Unexplained Mysteries

Dark Messiah of Might & Magic

November 13, 2006 |  7 comments
Image Credit: Ok, so we don't usually review games, but when we were given the opportunity to get our hands on Arkane Studio's new PC first person action RPG title Dark Messiah of Might & Magic, we couldn't refuse. The game uses an enhanced version of the Source engine used in Half-Life 2, offering atmospheric and detailed visuals with a realistic physics system. In the single player mode you play the part of a wizard's disciple, Sareth, and while the storyline isn't anything particularly original it does its job and sees you through what is a refreshing and challenging adventure. The game generally involves completing a series of quests as you progress through the world, each tied in to the main storyline. Completing these objectives often involve numerous combat encounters as well as some light puzzle elements, and in combat encounters especially there are often numerous ways for you to dispose of your enemies.

While Dark Messiah seems similar at first to The Elder Scrolls: Oblivion in terms of first person melee combat, you'll soon find that the combat system in Dark Messiah is far more varied and challenging. A variety of moves and combat tactics are available throughout, from kicking enemies into fires and spiked walls, to slicing a rope to unleash a torrent of barrels from a platform above, to straight out sword fighting with a variety of foes ranging from human guards to spiders, and many far larger things. In addition to melee combat, an RPG style skills system is also available. Players gain skill points as they progress, which can be spent on a number of skill trees, combat, magic and miscellaneous. Unlike many RPG titles, you are not restricted to just one skill focus; you can opt to place points in any of the skills available. Playing as a stealthy sword wielding battle mage for example is a lot more interesting than sticking to just one of the skill paths available and using say melee weapons exclusively.Dark Messiah is a solid title, there is a lengthy single player campaign that will last you 12-15 hours easily, as well as a multiplayer mode which offers some unique elements and will keep you entertained for a long time. The melee combat in particular in the game is well implemented and is a very welcome change from the almost exclusive use of guns in most first person titles. The use of special moves and different attacks is also a welcome change from the button-bashing melee of Oblivion. Fans of first person shooters should find this game fun and challenging, and although not strictly an RPG, fans of the genre should also find enough here to keep them entertained. Recommended.

Official site & demo: Click Here. Comments (7)

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