Darklands is a great sandbox RPG set in Medieval Germany. When I use the word "set", I don't mean it's a typical fantasy RPG with good window dressings. From top to bottom, the game is based on historical information or on the sort of things people believed in at the time. A good example is "Magic", which consists of a pious member of your party invoking the name of a Saint to perform a miracle, like boosting a stat. Other examples include the enemies, who are mostly humans but mixed in with wild animals and the sort of supernatural beasts thought to exist at the time, including demons. Yes, defeating Old Scratch is a prominent part of the main plot. Which is completely optional. That alone is a great reason to play. Other reviews can touch on the best parts of the gameplay but I do want to add that I've taken off a star for this area. While the combat itself is pretty good, I thought it was a little lacking in depth. Understandable, given the game's age. I also found the interface clumsy, both considered on its own and compared to later games.
Arx Fatalis has lots going for it. The RPG elements are great. Might, magic, and stealth are all potent options. The world is pretty well crafted. The fighting is fun. However, Arx Fatalis falls short of true greatness. The magical system is innovative and cool but a little clumsy. Voice acting is uneven and the story is good but only just. It's not open ended. However, for the price it's a steal. Old-school RPGs don't come along often these days so if you need a fix, Arx Fatalis is a great addition to your collection.
