The Dark Eye: Drakensang
- More than 40 spells, with over 30 talents and almost 40 special abilities allow a large range of possibilities for character creation.
- Rich story by the authors of the original The Dark Eye books and adventures and based in Germany`s #1 pen & paper RPG system The Dark Eye.
- Huge, detailed medieval 3D world with authentic looks of historic European architecture.
- Versatile, round-based combat system, a talent-based dialogue system and individual party skill development.
- 2-4 multiplayer support.
Make friends – because your enemies will be numerous indeed! In a world where darkness lurks, evil forces are at work in the city of Ferdok. Summoned by a letter from an old friend you suddenly find yourself bound to investigate a series of strange ritual murders. But getting to the bottom of this only means scratching on the surface of a much bigger, even more sinister plan... Only if you gather trusty companions will you have a chance against a huge conspiracy threatening to change the world of Aventuria forever! Behind closed doors sinister figures are pursuing their dark schemes, spreading fear and terror among city’s population. As the adventurers begin to investigate the series of murders they are constantly confronted with new questions and mysteries. What is the connection between the murders and the proclamation and what role does a mysterious arch-magician play in the story? Aventuria is waiting for you to uncover the ancient mysteries!
great bargain 5 out of 5
Drakensang is what I would call a "true" RPG. Most games described as RPG's are really a combination RPG/action as they require key skills for combat. Combat is still hectic though as you have 4 characters to control by designating special combat techniques, magic and potions. I think about 8 was the most enemies I had to confront at one time. If you think that is too easy try it without pausing.
The graphics are beautiful (as are the female characters) and the game runs very smoothly.
Quests are varied in content and length. One of the secondary quests was almost as long as the main quest. Some humor is mixed in.
The game is not a "go anywhere, do anything" game but the areas to explore are large enough that it never has a linear feel to it.
The system used for raising attributes and skill levels is very nicely done. I love that you can use experience points whenever you want. In other games you have to make a decision as soon as you gain a new level.
I think I was most impressed by the economics. Most games are what in D&D used to be called "Monty Hauls". Treasure and equipment are so easy to obtain that they don't seem like much of an accomplishment when you get them. In Morrowind (which was still a great game) it seemed like every two-bit bandit had an enchanted weapon. In Drakensang you grab everything you find (like rusty nails and fluff) because money is so tight. The special weapons are one of a kind so you really appreciate them when you get one. I think I was about 3/4 through the game before the treasures got bigger.
I think this is a great game. (and a great bargain at under $10) If you like RPG's give it a try. I wish the developers would use the same system and make more games. I'm still looking for a good RPG western.
Great game that went under the rader 5 out of 5
Drakensang is a game any role player will love. The graphics are good, and the story is interesting and keeps you playing. Interaction between your allies is a fun aspect, and I really found it enjoyable to change them out on almost every quest, just to keep things interesting. The skill system is nice, and there are a lot of abilities to choose from, giving you the option to have a unique char regardless of which base class you choose. Any fan of role playing games will love this one. I hope they make a second one to follow up on the rich histroy and background they created in this game.
Stuck 3 out of 5
I can't get out of the first town. It keeps kicking me back. So I can't give an honest review. But what I have seen has been fun.
Good but not great! 3 out of 5
This review is for the 3 or 4 people who have not purchased the game but are still considering it. Some free advice: 1) Download the demo and try that first. Also download the manual and the walkthrough. The first chapter of the game walkthrough is also the demo. 2) Wait until the price gets down to about $10 or $15 before buying.
Disclosure: I've only played the demo, so my comments are limited to that experience only.
I like this kind of game. The Dark Eye is fun to play and keeps your attention. The graphics are good but for me it's the game-play that matters, not the pictures or the voice acting, etc. Read the other reviews for what's good in this game; there's a lot to like.
What I didn't like in the demo was beginning with little or no idea of what I was to do, how to do it, where to go, etc, etc. (That's why you should get the manual and the walkthrough.) More bad news: you can't create your own character. There are several pre-made models to choose from but, alas, you can do very little to tweak them. In-game, the tutorial pop-up's were somewhat helpful as were the info blurbs that appeared when you right-clicked some items.
The controls are NOT intuitive. Well, not for me anyway. And as others have noted, camera control is not the best. I'd describe it as awkward and sometimes unresponsive. In tight quarters, e.g. next to a structure or in a cave, etc., it's downright frustrating.
This is not a game with any strategy at all; it's entirely linear. There are (or can be) tactics in battles, but game play is strictly "follow the dotted line and connect the dots." Once you've finished an area, there's no going back. I guess that's OK, but don't leave anything behind! Replay value is going to be zero. If you do play again, all you can change is the main character.
Reminds me of Oblivion 5 out of 5
Very similar to playing Oblivion, except party of characters instead of single character. Many of the previous posts give great overall functions of game.
Uses Securom copy protection, so you need disk to play, However after several attempts, got it to work with Game Jackal on XP64 bit.
Long playtime - meaning it takes a while to play through so great value for price.
