I wasn't all that sure about the real-time combat, but I tried Lands of Lore because of its lovely art and ended up having a grand time with the gameplay. Now let's see if I can get out of this swamp somehow...
holds up really well today, the creature-creating mechanics are fun and i really approach the approach to exploration here. and of course it's a fascinating world that it's building
this game clearly aims to act as a spiritual successor to wizardry 7 and that it does very charmingly. it has that deep, crunchy combat that I really appreciate in the series, and very refreshing exploration. I'm personally finding it difficult as nuts, of course, even in novice difficulty. but I guess your mileage may vary. cheers!