For a long time, I didn't think much of computer games. I don't know why, but they had just always failed to capture my interest. That is, until I discovered Mount & Blade Warband. After some friends happened to show it to me a few weeks ago, I was immediately captivated by it and have remained so ever since. The combat, definitely the game's selling point, is exhilarating and highly kinetic. While the learning curve is steep, the challenge of it makes each hard-earned kill all the more rewarding. Sound effects have real oomph, be it the fleshy thwack of your blade slicing through your enemy's mail coat, the clang of steel on steel, or the clip-clop of your galloping charger's hooves. The single-player battling and kingdom-building are complex and engaging enough to hold your attention for many hours. Within the (very wide) confines of the game's mechanics, you can do whatever you want and be whoever you want. There isn't much of a plot, and most characters are paper-thin, but I still find the whole package thoroughly enjoyable. I must admit I haven't really tried my hand at the multiplayer component yet, partly because my (brief) initial experiences there were of being repeatedly trounced – newcomers be warned! The game does a good job visually. Equipment, clothing, and horses are all well designed. The settings, though a bit repetitive, are believable. Helmets and swords glisten appropriately in the sun as you ride into battle. Ultimately, it's the little things that make the game for me, such as the streaks of blood that appear when you are wounded in a fight, the extensive options for customising your appearance, and the lovely pencil/charcoal drawings on menus and loading screens, to name just a few. Such details show that the developers really care. In short, I can't recommend this game highly enough. It is the most fun I've had in a long time, with any activity. Money well spent, to be sure. Just prepare to be robbed of many (blissful) hours of your life.
