Diablo

"Well -- that's it. I would write more but I have a Level 29 Warrior I have to perfect.."

Gameplay -- Well; firstly I have to say that this is my personal favorite Action/RPG. I rented it for PSX, and although I played it for a long time, it takes a little while for you to get into this game. After purchasing it for PC I couldn't stop playing.

The bulk of this game is composed of working your way through dungeons full of goblins, skeletons, zombies, etc.. But there is a bit of strategy involved. [Mostly the use of magic resistances and character customization.]

There are three character classes; the rogue, warrior, and sorcerer -- all with their certain strengths and weaknesses.

The usual view is on a 3/4 scale but you can zoom in if you choose to. [I found it harder to function well when zooming in..]

Story -- Well here's where some people may be dissapointed. Your task is simple; destroy Diablo [The "Lord of Terror"] and anything in your way. The booklet that comes with the game gives a lot of background detail, but it's almost like reading a textbook.. Quite dull at most points. While not horrid -- I think the story is where this game lacks the most.

Graphics -- Pretty basic stuff for the most part here. While in the labyrinth, if you take the time to look, to see many more details. [Torches, crucified bodies, blood, etc..] Most of the enemies look great and have different color schemes, and the weapon/armor/helmet/shield your character has equipped usually changes somewhat, which is a nice touch.

Replay Value -- Wow, now here's where I could ramble on for hours. Firstly; it's enough that the dungeons are randomly generated and there is at least 200+ items/enemies to kill or acquire in this game. I've stayed up many, many nights slashing through the armies of undead creatures. The Hellfire expansion _really_ adds a lot of depth to the game [new items, enemies, quests, levels, etc..]. If you get bored of Diablo; buy the [$15] Hellfire expansion pack and that should hold you over until Diablo 2 comes out.

Multiplayer -- Well, not much I can say here. I've never been into multiplayer games on the internet; but I hear Diablo's is very fun if you can somehow escape all the cheaters who enhance their characters..

[I think that anyone who has about $20 laying around should pick this game up. You _won't_ be let down!]

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 01/22/00, Updated 01/22/00