Yes, it's that good. No, the sequels aren't as good.
This game is perfect. The story is great, the theme is amazing, and there are few bad parts. I always return to this.
This is a game I return to fairly frequently. A real joy. An RPG where the actions you use define your character. You gain levels in 4 different fighting styles, and 4 different magic styles by using them. There are various ways to navigate the dungeons, and lots of ways to experiment to finish sections and quests. The good: * Innovative magic system. Very unique at the time and still is. Very satisfying gaining a level in any spell ability and seeing improved effects * Map system is great * Combat isn't too bad, lots of ways to mix magic with combat * Game looks good with the right DosBox scaler The bad * Inventory management is a pain. Never sure if you'll need something later, so I horde. Do yourself a favor and reroll until you have max strength at startup. * Weapons break. Very, very frequently! Gets annoying fast but you never really are without a weapons so it's not the worst. * Savescumming is kind of required to figure out some puzzles. Don't let that get you down! It is definitely innovative enough to be worth the price - just hold onto those potion bottles if you can - try not to throw too many at folks!
Is it to complete the game? is it to fight? Is it to just get the game over with? If so, this game isn't for you. This is a really, really good game which sometimes takes a beating from those who play games to complete them or to play and quickly move on to the next game. This game should be played day after day, explored, worked out, figured out, and absorbed. It's not to be played with a walk-through in your lap. It is something else.
This really is one of those games. It's been out for 20 years and I can still come back to this at any time and create a fresh character and approach the world in a different way. A classic and worth playing blind, no walk through, just explore. By the time you make it to the make it to the Dwemer Puzzle Box, you'll be hooked. No serious Elder Scrolls player should miss this game. The best in the series, and I'm not kidding.
