Dark Messiah of Might and Magic: Elements

"Is this really Might & Magic?!"

I'd like to start this review by saying I have always been a huge fan of Might and Magic games, but also first-person shooters (not a shooter in this case) and RPG's. This is my first review.. I never thought it would be a negative review about a M&M game. I was excited to try this game once I heard about it's release. Even though Ubisoft doesn't even compare to what 3DO had accomplished with the series, I figured it would be somewhat decent. The title of the game may be amazing, but its a trap. I tried really hard to like it, but it's just not that much fun compared to a lot of other games of its kind. Almost feels a bit rushed to me. This game is lacking in a lot of ways, it almost feels like I'm forcing myself to play it....


Pros- The combat is decent. The ability to use the environment to your advantage can add some interest. Despite the graphics, some of the environments are well done. Secrets and relics add to the experience. Did I miss anything?

Cons- Lacks any solid character customization. Each class has very limited usage of items, making 90% of your inventory useless. Enemies could use more creativity... seeing "Black Guards" can get boring after a while. The storyline is very cliche and boring. The voice acting is horrible. Landing a jump from 5 feet off the ground can kill you. The graphics... for a minute I looked at the game box to check if I accidentally bought it N64. Online play could be much better. Gaining a level doesn't really give you that same "WHOO-HOO" feeling you get with many other games... the skills you earn are somewhat lame.

Now don't get too brought down. As I've said before, I'm a huge fan of the old M&M games, which are much different than this game. I tried my best to disregard my love for those games in this review, but it might be better to you if you've never played the other games in the series. I just feel this game could have been much better for a M&M game. Well, everything dies eventually. If you want a great first-person RPG, play either Oblivion or Fallout 3. If these 3 three games were a plate of food, Oblivion and Fallout 3 would be the bratwurst and M&M would be the sauerkraut.

Reviewer's Score: 5/10, Originally Posted: 03/16/09

Game Release: Dark Messiah of Might and Magic: Elements (US, 02/12/08)