Overall most helpful review

Posted on: January 7, 2015

stutzjon

Games: 378 Reviews: 6

Worthy Upgrade From the 2nd Gen Version

Is this 3rd gen version of Avernum 1 is worth buying and playing over the Avernum 1 2nd gen version which is part of the Avernum 1-6 compilation sold here on GOG.? I definitely think so. IMO, unlike Baldur's Gate Enhanced Edition, the differences between the two Avernum versions is significant enough to warrant an upgrade. The UI is totally overhauled, and the graphics are much more detailed and rich. The game is also huge - took me around 60 hours to beat. Playing most of the side quests can even add more time on, so yes there is great value in the game. I love this game. I think the underground empire for exiles setting is unique and extremely interesting to me. Unlike a lot of other generic fantasy settings, I found myself identifying with the characters and thinking a lot about what I would do in their situation. The world is SO interactive and vast - lots of NPCs, Quests, side stories, choices to be made. In fact there are numerous endings based on important choices you make in the game that really define who you're characters are in the world. Big thumbs up from me.

Is this helpful to you?

Posted on: January 8, 2015

CoolCows_ski

Verified owner

Games: 1334 Reviews: 3

I think I'll stay a while

Escape from the Pit was the first Spiderweb Software game I’ve played despite being a remake of a remake, and never having heard of the company before. Something has to be said about a team that devotes their livelihood to developing low-budget, text heavy games with minimal graphics and primitive sound effects, yet succeeds at it superbly. Escape from the Pit has two major elements going for it: addictive and strategic turn-based combat, and well-written, engaging writing that saturates the experience. In fact, most of the details of the game from the environment to the descriptions of the monsters you are confronted with will be delivered primarily through the writing, complimented by the serviceable graphics. Character creation and progression is very satisfying with a fairly large list of skills and traits to select from, including everything from mastery of swords, pikes and bows to mage and priest magic. There are also class-neutral skills to choose from including lock-picking, first aid and cave-lore that can further diversify particular members, or the party as a whole. The game world is Very large, with dozens of towns and dungeons to explore, but also rewards you for exploring all the nooks and crannies of the overworld and pushing every last wall switch you can find. Additionally, the strongest level of certain spells can generally only be obtained by delving deep with a labyrinth, and tackling tougher-than-normal monsters. For all of its successes, there are a few blemishes that are noteworthy. There are several well-intentioned traits that are best avoided altogether as their benefits are negligible. Also, Dual-wielding characters also tend to be favored mid-to-late game over other melee or ranged options. Overall, Escape from the Pit had opened the doors for me to the world of Spiderweb Software and their plentiful RPG selection. Avernum 2: The Crystal Souls is undoubtedly my most anticipated game.

Is this helpful to you?

Posted on: January 7, 2015

fool1977

Games: 198 Reviews: 17

Challenging RPG

These games are fun. and scratch the RPG itch. The setting and story line are interesting, the game play is plenty challenging, and the mechanics/rules are just right in terms of complexity. The map is quite large too so you're going to have plenty of places to explore in a non-linear fashion. The graphics are minimal, but for a game like this it's not necessary to have great modern graphics. This game isn't about 1st person immersion, or pretty 2D environments like Baldur's Gate. It's a game reminiscent of the table top experience where your imagination can fill in the gaps. I'd recommend this for anyone of any age who tends who likes challenging indie RPGs that are obviously a labor of love for the developer.

Is this helpful to you?

Posted on: January 8, 2015

JCDenton32

Verified owner

Games: 270 Reviews: 19

Old School with a friendly interface

If you haven't met Spiderweb Software, this is a great introduction. This venerable series of old school games is now on it's third remake, and does not disappoint. You will find hours and hours of game play here for a very reasonable price. There is plenty to explore, battle, laugh about, feel challenged by, and ultimately overcome here. It has all the best parts of the old school computer rpg, with a nice smooth ride. Easy inventory management, skill trees, regenerating hit points post-battle help you focus on the world and story of Avernum. This series has a long pedigree of satisfied fans, and I encourage you to experience it for yourself.

Is this helpful to you?

Posted on: January 9, 2015

Bron

Verified owner

Games: Reviews: 25

Feel the love! :)

The leading reviewers have covered it pretty well. I just want to add my respect for the developers and say that, as a long time gamer, this is a game that really gets the fun of RPG's and brings that *fun* back to life. It's not all about hi-res graphics and effects, big names and hype. Early on people developed games because they loved gaming and their personality and love showed through in their work. This is a game like that. Satisfying and fun and one where you can tell the crew put their heart into their work. The whole series is great and this is a fine addition to the collection.

Is this helpful to you?

Discover CD PROJEKT RED games

Highlights

Featured

Close, but not an exact hit

Avernum: Escape From the Pit

Other ratings

Add a review

Edit a review

Delete this review?

Report this review

Additional Details (required):

Report this review