Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance

"An epic masterpiece"

Truthfully, I was never a fan of the Baldur's Gate series, until now. I never really did try the games on the PC or any other console, but I'm sure glad I did try Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance for the GBA.

Gameplay - 9

The gameplay simply swept me off my feet. Never have I seen such complex gameplay brought forth on the GBA. Though the usual role-playing gameplay is typical on the PC, it is rare to see it on the GBA, and beautifully weave together at that. Right from the beginning, you'd see that this is not your usual slash-and-hack game. As you level up, you get to add points to a wide array of stats (including charisma and constitution), improving how you much you attack and defend and so on. Depending on what class you are, you can have a lot of various skills, both passive and active. All classes have their unique skills, and require different stats. The monsters are all unique in appearances and skills, and they actually get hit by their own attacks. Say goodbye to unrealistic games that have enemies that seem immune to their own attacks, and the fact Baldur's Gate included this feature adds a more realistic touch to the game.

Graphics - 8.5

Beautiful semi-3D graphics litter this already-perfect game. The best part of the graphics is that you can actually change the way you look by acquiring new armor and weapons. The different equipment you wear reflects how you look in-game. The various scenery - be it the maze-like Dark Forest or towns like Baldur's Gate - are spectacular to look at. Most of the monsters, surprisingly, all look relatively different, as such RPGs on the GBA usually have repetitive monsters everywhere.

Story - 9

The storyline, to say the least, is clearly engaging and original. No more save-the-world-from-destruction corny plots. The dark story of Baldur's Gate slowly unwinds itself from the start, as you discover new secrets and plans. Mostly unpredictable, I'd say the plot gets two thumbs up.

Sound - 7.5

Not the best game music you can get, but still commendable. Though there is usually no background music, the times when there are is actually good. It creates a more atmospheric feeling whenever you hear them. The sound effects more than makes up the lack of background music. Small features are not overlooked, like how your footsteps sound more hollowed when you're running on wooden planks.

Replay value - 8

Even though you might get the storyline the first time around, replaying it the second time would help you discover new details you'd never notice the first time, or even dig up sub-quests you didn't find/complete the first time. You can also play as the different classes, trying out the various skills and such.

Overall - 9

Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance is overwhelmingly good. It is an epic masterpiece that the GBA gaming scene hasn't seen for ages. Excellent gameplay coupled with stunning graphics and sound effects make this potential GBA Game of the Year a must-have.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 01/22/04