Reviewed
12.03.2002
Publisher
Interplay
Developer
Snow
Blind Studios
Format
1x
DVD
Origin
Import
/ Domestic
Available
Nov.,
2002 (USA)
Exclusive
No
Difficulty
Adjustable
Dimensions
3D
View
Top-down
3rd Person
Genre
Action
/ RPG
Player(s)
1-2
Options
Backup
Vibration
Requires
n/a
Importable
n/a |
| Intro |
|
> Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance is set in the port town of
Baldur's Gate, within the Dungeons & Dragons
realm. A new thieves' guild (a dark alliance) has initiated a war
beneath the city streets. Your job is to seek treasure, complete
quests, discover the root of this evil, and save Baldur's Gate!
To that end, you'll explore three regions, complete with multi level labyrinths. |
| Graphics |
|
> Lush backgrounds, detailed NPC's, demonic enemies, and special effects
abound. I'm not a fan of the top-down view, but its functional nonetheless.
I can also appreciate the women being so well endowed. Heh...
You're sure to enjoy the real-time cut-scenes, which develop the storyline
and provide hints. Be prepared for impressive and unique bosses that
are deadly (in a fair way). Overall, top notch. |
| Control |
|
> Basically, you move, jump, attack, cast magic and parry, although the
latter is quite impractical, considering how often you get surrounded.
There's a point system for upgrading abilities, feats, and spells.
One thing I really appreciate is the level-up bar, which is great instant
feedback for your progress. I like the way you regain HP and MP naturally
as well. About the only thing that is off target would be the accuracy
of multiple, quick jumps, which are needed for some of the platforming.
Other than that, I have no complaints here. |
| Sound |
|
> Dark Alliance's music is mood setting and perfect.
The sound effects are well done, with no annoyances. Voice acting
is excellent and the story is interesting enough. Top notch. |
| Fun |
|
> Dark Alliance takes you through three (long enough) chapters
and a plethora of locales. Thank God you don't have to spend too
much time searching through cities. Choose from three character classes
(Arcane Archer, Dwarven Fighter and Elven Sorceress), each with distinctive
powers, appearances and abilities that develop throughout the game.
It will suffice to say the gameplay and story will keep you playing to
the end. |
| Bottom
Line |
|
> If you want an RPG that's easy to get into and addicting as it gets,
then look no further than Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance.
Great graphics, varied enemies, lots of class-unique weapons, and plenty
of RPG elements to keep you interested. The length of the game is
perfect as well, while leaving you hungry for a sequel. |
| Ratings |
| Overall:
9.1 | Graphics: 9.0 | Control: 8.5 | Sound: 9.5 | Fun: 9.5 |
~
Shinobi ~
|
