For those of you that aren’t familiar, the previous Avernum: Escape From the Pit, and this sequel are renovated updates of the eponymous flagship dual trilogy from Spiderweb Software. They use an isometric point of view and allow for complete control via the cursor, though keyboard shortcuts are included. These new releases feature improved graphics, new content, polished game mechanics, streamlined game play, and a completely revamped interface. While the story arc parallels the originals, and long-time users will experience nostalgia in uncovering familiar areas, the new encounters add depth and flavor such that it is a new and refreshing experience.
With that glowing general endorsementout (I swear I’m not getting any kickbacks :p) out of the way, here are a few specifics:
New players should find the gameplay easy to pick up, and the storyline engaging from the start. The graphics aren’t flashy or a strong point of the game, but it is still enjoyable and complemented by the stylized art.
Returning players will be pleased to know that Spiderweb took suggestions from the forums to heart and have made different the character growth choices viable. Example: shields now give higher bonuses to parry as their quality increases (e.g. 10% parry on a bronze shield to 12% on an iron shield). It’s nice to not feel pigeon-holed into only a few character builds on higher difficulties. For those familiar with the original series, slith and nephilim are once again playable, and are (thankfully) without the experience penalty. Humans now receive a bonus trait selection every 4 levels, while slith and nephilim characters receive flat % bonuses to their weapon specialities and element resistances (polearms+fire and missiles+cold respectively).
Overall I’m very happy with the game as a standalone, and the fact that Spiderweb is continually improving the gameplay (actually just noticed that they updated some of the mechanics in Avernum: EFTP) is icing on the cake.