A fan of SSi's Gold Box games, I have always been wary of venturing far from their solid style of gaming. Lands of Lore, is a great departure from the same formula, that SSI established and many RPG’s set in the forgotten realms kingdom followed. While the old gold box games put their whole priority on the game system, they often failed to focus on the adventure or the graphics. (Partly due to the computers of the time.) Lands of Lore does not.
From the moment you are first sent out to stop the evil Sorceress Scotia, the depth put into the adventure will engross the player. Unlike the tired plodding found in many earlier RPG’s, Lands of Lore will make you want to find out what is next. Seldom does it feel like you are just "going through the motions" to get to the next stage of the game. I found myself excited to just discover what new monster would lay in store for me, let alone what treasures, NPC’s, and new revelations from the storyline lay ahead.
Unlike many RPG’s, you make up the party. There are not 4,5,6 or more members to fall back on. It is all up to you! Based on your
play style, one can choose to play a Hulking behemoth of a warrior, or a scantily clad sorcerer. (4 Character Styles to choose from.) While this can be a bit difficult to adapt to for players used to the party system, it really helps speed up and create engaging combat experiences. One is forced to think quick and adapt to their character's play style to survive.
Great graphics, great game system, and a very compelling storyline make this a perfect pick for RPG enthusiasts. Set in First Person View, like Wizardry and Eye of the Beholder, Lands of Lore puts a high priority on making the game as visually appealing as is it mentally appealing. NPC’s, Monsters, and the backgrounds are all visually superb. Spell animations as well, really add a welcome kick to the old "Hack and Slash" aspect of RPG’s.
Anyone who has ever played an RPG will be satisfied with this great game. Even those who are new to the genre will find the game mechanics simple enough to grasp quickly. Both the experienced and new player will find the graphics and storyline a welcome site.
A "Must Have" for any classic RPG addict, and a great doorway into RPG’S for the beginner.
