Description Combining deep and engrossing game play with riveting first-person graphics, Arx Fatalis follows In the tradition of classics like Ultima Underworld, providing an Immersive environment where the dark, rich story unfolds. With a fully Interactive and detailed environment, every action will have repercussions. Exquisite attention Is paid to the smallest detail in order to provide an Intrigulng game play experience, where fighting and spell casting are implemented In a unique way.
Summary: Arx Fatalis is one of those games that seems to start well but eventually wears on you. It's like hearing a good song and then having to hear it over and over again. First of all, I liked the idea. Your character starts out in a goblin prison underground and must find out what evil has arisen to destroy humanity (and others). At least in the beginning, it's an interesting dungeon crawl, with some decent graphics and very well-done sound effects. However, several hours into the game you'll find yourself backtracking a lot through dungeon levels, wondering aimlessly for clues, stumped by some outrageously hard puzzles, and generally frustrated with the little information the game provides about your quests. It's really a shame, because Arx Fatalis could have really been a great game. However, some poor design decisions by the developers have doomed it to be simply a decent game, if you can force your way to the end.
Summary: Before I go on about everything else, I'd like to say that this game has bugs. Lots of bugs. In fact, I've played Arx Fatalis thrice from the beginning and each time I've had to restart the whole game because I'd be somewhere I'm not supposed to be and get stuck without the needed items for that area, or guards would attack me for successfully stealing something ages ago, etc.
I haven't beaten this game because of these problems. I even have the latest patch installed. But from what I did actually manage to play, the game was fun for the most part. I'd describe this game as a medieval System Shock 2. It's very atmospheric and some one of the parts I journeyed through (Temple of Akbaa under tavern) was a bit freaky. Partly because my character was weak and the sight of a golem made me want to hide in a corner.
As with most of my other reviews, I'm not going to tell you whether you should go out and buy this game or not. I leave you to judge for yourself by reading the review and conclusive rating.
Summary: This game isn't worth the effort or money, avoid unless your love the thief games and need a new game to play, even though this game will annoy you a lot. This is one to avoid.
Rating Reviewed by: Lord John Drinksalot(Unregistered User)
Review Date January 17, 2003
Overall Rating 5 of 5
Visitors rate this review 5.00 of 5,
2 votes
Review NaN of 13
, from Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
Price Paid:
$20.00
from Electronics Boutique
Summary:
GENERAL
You awaken to find yourself in jail with no memory of who you are or why you’re being held. We’ve all been there - although that Goblin guard is a clue we’re not in Kansas anymore…
Arx Fatalis (AF) is a first-person viewpoint, fantasy role-playing game set entirely in the underground city of Arx and in the tunnels and caverns surrounding it. Earlier classic games like Thief and Ultima Underworld are almost certainly inspirations for AF; there are dimly lit hallways and dark corners of rooms for hiding and a maze of tunnels to get lost in.
Your mission in Arx – after you’ve improved the wardrobe and gotten a bite to eat – is to stop the usual suspects from doing what they do best: trying to destroy the world and ruin it for the rest of us. However, as you can tell from your unfortunate incarceration, the world doesn’t recognize you or your role in its story. They call you “Am Shagaar” which means The Nameless One.
Eventually, of course, Am Shagaar’s growing reputation will precede him and you’ll be known as the “Guardian.” Don’t let it get to your head. You’re not really all that tough ever. Even with a spell-book full of spells and an enchanted sword, victory is not a sure thing. And don’t count on that magic shield either or it’ll break your heart.
The story’s the thing in Arx: don’t mess around too much with it. In other words, Arx is a somewhat linear game. What that means is you can break the plot by killing the wrong guy – isn’t that always the way? – thereby upsetting his friends. “You just killed the wrong troll, mister!” So, there it is: you’re not just hanging out in Arx doing your thing and saving the world when you have the time.
Don’t get me wrong, Junior, there is freedom in Arx. (“Freedom in Arx” A possible sequel?) It’s a freedom measured in well-chosen amounts of stealth, magic, and steel. “What does it matter to ya \ When ya got a job to do ya got to do it well\You got to give other fella hell.” Throughout the game, you’re given quests involving stolen sacred items, ancient relics, kidnappings, and investigations. Who cares whether you complete them using an invisibility potion or an arrow from the dark? I don’t and neither should you.
SUMMARY
Although not an innovative game, Arx Fatalis impressed me with its overall feel. I had no problem with the story-driven plot. I welcomed it. There’s a time and a place for open-ended games and a season for more directed action.
I was able to use a little magic, a little “medieval Ghost Recon” stealth, and a little cold steel when I could get away with it. Was it perfect? No. Did I enjoy everything about AF? Again no. Am I glad I played it? Yes!! Arx is much more than the sum of its gameplay, graphics and sound; it is a magical place. (Sorry, I’m getting a little misty.)
Who would I recommend it to? Players who want elements of adventure, role-playing, and action should think about AF. All you zombies - beware!
Summary: A good solid RPG dungeon crawl that falls just a little short of greatness. The story is good and plays out well, but none of the characters are exceptionally memorable.
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