Solid turn-based game, but flawed AI really brings the score down
User Rating: 8.8 | Gladius XBOX
Good turn-based combat without the Japanese anime cliches. The gladiator theme works very well and the story never really gets in the way of the fighting. Indeed the combat is 90% of the game so if you don't like turn-based strategy, you will hate this game no matter what. For those who are interested though, the difficulty level ramps up nicely and the wide assortment of enemies and weapons are huge plusses. The graphics on the XBOX are actually quite good, though not as good as the overall look of "Knights of the Republic." Even better than the look, the interface is well-executed considering all of the options that are available during and between combat matches. So why the so-so score? The enemy AI is very very disappointing when the match isn't just a standard deathmatch. Some of the warrior types are pretty much useless because other warrior types are too useful and too strong. Finally, the subquests and story-line feels under-developed and sometimes silly. This doesn't wreck the game but when you get to the very last fight, you will likely be disappointed with the story-line. I will happily play any sequel (if there is one) but I hope the AI is much improved the next time around.
