Enclave

"A very decent game that lives past its initial expectations."

I have to tell you, when I first picked this game up, I didn't expect a lot. I am into the sort of swords and sorcery style games, such as Morrowind, and thought this game would just be a casual unimportant game to me. I was wrong. This game really lives up and beyond what one might expect from it.

Graphics: 7/10
The graphics aren't the most amazing things to ever come your way. One would expect much more from the Xbox video game system. But since when to graphics make a good game, eh? The characters (there are 12 playable ones in all) are modeled well, each with different models for the different levels of armor you can purchase within the game. The movement of the monsters can be a bit choppy which is part of this area's loss of points. Also, hit detection is not as good as it could be. But the action stays fast and frantic as you battle through the extremely well-made worlds.

Gameplay: 9/10
The gameplay has a lot to offer in this particular title. The battle is frantic and not as slow as that of Morrowind, but, again, the movement of the enemy monsters can be choppy. Also, for most of the monsters, their movement is predictable. Far enough away, they will withdraw a bow / crossbow. Close range, they will use a weapon and merely charge at you. Exploring the worlds is enjoyable as the levels are rather large and well made. Plus you must search out many hidden items in each level which adds to replay value.

Story: 8/10
This game has a somewhat original storyline, but it is really nothing impressively conceptual or new. The world was divided long ago in a war. The divide is called the Enclave (the namesake of the game). The worlds on either side of the Enclave are quite different. On one side you have peace-loving races and on the other you have chaotic monsters. Your goal, depending which side you take (light or dark), is to either save the world from complete destruction, or aid the destruction. (NOTE: You must complete the game on the Light campaign before attempting the Dark campaign)

Controls: 8/10
Controls are decent, they handle similarly to Morrowind. The right trigger attacks with whatever weapon your character has attached. Also, you can use your shield (if equipped with one) or potions. Your character always carries a melee and a ranged weapon which you can change back and forth from at any time. The movement is good, but there are a few annoying jumps that must be made in this game. An added detraction from this game is that if you die in a stage, you must restart the whole thing. This means collecting all the treasure again and defeating every enemy again.

Sound: 9/10
All the grunts and clanks you would love to hear from a medieval adventure game, plus excellent voice acting during cinematic scenes is an added bonus.

Overall: 8/10
I would highly recommend buying this game. It offers a very good blend of action and adventure, and is merely hindered by minor problems with graphics and framerate. It is a truly fun game for adventure and medieval fans alike.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 02/27/03, Updated 02/27/03