Graphics, Music, Sound Effects:

Part of the reason I was attracted to the game was because of the graphics. The other part was the ability to explore the various locations and roam the world shells at will. Some of the locations are beautiful and have also been drawn to detail. The graphics are also very clear and it adds to the enjoyment of exploring the various places. However, after you’ve seen so many dungeons/catacombs/ mazes, you tend to feel tired about having to navigate yet another dungeon/catacomb/maze just to find a certain item or progress in the game. Fortunately, a map has been included in the game to help you find your way around so you wouldn’t waste too much time wandering around. Don’t expect too much of the maps though; They only show you the possible exits and general layouts.

 The music accompanying each scene or location is suitable and does reflect the mood or the situation, but it does not particularly stand out. Perhaps that's because I've been playing this game for some time now. The same goes for sound effects. Occasionally though, the sound is slower than the graphics, for example, a character speaking but the sound comes out only seconds later. Fortunately, you can be assured it doesn't happen often. Movie scenes are also used in the game to move the story along. These movie scenes fit right into the flow of the story and allow you to see the events that happen in between, some of which are really interesting as well.

Conclusion:

So the final conclusion is that the game is unique and definitely worth playing for, in my opinion. It has a great storyline that is pretty much the main draw of the game. Despite some of my earlier negative comments, the game is a lot of fun and I would recommend it for all players who love to play such games. However, due to the linear storyline with no multiple endings and no multiplayer feature, it is unlikely that players will play it more than once. Still, the rich graphics, unique storyline and overall game should leave an impression on the gamer.

Shortcut Keys: (Credited to http://www.angelfire.com/games2/SepterraCore/Walktrough.html, which also contains a walkthrough and some tips/hints)

---> Q - Select Player 1 in Combat

---> A - Select player 2 in combat

---> Z - Select player 3 in combat

---> W - Select skills in combat

---> E - Select fate cards in combat

---> R - Select inventory in combat

---> U - Exit back to real time

---> Shift - Run as long as you hold it down

---> Escape - Exits out of menus/conversations/cut-scenes

---> Spacebar - Enter or exit subscreens

---> X - Enter options screen

---> F5 - Quicksave game

---> F8 - Load the quicksave game

There are other keys available to use as well, but these would be the most useful ones. Besides, the game relies heavily on the use of the mouse, so it is unlikely you'd be using these keys except for shift.

I have more screenshots if you're interested in seeing them.