Posted on: September 21, 2019
Jason_the_Iguana
Games: Reviews: 5
Great concept. Good enough execution
It's an old Spiderweb game. Clunky UI, schematic graphics, simple but reasonably interesting turn-based combat. If you've played other Spiderweb games, you know the formula. If not: you create a party of 4+ characters and explore an overland world map covered in big dungeons and lots of secrets. There's an interesting story, but you won't find much in the way of memorable characters or snappy dialogue. Most of your time is spent bashing goblins. So why four stars? Mostly because it does a number quite interesting things. Interesting Premise: A Roman expeditionary force in the days of Claudius' invasion of Britain finds its way to the land of the Fae. There, Roman rationalism meets Celtic mysticism in a struggle that may decide the fate of the Roman empire itself. The writing makes a credible effort in setting the scene and make it feel like you are in ancient Britain. And funnily enough... history does not contradict the story of this game, whatever outcome occurs. Two games for the price of one: You can play as Romans or as Celts, and have an almost completely different (if parallel) story. You start in a different place, fight different foes, have different abilities and playstyle. Allies in one story are enemies in the next. But you still have choices to make and can influence the outcome whichever side you choose. Charm. None of the above would be enough to overcome its flaws if Nethergate did not work as a game. Fortunately, the game works better than it should based on my desccriptoin. The combat is fun enough, the choices are interesting enough, and there is just a lot to see and do. And though the art is primitive, it does have some very amusing drawings for all the ablities. In summary: I recommend this game to people who are intruiged by the idea and the setting, and to people who like old-school clunky RPGs. I personally have a soft spot for it. (Disclaimer: I bought this game ages ago on Spiderweb's website, and have not replayed it recently.)
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