Two Worlds

"A spirtual sequel to Morrowind. Short, sweet and to the point!"

First I would like to clear up the comparisons many are making between 2 worlds & oblivion. In that there are none! 2 Worlds is far closer to morrowind than oblivion. Oblivion is a dumbed down hand holding mainstreamed action game, that sadly has ushered in new uninformed fans who hold it as the standard. 2 worlds is more of a traditional RPG. Another reason this game is getting a thrashing from fans is mainly because its online component is absolutely crap.

Graphics-8. Its really a mixed bag. If you are expecting GOW or even oblivion style graphics then look elsewhere. Thats not say that the graphics are garbage, because they are not its just a few things could have used a little more tweaking/polishing.

Sound-7. Standing in a forest will make you think it truly is alive, lots of ambient noises through out the games different terrains. Dungeons and caves also carry their own set of ambient noises. Sometimes the effects of footsteps can get a little carried away and the music is better left off.

Story-6. Your usual run of the mill RPG cliche story, some will like others will not. Its all a matter of taste. I really like the story, but some will find it to have a "been there done that" feeling to it.

Gameplay-8. Regardless of what others try to CLAIM about what boast the developers made about this game it is nothing like oblivion( and thats not a bad thing ). To be honest you may find it more comfortable to play it in 3rd person such as I have which is why I gave it a high number. The combat animations are really enjoyable to watch, better than just two types of animations. You are set loose on this enormous world to do as you will. But be clear, you cannot wipe the floor with everything at low levels( unlike some other game ), you may even find your ass being handed to you by 1 bear or a measly bandit. In short at low levels if you venture into a high level place you will die horribly. Building up skill in this game actually means something and will pay off in the end. There are hundreds of side quest for your character to get into. You want to be a thief, be one. Want to be a treasure hunter( exploring in 2 worlds actually has a point ), with the amount of armors and weapons you will find in 2 worlds it might take a life time to collect them all. Want to be an alchemist, then you will be using one of the simplest yet funnest alchemy set ups in any RPG. The point is, is that you can play this game however you want.

In the end 2 worlds has its share of problems but nothing that makes it unplayable. If you are into big lengthy games than 2 worlds is for you. Be warned though this is no hand holding RPG thats been dumbed down to give you instant gratification. It requires time! If nice shiny flashy games are your thing then look elsewhere.


Buy or rent?
For me, I felt the game was as close to morrowind as you can get in next gen, so it was a buy. But my opinion means little, at least rent the game and give it a few hours. Then you will be better prepared to make a decision.

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 08/31/07

Game Release: Two Worlds (US, 08/23/07)