As always seems to be the case with ELK Studios games, Crusader comes hand in hand with a well-thought-out backstory. As the name strongly hints, our protagonist is a valiant crusader from the year 1291.
The city of Acre is the last stronghold and has come under heavy attack from an enemy by the name of Mamluks. Edward I has decided to assemble all crusaders to make a final push against the aggressors. And so we spin the reels and watch our handsome knight put up a fight. His success or failure will remain something of a mystery, unless you judge the outcome based on your cash balance. Either way the design is brilliant, with clear graphics and an attention to detail that marks a quality provider.
The symbols are all inspired by typical crusader items, plus card suits that have been designed up to fit the theme. The highest paying symbol is a golden grail encrusted with gemstones. Despite the fact that the game is called Crusader, we only get to see one of these on the reels, and there are no battle sequences or any such excitement. Ironically, players who didn’t invest any time in the backstory might be more satisfied by the game itself.