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 Anachronox
Ion Storm
Eidos Interactive
RPG
PC
For years consoles have dominated the RPG genre. Windows based
platforms have only been lucky enough to have second rate ports of
good hits on the PSX or quasi-decent original titles like Septerra
Core. With SquareSoft dominating the world of Console RPGs and
not making any original titles for the PC, where are RPG craving
PC gamers to go? BioWare has done wonders with their AD&D
titles Baldur's Gate, Icewind Dale & Planescape:
Torment. Blizzard has also fared well with Diablo. But
where's the sheer story and gameplay that lands right between the
hardcore Baldur's Gate and the softer Diablo? Enter Anachronox,
a console style RPG set in an alternate universe.
 The
story starts off rather simple, you play the role of Sly Boots, a
private investigator on the mysterious morphing city of a planet,
Anachronox. However, you are not doing well. Your office is the
storage shed of a bar and ever since the death of your secretary
and the disappearance of your partner, there has been no business
and you're downright depressed. As Boots struggles to get to his
feet, there are scores of characters that will join your party and
NPCs that come into play on a frequent basis. Getting out of debt,
back on your feet and saving the universe is something that
doesn't come quickly, but with nothing better to do, Boots takes
the case.
The graphics of Anachronox are very good considering what
makes it tick. The system is a beefy Quake II engine.
Considering that this game has been in the works since 1997, the QII
engine was the best choice at the time. Graphically the
environments are vast and pretty and are sure to give any gamer
some decent eye candy. CG cut-scenes are carried out using the
game engine as well ensuring smooth transitions from game play to
movie sequences.
 Gameplay
is also equally good. The environments are totally interactive
from signs and people, to arcade games located in lounges.
Although battles are fairly rare, the combat system is simple and
shines. Each character has unique battle skills and different
compatabilities with the various forms of magic. And, just like
every other good RPG, there are lots of side quests to keep you
busy while you try to figure out what exactly is going on.
In its entirety, the game shines as something that proves the hard
work put into it. Everything about it is solid, but I stick firmly
to the fact that there needs to be more enemy encounters.
Final Verdict: 8/10
Anachronox
PlanetAnachronox |
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