Baldur's Gate
Baldur's Gate is the one game on this list that looks like it might get it all right: a compelling storyline, a faithful adaptation of a proven role-playing game system, multiplayer options that allow you to co-operatively play through the game, and outstanding 24-bit graphics. If BioWare and Interplay can pull this ambitious project together, it may single-handedly make pen-and-paper role-playing games obsolete.

Ultima: Ascension
The most controversial upcoming game previewed in this feature, Ultima: Ascension, has garnered some scorn from veterans of the series who are concerned that Origin's development team is overemphasizing technology and action-oriented gameplay instead of traditional-style role-playing. Ultima VIII: Pagan tried to appeal to both action-oriented and hard-core role-playing gamers and ended up alienating fans of both genres. While Origin may be on the verge of making another Pagan-esque mistake, I'm inclined to give Richard "Lord British" Garriott's team the benefit of the doubt. Ultima: Ascension's technology is undeniably impressive, and the Ultima series has always significantly evolved with each title. Maybe it's a bit of morbid curiosity, but I can't wait to see if Origin can recharge its flagship series.

Diablo II
The best of the RPG/action game hybrids, Diablo II is well on track to replace its predecessor as the most compelling hack-and-slash role-playing game yet. Role-playing game aficionados should appreciate the larger gaming world, new skill-based development system, and more varied character classes. Action gamers who loved Diablo should relish the improved line-of-sight system and reworked multiplayer options.

Fallout 2
Like any sequel that substantially relies upon the same engine as its predecessor, Fallout 2 risks being labeled as just "more of the same." When more of the same means "more of the best role-playing game to be released in several years," it's hard to get too disappointed with Interplay's design choices. In fact, the development team has promised to deliver improved non-player character intelligence, more balanced gameplay, and a significantly larger gaming world while retaining the original game's tactical combat, originality, and sense of humor. Sounds like a recipe for another RPG of the year award.

And one that's already available....

Might & Magic VI: Mandate of Heaven
An addictive combination of traditional-style role-playing and a vast 3D world to explore. With its skill-based character development system that is constantly rewarding, tactical combat with hundreds of enemy types, and well-designed dungeons and towns, Might & Magic VI is a solid candidate for best RPG of 1998.

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