Revolution Software's 1996 classic — its history, how the press received it, how it plays today, and what a copy costs.
- Released
- 1996 · PC (DOS / Windows)
- Developer
- Revolution Software Ltd.
- Publisher
- Virgin Interactive Entertainment
- MobyScore
- ★ 8.4
- Players today
- Very Positive on Steam (94% of 605)
The history
Circle of Blood, known in Europe as Broken Sword: The Shadow of the Templars, is a 1996 point-and-click adventure developed by Revolution Software. Co-written and directed by Charles Cecil, the game serves as the foundational entry in the Broken Sword series.
The title mattered as a sophisticated blend of mystery and romance, transporting players from the streets of Paris to locations like Ireland and Syria. It established a narrative centered on an American tourist caught in a conspiracy linked to the legend of the Knights Templar.
How it plays
The game utilizes a third-person, point-and-select interface with 2D cartoon-like graphics. Players control George Stobbart, navigating environments with the mouse to examine surroundings and interact with characters, including the fearless French journalist Nico Collard.
The core loop revolves around solving puzzles across eleven chapters. This involves collecting various items in an inventory and combining or using them strategically to advance the investigation into the bombing of a Parisian café.
How it was received
Upon release, the game received generally favorable reviews, earning a Metacritic score of 82/100. Critics praised the variety of settings, humorous wisecracks, pop culture references, and the intricate, creative level designs. Specific scores included an 8/10 from GameSpot, 4/5 from Next Generation, 4/5 from GamePro, and 71% from PC Gamer (PCPP).
While GameSpot felt the game was "just too damn hard," Next Generation countered that it was challenging without being too difficult. Modern Steam sentiment remains Very Positive (566/605 positive), suggesting that the game's appeal has persisted far beyond its initial critical reception.
In the magazines
The period press.
GameSpot awarded the game an 8/10, Next Generation gave it 4/5, GamePro provided a 4/5, and PCPP scored it at 71%.
What players say today
Modern players describe the game as one of the all-time best point-and-click titles, praising its sense of humor and nostalgia. Some users highlight that the reforged version is perfect for newcomers, while others prefer the original release for its nostalgic value.
“When I heard that there's a remake of the first Broken Sword, it flared up a dormant desire inside me to relive the nightmare. I played this way back in college as a dare from one of my friends who le…”
“A blast of nostalgia. I'm having as much fun as I did when I first played it. These games are the GOAT. I just hope the next one comes soon.”
“Bought this game without having heard of the series before. Had an incredible time - played it all in one setting and have now bought the rest of the series. Amazing game wth a great sense of humour a…”
Screenshots
The box & the art
Cover art, and real copies photographed in the wild.
Legacy
Revolution Software continued to build on the success of this title with subsequent entries in the Broken Sword series. The game is worth seeking out today for its enduring quality as a premiere example of the point-and-click genre.
What it's worth
Copies surface on the second-hand market from time to time, but listings are sparse enough that there's no reliable price band to quote — check the live search for what's available right now.
See current copies on eBay →How to play it in 2026
Easiest today: Steam or GOG (DRM-free) on modern Windows. Either way the core game is intact.
The modern reforged version features 4K visuals and remastered audio. A notable addition for players is the ability to switch back to the old graphics by pressing the tab key to compare the changes.
Verdict
Circle of Blood holds up remarkably well, particularly in its remastered form. Its blend of atmospheric mystery and sharp wit ensures that the experience remains engaging for both veterans and first-time players.
Sources: MobyGames, Steam, and period/web coverage. Prices reflect the second-hand market and change over time.