Crusaders of Might and Magic Review

The universe of Might and Magic is surely one of the most popular computer game systems in existence. Following a series of FRPs and strategy games, the first action game appeared set in these attractive surroundings. 3DO, well known for its marvelous RPG titles, presented us with a combination of action and role-playing elements nicely packaged under a name of Crusaders of Might and Magic. Much has been expected from the game, considering the reputation of its publisher, and the drawing-power of the Might & Magic universe. Alas, if those expectations had been justified, remained unclear, even now after the Crusaders of Might and Magic finally appeared. The opinions on the quality of the game are generally divided, so we can only give you our own impressions.

The main protagonist of the game is a warrior named Drake. While he was but a small child, hordes of undead creatures from the Fallen Legions massacred his village, taking the lives of his friends and family, and leaving him with a nasty scar on his face (Conan flash-backs anyone?). The only thing that kept him going for twenty years was his thirst for vengeance, because of which he devoted his life to fighting unholy abominations. Drake will not rest until the chief zombie Necros is defeated. Simply put, we've got a serious job on our hands here.

"Crusaders" is completely 3D with a third-person perspective and the behind the back camera placement, resembling "Heretic II". The role-playing aspect of the game is presented through the possibility of character advance. All through the game you will find objects and equipment that will progressively increase Drake's fighting power. On the other hand, characteristics like intelligence, hit points, and speed can only be increased using magical potions placed all around the levels, or on the bodies of dead enemies like all other objects. Every successfully completed duel will increase experience points, even though they do not influence Drake's capabilities. All in all, the RPG concept in "Crusaders" is a big superficial failure. Action game fans are bound to love mere collecting of beneficiary add-ons and cutting up ugly skeletons, whilst those who expected something more will be deeply disappointed.

The action aspect of the game has been given much more attention. Once you pass the tutorial level and get grips with the control system fighting rotten skeletons becomes pure delight. The weapons are varied and lethal, and the enemies are cut out to be cut up. To be honest, the enemies are somehow nondescript, so after some fifty sliced skeletons behind you things tend to get a bit boring. This is where magic is introduced. Torches, fireballs, super strength, lightning and all other magical weapons are smoothly implemented to remind us that it still is a game of might and magic. The impression would be even better if the final version did not have several graphical bugs, which will hopefully be corrected with some fancy patching-up from the developers. The enemies' AI is not to be underestimated. If you care to live, you will have to practice using the shield, because randomly waving the sword and casting spells about will not get you far - the enemy will always find a way to "grace you" with a devastating blow. That is particularly dangerous when you face several enemies at once. Still, once you master the tactics the fights will become monotonous as well.

The greatest disappointment, however, was the atrociously bad level design. The levels are senselessly long; the ambience is monotonous (you keep wandering about some canyons), landmarks practically inexistent, leaving you to roam vast spaces trying to find a level exit. If it weren't for the enemies and collectible items, the quickest way one would finish this game would be choosing the "Quit" option. Long walks and endless fighting with the hordes of evil will remain unrewarded, and you will have no feeling of accomplishment. Mechanized action is all that remains from the potential game of the year

The atmosphere during game play is satisfactory, apart from its striking resemblance to console action games (3DO developed the Playstation version of the game at the same time). The control system is very good, especially the mouse navigation system, an oddity in third person shooters. The camera is swift, mouse driven, and covers the complete field of view, giving perfect oversight. The graphics and sound are fairly done, yet still they cannot make up for the overall bad impression.

Hints: Turn on the "mouse look" option. This way it is much easier to change perspective. / When attacking a skeleton, run up to it and pull your sword some ten meters before you reach it, for that gives you a much stronger swing. / The enemies are very skillful with shields, so if you want to live, we suggest you learn to use shields as well. Bear in mind that placing a shield can be done much quicker than swinging a sword, so if you see the enemy attacking, rapidly press your defense key (RMB).