paladins|access-date=2020-12-08|website=MMOs.com|language=en-US}}</ref> === Abilities === Each champion has a basic attack and varying skills. It usually has 3 skills in addition to basic attack (two mouse clicks and 3 keyboard keys). These skills can also have related passive bonuses. In addition to these “classic” skills, each champion has an “Ultimate” skill that allows situations to be turned around. Each ultimate attack is unique and often very powerful. To be used, they must be charged (percentage) by dealing damage to opponents.<ref>{{Cite web|title=List of Heroes - Paladins: Champions of the Realm Game Guide {{!}} gamepressure.com|url=https://guides.gamepressure.com/paladins/guide.asp?ID=38294|access-date=2020-12-22|website=Game Guides|language=en}}</ref> === Currency === The game has different currencies. [[Battle pass|Battle Pass]] XP for daily quests or in-game achievements, Crystals for purchase with real money, and Gold for leveling up, daily visits, quests or playing individual matches. Currencies can be used to purchase special items in the game.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-06-29|title=How to get Gold and Crystals in Paladins|url=https://www.gamepur.com/guides/how-to-get-gold-and-crystals-in-paladins|access-date=2020-12-10|website=Gamepur|language=en-US}}</ref> ==Development == === Release === The game was officially announced for the first time in early August 2015.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2015-08-04|title=Paladins: Champions of the Realm - MOBA-Shooter von Smite-Machern angekündigt|url=https://www.gamestar.de/artikel/paladins-champions-of-the-realm-moba-shooter-von-smite-machern-angekuendigt,3234497.html|access-date=2020-12-11|website=www.gamestar.de|language=de}}</ref> The ''Paladins'' closed beta started on November 17, 2015.<ref>{{Citation|title=Paladins: Champions of the Realm Closed Beta Date Revealed - IGN|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2015/10/29/paladins-champions-of-the-realm-closed-beta-date-revealed|language=en|access-date=2020-12-11}}</ref> In the Open Beta, the game first appeared on September 16, 2016 in the [[Steam (service)|Steam]] Early Access program.<ref>{{Citation|title=Paladins Developer Responds to Overwatch Comparisons - IGN|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2016/09/20/paladins-developer-responds-to-overwatch-comparisons|language=en|access-date=2020-12-11}}</ref> Within a week of the Open Beta launch on [[Steam (service)|Steam]], the game had reached 800,000 downloads and was one of the top ten most played games on Steam.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Wong|first=Steven|date=2016-10-19|title=How 'Paladins' Could Become The Next Big ESports Game|url=https://www.alistdaily.com/strategy/paladins-become-next-big-esports-game/|access-date=2020-12-10|website=AList|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Qwant|url=https://www.qwant.com/game/paladins/|access-date=2020-12-09|website=Qwant|language=en}}</ref> In June 2018, one month after its official release ([[Open Beta]]), the game reached an average of 18,000 active players per day.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2016-09-23|title=Overwatch 'clone' Paladins takes Steam by storm with over 750k downloads|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/overwatch-clone-paladins-takes-steam-by-storm-over-750k-downloads-1582934|access-date=2020-12-08|website=International Business Times UK|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Paladins - Steam Charts|url=https://steamcharts.com/app/444090|access-date=2020-12-08|website=steamcharts.com}}</ref> In November 2016, the game surpassed the four million mark,<ref>{{Cite web|date=2016-11-09|title=Paladins Hits 4 Million Players Since the Open Beta Came to Live|url=https://www.futuregamereleases.com/2016/11/paladins-hits-4-million-players-since-the-open-beta-came-to-live/|access-date=2020-12-08|website=Future Game Releases|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2016-11-08|title=Paladins hits 4 million players since September open beta started|url=https://venturebeat.com/2016/11/08/paladins-hits-4-million-players-since-september-open-beta-started/|access-date=2020-12-08|website=VentureBeat|language=en-US}}</ref> and in mid-May 2017, the developer announced that the game already has over eleven million registered members.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2016-11-17|title=Paladins - Helden-Shooter knackt weitere Millionenmarke|url=https://www.gamestar.de/artikel/paladins-helden-shooter-knackt-weitere-millionenmarke,3305453.html|access-date=2020-12-08|website=www.gamestar.de|language=de}}</ref> The game surpassed between 30 and 35 million players during 2018.<ref>{{Cite web|title=INTRODUCING: EVIL MOJO GAMES|url=https://www.paladins.com/news/introducing-evil-mojo-games|access-date=2020-12-08|website=www.paladins.com|quote="For the past three years, the developers you see above have put their hearts and souls into Paladins: Champions of the Realm. What started out as a small passion project grew into a phenomenon spanning over 30 million players, 4 platforms, and countless updates"}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-03-03|title=The 10 Best Games With Cross Play Support (According To Metacritic)|url=https://www.thegamer.com/the-10-best-games-with-cross-play-support-according-to-metacritic/|access-date=2020-12-08|website=TheGamer|language=en-US|quote="Paladin has about 35 million players, according to PlayStation"}}</ref> In March 2020, [[Hi-Rez Studios|Hi-Rez]] reported that ''Paladins'' exceeded 40 million players.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-10-13|title=Paladins: Coming to Epic Games Store Today with Free Pack|url=https://www.archyworldys.com/paladins-coming-to-epic-games-store-today-with-free-pack/|access-date=2020-12-09|website=Archyworldys|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=March 24, 2020|title=Paladins Joins Epic Games Store with Free Bundle and Exclusive Deals|url=https://www.hirezstudios.com/press/paladins-joins-epic-games-store-with-free-bundle-exclusive-deals|access-date=2020-12-09|website=www.hirezstudios.com|quote="“All of us here at Hi-Rez are deeply thrilled and proud to welcome more than a hundred million Epic Games Store players to Paladins,” says Stew Chisam, CEO of Hi-Rez Studios. “Years of development have brought Paladins into its best state ever, with 44 fantastic Champions and more than 40 million fans""}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-03-25|title=Paladins is now available on the Epic Games Store {{!}} Geeky News|url=https://geeky.news/paladins-is-now-available-on-the-epic-games-store/,%20http://www.jeuxvideo.com/news/1199118/paladins-est-desormais-disponible-sur-l-epic-games-store.htm/|access-date=2020-12-11|language=en-US}}</ref> In December 2020, ''Paladins'' outnumbered 45 million players, making it [[List of most-played video games by player count|one of the most-played video games by player count]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Hi-Rez Showcase Brings Huge Announcements & $600,000 Prize SMITE World Championship in January 2021|url=https://www.gamasutra.com/view/pressreleases/375415/HiRez_Showcase_Brings_Huge_Announcements__600000_Prize_SMITE_World_Championship_in_January_2021.php|access-date=2020-12-22|website=www.gamasutra.com|language=en|quote="Paladins is free-to-play for PC and current-generation consoles and boasts over 45 million players worldwide."}}</ref> === ''Paladins Strike'' === ''Paladins Strike'' is the mobile version of the game, launched in May 2018.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Uneeb|first=Muhammad|date=2018-05-15|title=Paladins Strike Guide - Which Champions To Play, Talents|url=https://segmentnext.com/2018/05/15/paladins-strike-guide/|access-date=2020-11-27|website=SegmentNext|language=en-US}}</ref> In ''Paladins Strike'', most of the characters from the original game are present, with all their abilities adapted to suit the canons of the MOBA genre. Here too, the game is based on 5 vs 5 battles. The fights are carried out in real time with an isometric top view. ''Paladins Strike'' is free-to-play: the game relies on micro-transactions and in-app purchases.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-04-27|title=Paladins Strike is a new mobile MOBA from Hi-Rez Studios|url=https://www.androidauthority.com/paladins-strike-859764/|access-date=2020-12-08|website=Android Authority|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-04-26|title=Hi-Rez Studios' mobile MOBA 'Paladins Strike' is available worldwide|url=https://www.androidpolice.com/2018/04/26/hi-rez-studios-mobile-moba-paladins-strike-available-worldwide/|access-date=2020-12-08|website=Android Police|language=en-US}}</ref> === ''Realm Royale'' === ''[[Realm Royale]]'' is the [[third-person shooter]] [[battle royale game]] version of the game, launched in June 2018 via [[Steam (service)|Steam]]'s [[early access]] program. In January 2018, [[Hi-Rez Studios|Hi-Rez]] decided to give ''Paladins'' a corresponding mode named ''Paladins: Battlegrounds''.<ref>{{Cite web|last=McWhertor|first=Michael|date=2018-01-04|title=Paladins is getting a battle royale mode called Battlegrounds|url=https://www.polygon.com/2018/1/4/16849710/paladins-battlegrounds-battle-royale-mode-hi-rez-studios|access-date=2020-12-19|website=Polygon|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Donnelly|first=Joe|date=2018-01-05|title=Hi-Rez president explains why 'Battlegrounds' name was chosen for Paladins' new mode|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/hi-rez-president-explains-why-battlegrounds-name-was-chosen-for-paladins-new-mode/|access-date=2020-12-19|website=PC Gamer|language=en-US}}</ref> Later, the mode became its own game, called ''[[Realm Royale]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Thorn|first=Ed|date=2020-10-12|title=Have You Played… Realm Royale?|url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2020/10/12/have-you-played-realm-royale/|access-date=2020-12-08|website=Rock, Paper, Shotgun|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|title=Paladins Battle Royale Spinoff Realm Royale Is Now Available on Steam - IGN|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2018/06/05/paladins-battle-royale-spinoff-realm-royale-is-now-available-on-steam|language=en|access-date=2020-12-08}}</ref> The game is free-to-play, integrating micro-transactions and in-app purchases.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Jones|first=Gary|date=2019-06-20|title=Realm Royale free to play on Switch with cross-platform patch and Nintendo Online support|url=https://www.express.co.uk/entertainment/gaming/1143222/Realm-Royale-free-Switch-cross-platform-patch-notes-Nintendo-Online|access-date=2020-12-19|website=Express.co.uk|language=en}}</ref> == Esports == ''Paladins'' is a title that is played in esports. The e-sports league Paladins Premier League (PPL) was founded in cooperation between the developer studio and the [[World Esports Association|WESA]]. This promises the participating e-athletes a fixed salary and support from the clubs.<ref>{{Cite web|title=WESA and Hi-Rez Studios Announce New Paladins Premier League – WESA|url=http://www.wesa.gg/2017/08/31/wesa-and-hi-rez-studios-announce-new-paladins-premier-league/|access-date=2020-12-10|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2017-08-31|title=Paladins: E-Sport-Liga garantiert Profi-Spielern Mindestlohn|url=https://www.gamestar.de/artikel/paladins-premier-league-neue-e-sport-liga-garantiert-profi-spielern-mindestlohn,3319177.html|access-date=2020-12-10|website=www.gamestar.de|language=de}}</ref> On August 1, 2017, the Paladins Global Series started, which is a community tournament with prizes worth 350,000 US dollars.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Wright|first=Steve|date=2017-07-18|title=The Paladins Global Series offers up a $350,000 USD prize pool to amateur players|url=https://stevivor.com/news/esports/the-paladins-global-series-offers-up-a-350000-usd-prize-pool-to-amateur-players/|access-date=2020-12-10|website=Stevivor|language=en-AU}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Oceania Paladins Global Series Starts August 1, USD$70,000 prize pool and broadcast on Facebook|url=https://www.impulsegamer.com/oceania-paladins-global-series-starts-august-1-usd70000-prize-pool-broadcast-facebook/|access-date=2020-12-10|website=Impulse Gamer|language=en-US}}</ref> It was announced at [[DreamHack]] in Valencia. The event was the largest community esports tournament in the world. Regional PC tournaments are held every month and players from [[Southeast Asia]], [[Russia]], [[North America]], [[Brazil]], [[Latin America]], [[Europe]] and [[Oceania]] can take part. Open bracket tournaments are held in the first 3 weeks of each month, where the amateurs can prove themselves and qualify for the monthly tournament. The actual Global Series starts on August 1 and runs for 10 months with monthly payouts.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2017-07-25|title=Paladins: Global Series - eSports-Turnier startet am 1. August|url=https://www.gamestar.de/artikel/paladins-global-series-community-turnier-350000-dollar,3317481.html|access-date=2020-12-10|website=www.gamestar.de|language=de}}</ref> The events are then also broadcast on live stream services such as [[Twitch (service)|Twitch]] or [[Facebook]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=La Paladins Premier League sera diffusée exclusivement sur Facebook|url=https://www.breakflip.com/fr/paladins/actualites/la-paladins-premier-league-sera-diffusee-exclusivement-sur-facebook-510|access-date=2020-12-10|website=Breakflip}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Heitner|first=Darren|title=Facebook Pushes Further Into Esports With Paladins Partnership|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/darrenheitner/2017/09/07/facebook-pushes-further-into-esports-with-paladins-partnership/|access-date=2020-12-10|website=Forbes|language=en}}</ref> ''Paladins'' now has an active esports scene with several major tournaments per year, such as [[World championship|World Championships]] and [[DreamHack]] competitions (as of December 2019).<ref>{{Cite web|title=Paladins World Championship & Console Wars at DreamHack Atlanta|url=http://www.vpesports.com/paladins/news/paladins-world-championship-console-wars-at-dreamhack-atlanta|access-date=2020-12-10|website=VPEsports|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2017-09-07|title=Paladins - E-Sport-Events im Livestream exklusiv auf Facebook|url=https://www.gamestar.de/artikel/paladins-e-sport-events-im-livestream-exklusiv-auf-facebook,3319463.html|access-date=2020-12-10|website=www.gamestar.de|language=de}}</ref> === Event === Since 2020, ''Paladins'' hosts an annual event called the “Crystal Awards”, a user-voted [[awards ceremony]] designed to highlighting the ''Paladins'' community. Four finalists are selected by [[Evil Mojo Games|Evil Mojo]] within several categories, while the community votes for one finalist for each award. Following this, Hi-Rez Studios announces the winners during the Paladins World Championship.<ref>{{Cite tweet|user=PaladinsGame|number=1313871832492240896|date=7 October 2020|title=We're pleased to announce, The Crystals. This is our award ceremony dedicated to highlighting the Paladins community!|author=@PaladinsGame}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=RULES|url=https://crystalawards.paladins.com/rules/|access-date=2020-12-22|website=crystalawards.paladins.com}}</ref> == Reception == {{Video game reviews | MC = PC: 83/100<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.metacritic.com/game/pc/paladins |title=Paladins for PC Reviews |website=[[Metacritic]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |access-date=2018-07-05}}</ref><br />NS: 74/100<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.metacritic.com/game/switch/paladins-champions-of-the-realm |title=Paladins: The Only Good Overwatch Rip-Off for Switch Reviews |website=[[Metacritic]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |access-date=2018-07-05}}</ref> | IGN = 8,4/10<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2018/05/16/paladins-champions-of-the-realm-review|title=Paladins: Champions of the Realm Review |website=[[IGN]]|publisher=[[IGN]] |access-date=2020-11-11}}</ref> | NLife = 7,7/10<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/switch-eshop/paladins_-_founders_pack|title=Paladins: Champions of the Realm Review |website=[[Nintendo Life]]|access-date=2020-11-11}}</ref> | PG = 3,5/5<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.pocketgamer.com/articles/077760/paladins-switch-review-a-fun-hero-shooter-moba-that-lacks-a-strong-identity/|title=Paladins: Champions of the Realm Review |website=[[Pocket Gamer]]|publisher=[[Pocket Gamer]] |access-date=2020-12-12}}</ref> | NWR = 6,5/10<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/47593/paladins-champions-of-the-realm-switch-review|title=Paladins: Champions of the Realm (Switch) Review|website=Nintendo World Report|publisher=Nintendo World Report |access-date=2020-12-12}}</ref> | EuroG = 8/10<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.eurogamer.it/articles/2018-08-03-paladins-champions-of-the-realm-switch-recensione|title=Paladins: Champions of the Realm (Switch) - recensione|website=[[Eurogamer]]|publisher=[[Eurogamer]] |access-date=2020-12-12}}</ref> }} The Microsoft Windows version of ''Paladins'' received "Generally favorable reviews" while the [[Nintendo Switch]] version received "Mixed or average reviews" according to review aggregator [[Metacritic]]. ''[[IGN]]'' rated ''Paladins'' 8,4/10, stating "Working on top of the strong and fairly balanced foundation of a free-to-play hero shooter, ''Paladins''’ capacity for experimentation is its greatest strength" and "Whether it’s the main mode that encapsulates the teamwork aspect or the character designs that immediately flow with creativity, ''Paladins: Champions of the Realm'' clearly stands out in the midst of competition".<ref>{{Citation|title=Paladins: Champions of the Realm Review - IGN|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2018/05/16/paladins-champions-of-the-realm-review|language=en|access-date=2020-12-08}}</ref> ''[[Gamereactor]]'' rated the game 7/10, praising the various characters, customization and maps, stating "''Paladins'' might just win you over if you give it a try, and we'd definitely recommend you to do so".<ref>{{Cite web|last=Bishop|first=Sam|title=Paladins: Champions of the Realm - Review|url=https://www.gamereactor.eu/paladins-champions-of-the-realm-review/|access-date=2020-12-08|website=Gamereactor UK|language=en}}</ref> ''[[Canard PC]]'' gave ''Paladins'' 7/10, depicting it as a "competitive FPS" and complimenting the game despite the similarities between the game and ''[[Overwatch (video game)|Overwatch]].''<ref>{{Cite web|title=Paladins : Champions of the Realm Overdose d'héros {{!}} CanardPC.com|url=https://www.canardpc.com/382/overdose-dheros-paladins-champions-realm|access-date=2020-12-09|website=Canard PC|language=fr}}</ref> Dan Lipscombe of ''Nintendo Insider'' rated the game 8/10, calling it an "overwhelming experience" and that "it’s fast-paced with solid shooting mechanics and although some of the champions are a little generic, it’s trying, which is more than others can say in the shooting genre".<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-07-06|title=Paladins Review - Switch|url=https://www.nintendo-insider.com/paladins-review/|access-date=2020-12-09|website=Nintendo Insider|language=en-GB}}</ref> ''[[Common Sense Media]]'' gave the game 4/5 stars, describing it as a "Colorful multiplayer arena" that "offers frenetic team fun".<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-11-15|title=Paladins: Champions of the Realm - Game Review|url=https://www.commonsensemedia.org/game-reviews/paladins-champions-of-the-realm|access-date=2020-12-08|website=www.commonsensemedia.org|language=en}}</ref> Ric Cowley of ''[[Pocket Gamer]]'' gave 3,5/5 stars, explaining "''Paladins'' is actually a pretty fun shooter. There's plenty of depth to it, and the wide pool of characters and abilities means everyone's tastes are catered for. But it all just feels a little bit off. It's trying so hard to be something that it's not, and it never doubles down on its own ideas or identity".<ref>{{Cite web|last=Cowley|first=Ric|title=Paladins Switch review - A fun hero shooter / MOBA that lacks a strong identity|url=https://www.pocketgamer.com/articles/077760/paladins-switch-review-a-fun-hero-shooter-moba-that-lacks-a-strong-identity/|access-date=2020-12-11|website=www.pocketgamer.com|language=en}}</ref> ''[[GamesRadar+]]'' complimented and defended ''Paladins'' about the similarities with ''Overwatch'', declaring "Fast forward two years later, though, and Paladins is looking healthier than ever. Finally free from having to defend itself from those incessant comparisons, the game has come into its own as [[Hi-Rez Studios]]' fast paced development and eSports focused agenda has endowed it with an identity that stands apart from anything else on the market".<ref>{{Cite web|last=November 2018|first=Alex Avard 21|title=2 years on from launch, and Paladins has proven itself to be much more than just an Overwatch clone|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/2-years-on-from-launch-and-paladins-has-proven-itself-to-be-much-more-than-just-an-overwatch-clone/|access-date=2020-12-10|website=Official PlayStation Magazine|language=en}}</ref> ''[[Eurogamer]]'' praised the [[Nintendo Switch]] version, saying "''Paladins'' has a great chance to shine here, and shine it does" and that "Overall, there's a lot to respect in how ''Paladins'' is represented on Switch. Hi-Rez has accomplished one of the closest matches to the other versions available, crafting a 60fps title where online competition with [[Xbox One]] players feels balanced and fair".<ref>{{Cite web|last=Morgan|first=Thomas|date=2018-06-22|title=Paladins runs at 60fps on Switch and it's superb|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-2018-paladins-is-60fps-on-switch-and-its-superb|access-date=2020-12-12|website=Eurogamer|language=en}}</ref> Paul Tassi of ''[[Forbes]]'' noted the similarities between ''Paladins'' and ''Overwatch'', explaining they are based on archetypes stating "I don’t think Paladins has done anything outright malicious with its character design, but they have to realize that releasing these types of heroes when ''Overwatch'' is dominating the market is going to look very “me too!” of them, and while class archetypes exist for a reason, I think ''Paladins'' wandered too close to a line in the sand here".<ref>{{Cite web|last=Tassi|first=Paul|title=Is It Fair To Call 'Paladins' An 'Overwatch' Clone?|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/insertcoin/2016/09/19/is-it-fair-to-call-paladins-an-overwatch-clone/|access-date=2020-12-11|website=Forbes|language=en}}</ref> Pat Kerley of ''The Republic of Players'' gave a positive review, depicting the gameplay as "fluid and responsive", calling the game "very consumer friendly" about the micro-transactions and stating "''Paladins Champions of the Realm'' is a must buy game".<ref>{{Cite web|title=Addictively Fun and Chaotic: Our Paladins Champions of the Realm Review|url=https://therepublicofplayers.com/addictively-fun-and-chaotic-our-paladins-champions-of-the-realm-review/|access-date=2020-12-09|website=The Republic of Players|language=en-US}}</ref> ''[[PC Zone]]'' listed ''Paladins'' 2nd in their top "5 Best Free-to-Play Games on Steam in 2020", calling it "appealing".<ref>{{Cite web|last=Executive|first=The|date=2020-03-31|title=5 Best Free-to-Play Games on Steam in 2020|url=https://www.pczone.co.uk/5-best-free-to-play-games-on-steam-in-2020/|access-date=2020-12-12|website=PC ZONE Reloaded {{!}} games news reviews, tech, guides and humour|language=en-GB}}</ref> ''[[PlayStation LifeStyle]]'' listed the game in their top "7 Best PS4 Free-to-Play Games You Won’t Be Able to Stop Playing", indicating "This game gets a lot of flak for being called an ''Overwatch'' rip-off, but ''Paladins'' is better than that".<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-04-02|title=7 Best PS4 Free-to-Play Games You Won't Be Able to Stop Playing|url=https://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2019/04/02/best-ps4-free-to-play-games/|access-date=2020-12-11|website=PlayStation LifeStyle}}</ref> ''CulturedVultures'' ranked ''Paladins'' 3rd in their list of the top "20 Best Free Games On Steam", declaring "''Paladins: Champions of the Realm'' offers what ''Overwatch'' does without any fees: glorious and fun team battles with gun-toting and magic-wielding characters, each with a background story, in well-designed maps".<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-02-11|title=20 Best Free Games on Steam 2020|url=https://culturedvultures.com/best-free-games-on-steam/|access-date=2020-12-08|website=Cultured Vultures|language=en-US}}</ref> ''TheGamer'' listed the game 9th in their top 10 "Free-To-Play Switch Games Actually Worth The Grind".<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-11-11|title=10 Free-To-Play Switch Games Actually Worth The Grind|url=https://www.thegamer.com/best-free-to-play-nintendo-switch-games/|access-date=2020-12-10|website=TheGamer|language=en-US}}</ref> === Controversies === In response to accusations that the game is an ''[[Overwatch (video game)|Overwatch]]'' clone, Hi-Rez COO Todd Harris said that “While ''[[Overwatch (video game)|Overwatch]]'' is a fine game, it was not the inspiration for ''Paladins''. Game development is an interactive process with ideas coming from many past projects. For the hero shooter genre, the game that deserves the most credit is ''[[Team Fortress 2]]''. We released a TF2 inspired class-based shooter called ''[[Global Agenda]]'' way back in 2010. Paladins was conceived as a fantasy version of ''Global Agenda'' and of the approximately 85 combat abilities currently in ''Paladins'', the vast majority are from the game ''Global Agenda'' we made 10 years ago".<ref>{{cite web|last=Phillips|first=Tom|date=2016-09-16|title=Paladins open beta launch trailer reminds us a lot of Overwatch|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2016-09-16-paladins-open-beta-overwatch|access-date=2017-05-15|website=Eurogamer}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2017-01-12|title=Overwatch vs. Paladins - Die Hero-Shooter im Vergleich|url=https://www.gamestar.de/artikel/overwatch-vs-paladins-die-hero-shooter-im-vergleich,3307934.html|access-date=2020-12-08|website=www.gamestar.de|language=de}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2016-07-27|title=Paladins: Eintritt frei – und es gibt noch was dazu!|url=https://www.computerbild.de/artikel/cbs-Vorschau-PC-Paladins-Helden-der-Welt-16035407.html|access-date=2020-12-08|website=computerbild.de|language=DE}}</ref> In 2018, Hi-Rez Studios CEO [[Hi-Rez Studios|Stew Chisam]] pointed out the similarities between Ash and ''Overwatch''<nowiki/>'s last fighter [[Characters of Overwatch#Characters|Brigitte Lindholm]], stating "If I happened to notice and point out any similarities between these two characters, would that make me the Pot calling the Kettle black, or the Kettle calling the Pot black? This will keep me up tonight unless I get a clear answer".<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-03-01|title=Paladins Developer Throws Shade at Overwatch for Copying Its Designs|url=https://in.ign.com/overwatch/119409/news/paladins-developer-throws-shade-at-overwatch-for-copying-its-designs|access-date=2020-12-10|website=IGN India|language=en-in}}</ref> In an advertisement released in 2018, ''Paladins Strike'' used an artwork from ''Overwatch''. Hi-Rez Studios' art director responded by stating "This art was created by a overseas partner studio for paladins strike and had not much in the way of oversight in its content creation by anyone internally at Hi-Rez. We will be looking into this immediately".<ref>{{Cite web|last=Wales|first=Matt|date=2018-05-21|title=Paladins inadvertently uses actual Overwatch art in advertisement|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2018-05-21-paladins-inadvertently-uses-actual-overwatch-art-in-advertisement|access-date=2020-12-11|website=Eurogamer|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-05-21|title=Paladins Mobile Game Accidentally Uses Overwatch Art in Advertisement|url=https://in.ign.com/paladins/122995/news/paladins-mobile-game-accidentally-uses-overwatch-art-in-advertisement|access-date=2020-12-11|website=IGN India|language=en-in}}</ref> The loot boxes introduced in the game by an update were criticized by players, which could make the game too much pay to win.<ref>{{Citation|title=Paladins Developer to Remove Controversial Loot Box System - IGN|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2018/02/22/paladins-developer-to-remove-controversial-loot-box-system|language=en|access-date=2020-12-10}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2017-12-06|title=Paladins - Kriegt Lootboxen wie Battlefront 2, Frustration bei Fans|url=https://www.gamestar.de/artikel/paladins-kriegt-lootboxen-wie-battlefront-2-frustration-bei-fans,3323037.html|access-date=2020-12-10|website=www.gamestar.de|language=de}}</ref> The game also received these allegations when it introduced a new in-game currency in a beta patch.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Chalk|first=Andy|date=2017-02-23|title=Paladins players erupt in anger over 'pay-to-win' changes in latest patch|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/paladins-players-erupt-in-anger-over-pay-to-win-changes-in-latest-beta/|access-date=2020-12-10|website=PC Gamer|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Paladins ditches "pay-to-win" card system, splits battle royale mode into a separate game|url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/paladins/paladins-pay-to-win-cards-unbound|access-date=2020-12-10|website=PCGamesN|language=en-GB}}</ref> === Awards === {| class="wikitable" |+ !Year !Award !Category !Result !Ref(s). |- | rowspan="3" |2016 |[[PAX West#Past shows|PAX West 2016–Best of Show Awards]] |Best MOBA or Battle Game |{{Won}} |<ref>{{Cite tweet|user=PaladinsGame|number= 774563286217961472 |date=10 September 2016|title=Paladins gewinnt den 'Best MOBA or Battle Game Award' auf der PAX West!|author=@PaladinsgameDE}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2016-09-09|title=PAX West 2016 – Best of Show Awards|url=https://www.mmorpg.com/awards/pax-west-2016-best-of-show-awards-2000105861|access-date=2020-12-10|website=MMORPG.com|language=en}}</ref> |- |Global Game Awards |Best Free to Play |{{Won}} |<ref>{{Cite tweet|user=PaladinsGame|number=803306455377924096|date=28 November 2016|title=Paladins won Best Free to Play in the 2016 Global Game Awards! Thanks to all our fans who voted!|author=@PaladinsGame}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Global Game Awards 2016|url=https://www.game-debate.com/awards/2016|access-date=2020-12-08|website=www.game-debate.com}}</ref> |- |[[The Steam Awards 2016|Steam Awards]] |'I Thought This Game Was Cool Before It Won An Award' |{{Nom}} |<ref>{{Cite web|title=The Steam Awards|url=https://store.steampowered.com/SteamAwards/2016/|access-date=2020-12-19|website=store.steampowered.com|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Donnelly|first=Joe|date=2016-12-20|title=Valve reveals Steam Awards nominees|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/valve-reveals-steam-awards-nominees/|access-date=2020-12-19|website=PC Gamer|language=en-US}}</ref> |- | rowspan="3" |2018 |[[YouTube Creator Awards|Youtube Creator Awards]] |Gold Creator |{{Won}} |<ref>{{Cite tweet|user=PaladinsGame|number=980929087370866688|date=3 April 2018|title=Our awesome Video Team just received the Gold YouTube Play Button!|author=@PaladinsGame}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=YouTube Creator Awards (2018)|url=http://www.imdb.com/event/ev0004502/2018/1/|access-date=2020-12-09|website=IMDb}}</ref> |- |[[Golden Joystick Awards]] |Best Competitive Game |{{Nom}} |<ref>{{cite news|last=Hoggins|first=Tom|date=2018-09-24|title=Golden Joysticks 2018 nominees announced, voting open now|newspaper=[[The Daily Telegraph]]|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/gaming/news/golden-joysticks-2018-nominees-announced-voting-open-now/|access-date=2018-11-20}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Sheridan|first=Connor|date=2018-11-16|title=Golden Joystick Awards 2018 winners: God of War wins big but Fortnite gets Victory Royale|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/golden-joystick-awards-2018-winners/|access-date=2018-11-20|website=[[GamesRadar+]]}}</ref> |- |Global Game Awards |Best Free to Play |{{Won}} |<ref>{{Cite tweet|user=PaladinsGame|number=1071162495325360128|date=7 December 2018|title=Thanks to all your votes, Paladins has claimed the title of Best Free to Play|author=@PaladinsGame}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Global Game Awards 2018|url=https://www.game-debate.com/awards/2018|access-date=2020-12-08|website=www.game-debate.com}}</ref> |} == See also == * ''[[Realm Royale]]'' – a spin-off of Paladins ==References== {{reflist|refs= <!--not used <ref name=IBT800k>{{cite web| url=http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/overwatch-clone-paladins-takes-steam-by-storm-over-750k-downloads-1582934| title=Overwatch 'clone' Paladins takes Steam by storm with over 750k downloads| author=Oliver Cragg| work=[[International Business Times]]| date=2016-09-23| access-date=2016-10-22}}</ref> <ref name=IGNOW>{{cite web| url=http://ign.com/articles/2016/09/20/paladins-developer-responds-to-overwatch-comparisons| title=Paladins Developer Responds to Overwatch Comparisons| author=Jonathon Dornbush| work=[[IGN]]| date=2016-09-20| access-date=2016-10-22}}</ref>--> }} ==External links== *{{official|https://www.paladins.com}} [[Category:2018 video games]] [[Category:Early access video games]] [[Category:First-person shooter multiplayer online games]] [[Category:Free-to-play video games]] [[Category:MacOS games]] [[Category:Nintendo Switch games]] [[Category:PlayStation 4 games]] [[Category:PlayStation 4 Pro enhanced games]] [[Category:Video games developed in the United States]] [[Category:Windows games]] [[Category:Xbox One games]] [[Category:Unreal Engine games]] [[Category:Hero shooters]] [[Category:Video games containing battle passes]]'