Neverwinter Nights 2 Preview

"Proper" single-player RPGs have been scarce lately, which is why I've been extremely upset during the last two months. Apart from action-packed RPGs like Dungeon Siege 2 and Fable: The Lost Chapters, we didn't really get a chance to dig into some decent RPG gaming. The gaming market continually shifts towards the MMO and FPS scene. But, what else is new. We all know that making good and engaging RPGs takes time. Several hardworking professional development teams are out there right now, carefully laying the groundwork for the next wave of RPG titles. So, thanks to their effort, the computer entertainment industry can look forward to promising games such as Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, Gothic 3, and, of course, Neverwitner Nights 2 (currently being developed by Obsidian Entertainment). Hmm, maybe I should also mention Bioware's two new projects - Mass Effect (Xbox 360) and Dragon Age (PC), both of which are engulfed in the mists of secrecy. (And hopefully better than Jade Empire. - Ed)

Sit down in my lap, little boy. I'm going to tell you a wonderful story.

What's the word... moody... yeah.

It appears that the attitude driving the development team of NWN 2 reflects a modern-day concept, according to which single-player RPGs have a more cinematic feel throughout the whole experience, as opposed to a classic stats-driven game. Apparently, such an approach leaves a lasting impression on gamers. Naturally, if this method is used to generally build upon addictive aspects of gameplay, as well as to create a more involving storyline, then I for one am all for it. However, therein lies the catch. Developers commonly dwell on allegedly unique ideas that often don't come out right in the final version of the game. Projecting this outlook on an elaborate RPG such as Neverwinter Nights is slightly risky and may throw the entire single-player game off balance. Nevewinter Nights, along with the official expansion packs, offered plenty in terms of character development. It also featured unique use of D&D 3.5 edition rules. Most importantly, it had great depth. Although not entirely perfect, the sophisticated gameplay mechanics of NWN swiftly turned the game into one of the most enjoyable (and profitable - Ed.) RPGs on the market. Many things in the game depended on the player's choice of race, class, and character alignment. Undoubtedly, the best part was accumulating and methodically distributing hard-earned experience points, upgrading numerous skills and utilizing it all effectively throughout combat and dialogue. Extracting or reducing some of these segments, which made the first game successful and adored by many devoted RPG players, might shift the franchise to a different plane. But, we should take comfort in the fact that the project was handed over to the right people. Hell, Knights of the Old Republic 2 was sufficient evidence that Obsidian Entertainment is quite capable of elaborating on Bioware's work in the right way. (If we disregard the relatively shoddy programming in KOTOR 2. - Ed.) You should sleep easy, therefore, knowing that NWN 2 is in good hands.

Recent reports indicated that Neverwinter Nights 2 is shaping up to be an excellent looking game. As you all probably know, the engine used in NWN 2 was built from scratch and according to the developers, it allowed them to incorporate an array of details both in indoor and outdoor environments. Character and creature models in particular also show a radical improvement over the original. On top of that, it appears that the folks at Obsidian weren't reluctant to borrow a few elements from KOTOR 2 - for starters, the third-person camera similar to what we've seen in that game, as well as the manner in which dialogue is conducted.

Fans will be happy to know that they'll be visiting locations in and around the great city of Neverwinter once more. It's hardly the same city though. Ravaged and nearly torn apart during the great siege, Neverwinter won't be the city you remember. You step into the shoes of a commoner, little known to the world. The journey begins in your homeland, the swamp village of West Harbor, which has an old and turbulent history. In fact, the very foundation of this place was built on the exact same location where the last meeting between the King of Shadows and the forces of Neverwinter took place. Before you know it, West Harbor is under attack by a small army and you'll soon find yourself in the middle of a raging battle. But the villagers are proud and sturdy folk with an instinct for survival, so, along with your help, they should manage to ward off their attackers. Obsidian was very clear on how they wanted to present the story and the main character in Neverwinter Nights 2. The tale evolves as the main character gradually becomes more powerful and gains reputation. To put it simply, you are anonymous and faced with tough choices and challenges, working your way up from scratch. At the beginning, important and renowned characters will often ignore you, so you need to find some way of gaining their trust and respect.

As I've explained earlier, NWN 2 clings to the D&D 3.5 edition rules, which, according to the development team are much easier to work with than earlier versions. The first major innovation in the game comes with the inclusion of the warlock class, which makes its debut in a D&D computer game. The idea was to ensure a more practical role of spell-wielding characters when they start their journey. In other words, the warlock class has a range of extremely helpful skills and powers that can be used at the beginning of the game. That's definitely a good move. Experienced RPG gamers know that most magic-based classes require a lot of tender loving care and leveling up, before certain skills and spells can be exercised. Another welcomed premiere is Obsidian's effort to include practically every Forgotten Realms playable race and sub-race as a player option. This is actually the first time this is being done in a D&D game.

Normally, character alignment also has a significant influence on the course of the game. In essence, the deeds and behavior of your avatar is strictly your decision. Your actions determine if you are good or bad, but whether your intentions are honorable or not gives a more accurate perception of the character's alignment (lawful or chaotic). It's safe to say that the concept of good and evil is interpreted similarly to what we saw in KOTOR 2. Obsidian Entertainment is obviously going in the right direction with this one.

Throughout the single-player campaign, you will be able to rely on the services of your henchmen. In Neverwinter Nights 2 up to three companions can follow the main character on his quests. The neat innovation (when compared to the original NWN game) is that players are granted full access to the henchmen's inventory, allowing for broadened combat tactics as well as better control of the NPCs. Many of your companions were also included as a crucial segment of the game's story. As the whole plot unwraps, you'll learn more about them and their connection to the main character. Believe it or not, gaining renown and hiring henchmen doesn't merely involve strolling through the countryside, killing monsters and completing quests. The really cool part is that a decent reputation earns players the right to build their own strongholds. Subsequently, players may use their new-founded personal lair in many ways - for instance, you can head out on a quest and instruct henchmen to remain behind and research spells - a rather praiseworthy addition to the RPG routine and an excellent improvement over the original game.