When I first saw Tales of Maj'Eyal(TOME), I thought WTF!? It looked like an amateur game project. But, I read the many positive reviews, watched some video reviews and it was inexpensive, so I decided to buy and try it. The best way I can describe TOME is that it's a fast paced, turn-based RPG, rogue-like game.
The speed-up mechanics take all of the annoying wait time away. The turns happen simultaneous between your character and the enemies. You don't have to wait for each character's turn to load. Also, you can skip through explored areas instantly. Click on an area on the map, the game will calculate how many turns it would take and you are instantly there. The action on screen can look like an action RPG, but it should still be played like a turn-based one; take time to think about your moves.
The best part of TOME is the content. It's a complex RPG with lots of stats for each character, items and equipment. No consumables, but use reusable items to heal and cure or just speed up the waiting time for your character to recover. There are many class-types to unlock and has two expansions which adds lots of replay value. It has been in development for over 6-years, maybe more, and is still supported by the developer. Visit the website for add-ons and mods by fans. You can create your own add-ons and mods, too. Also you can choose from 3 modes; unlimited, limited and no continues.
The weakest part of TOME is the art style, animation and NPCs. The art style may not be for everyone and doesn't have that professional look. Characters don't animate and look like paper figures. You have brief encounters with NPCs during quests and don't really care about them except to protect them to get stat points and abilities. So, the story unfolds through narrations and poems found in the game.
For the content, gameplay, replay value and lack of bugs and glitches, it is well worth the price that will give you satisfying, addictive game play.
