Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance

"Much needed action RPG for Xbox!"

With the current lack of RPG type games for the Xbox, Baldurs Gate: Dark Alliance is a much needed addition to the xbox lineup. Admittedly, I haven't played the PC versions of Baldurs Gate, but from what I read it is not really necessary for the enjoyment of this game. While the PC versions were more RPG, this game is more action oriented. It is somewhat in the style of Gauntlet and Hutner: The Reckoning, with a 3/4 overhead 3rd person perspective.

You get to choose between one of three characters to play: A male archer, a female sorceress, and a male dwarf fighter. You start of as a newcomer in the town of Baldurs Gate, and initially are robbed. In search of the men that robbed you, you find your way to a tavern known as the Elf's Song and from there your adventure begins.

Graphics The graphics for the game are superb. Even though it is a PS2 port, it seems they have really used the xbox capabilities. All the environments are highly detailed, and it boasts some impressive water. When you enemies are slain, they don't disappear like in most games. They will remain where they fell even if you come back much later. Although your characters are fairly small on the screen, they are highly detailed and will change appearance as you equip them with different items. You can even have them going around in their undergarments if you so choose!

Sound The soundtrack to the game is solid and well orchestrated. The sound effects sound fantastic especially if you are able to use the 5.1 surround sound.

Gameplay This is where it's at. Fortunately, for Baldur's Gate, the gameplay is superb and makes for a fun and addictive experience. The thing that makes it most addicting is the way your character levels up, the way you collect money to buy better weapons and armor, etc. While you are playing it is hard to put the controller down because you want to make it just a little further to get that next sword or armor! Also, the fighting is intense so it never gets boring, but your character levels at the right pace so it is constantly difficult but not impossible. There are save points at various locations throughout the game. Also, you can use a character from a one saved game and import them into another. And, there is a two player co-op mode that makes the game even more fun. The only downfall I find with the game so far is that it is limited to 2 player co-op, when I wish they would have made it up to 4 player.

Controls The controls are easy to learn and can be picked up within a short period of time. Each controller button is customizable, which is nice for making the controls match your liking.

Value I have read there is about 18 to 20 hours of gameplay. That, to me, usually translates to actually 25-35 hours of play for me, since I don't just like to run through as fast as I can. Plus, there is an unlockable level once you beat the main 3 chapters, then an unlockable mode and character. Seems like this game could keep me busy for some time.

Overall So far with about 6 hours in, I am really enjoying this game. I can't find any major flaws except that I wish that it had 4 player co-op capability. Other than that, those enjoying games like Gauntlet and Hunter: The Reckoning but wanting something a little deeper might want to pick this one up. I give it 9/10

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 11/01/02, Updated 11/01/02