Risen (PC) Review - PAGE 2

From the start, the experience is captivating, and grows much moreso as you play through.

The graphics, simply put, are absolutely gorgeous, particularly with maxed settings on a 23'' display. Somehow, PB have managed to create a feel that is simultaneously "warm" as well as "gritty" like many dungeon crawlers of old, pulling it off flawlessly.

It's not just the technical presentation, though, it's what's presented. Running through forests, fields, rivers, exploring ruins populated by undead skeleton warriors, exploring harbour-side towns -- it's a highly immersive experience in that you're thrilled to be apart of this world.

While in many other titles music takes a backseat to the gameplay and graphics, this is far from the case in Risen. Both the music -- which is playing almost constantly, but subtly -- and the superb voice acting are an integral part of the show.

All combined you have a very engrossing atmosphere; this side of the game's appeal was laid down from the beginning with PB's "mood clips" (see below).

Of course, all this atmosphere with weak gameplay would bring the whole experience tumbling down, but Risen delivers in spades. Some game designers have described the quality of addictiveness in an RPG as highly elusive; take it from us, this one has it and plenty to spare. When not engaged directly in the story, you'll be spending your time completing heaps of quests, looting everything (you've never seen an RPG like this with so much junk to steal), taking down enemies (like those thieving gnomes -- they jump up and down before attacking you, it's adorable), cooking, mining, making your own weapons, magical rings, or potions, or just running around in fields admiring the sky (it's that lovely).

Combat can be harsh, unforgiving, but equally realistic and satisfying. Combined with the hectic music, the designers have managed to build something very tense and exciting, requiring your close attention and strategic thought -- surely one of the game's highlights.

While many of the quest locations are pointed out for you, there are many areas blocked by powerful enemies or a magic barrier you cannot yet break; you'll also encounter chests which may be above your level of lockpicking. Pen and paper RPG fans will feel at home in situations like these, as it could prove useful to break out a writing pad and get to sketching.

Some gamers have noted the control scheme in the Gothic games (particularly the first) is rather cumbersome. While many disagree, Risen is nevertheless very accessible, likening its scheme with the majority of other RPGs today, and that's no bad thing. This is about the only mechanic changed; longtime fans will be happy to know all the quirks and features --  like gutting animals, intuitive lockpicking, sleeping in other people's beds (if they don't catch you), an initially very hard difficulty, and a good blend of serious and very funny dialogue -- remain.

Risen is also about the little touches. For instance, after taking a nap in a hut located in the plains, you'll wake up the next morning to a stunning sunrise. Wandering about, you'll notice a flock of birds far in the distance flying over a mountain range. It's breathtaking. Upon completing quests, characters will set off in the world to do what suits them. After rescuing an ogre from a prison, for example, he can afterwards be seen by the riverside near the prison's exit, taking in the scenery. Speaking to him will provoke a "I hope you're well, friend."