Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance

"Copy of Diablo? Nah... Almost as good though!"

Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance, designed by Snowblind studios, brings very few new things to the Action/RPG genre. However, this does not bring the games fun factor down any. If you like this genre, I would definitely consider buying the game.

Graphics: 8/10

Dark Alliance brings high quality graphics to the Xbox RPG genre. The style is clearly a mix of Blizzard Studios and a hint of originality. All objects are clear, considering the slightly large environmental factors, and the characters are near first class quality. The first thing you notice is the amount of detail that went into everything. The faces are a little cubed, but they have most other portions of the body looking good!

Sound: 9/10

How do you say... wonderful!? This game mixes good sound effects with the excellent voice-overs of most Baldur's Gate series. Sound is crystal clear, and will give even hardcore sound junkies something to enjoy.

Story: 8/10

The story line is superior to that of Diablo, and in leagues with other Baldur's Gate games. You will not be disappointed with this portion of the game. It holds your attention, although it is not something you would miss sleep over.

Game Play: 10/10

Game play is one of the best things about this game. The fighting is more like Diablo than a typical Action/RPG, but the game incorporates far more than the Diablo series. The game seems to be very short, but the replay value is fairly high. Camera angles are very good, with adjustable angles. Thrashing and killing, how much more could you ask for? Well, a good trade system, excellent stat upgrades, and great dialogue keeps you attached to this style of game play.

Replay Value: 9/10

You have the option of three characters, which will keep you playing until you beat all three difficulties with each of them! The lack of cheats make the game a bit lacking for the cheating community, however, the game in itself will keep you coming back for more.

Overall: 9/10

This game will keep you coming back for more, and amaze you with its game play value. I would suggest spending the 20-30 dollars (it's a classic now, so it's worth it). The graphics are amazing, and the replay value alone will keep you occupied for the entirety of its value. I recently picked up a copy from a local retail store for $20, and the person I bought it for has become addicted. I will definitely purchase future titles from this company!

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 05/19/03, Updated 05/19/03