First look: Enclave Xbox

Recently, German publisher Swing Entertainment announced that it will publish its third-person shooter Enclave for the Xbox. Developed by Swedish studio Starbreeze, Enclave is a third-person action shooter that puts players in a medieval story. In the fantasy world of Enclave, the people of light and the people of darkness are divided by a bottomless rift that split the earth many millennia ago. The lands of light are prosperous and rich, an enclave of truth and order surrounded by the twisted and barren lands of the dark, war-ravaged plains known as the Outlands. Over the centuries, the rift has started to close, and skirmishes along the border have become more and more frequent. It is only a matter of time before these altercations turn into a full-scale war. Players can decide to take the side of light or dark as they prepare for the imminent war.

Developers Starbreeze promise fast-paced medieval combat action combined with impressive visuals. There will be 20 fantasy-themed levels, ranging from grand castles to lava caverns and snowy mountaintop cities. In total, there will be 10 playable character classes, including wolf riders, elvin archers, and others. Weapons and items will include swords, axes, crossbows, daggers, and magical staffs. Four-player split-screen modes will allow for cooperative or competitive play. Additional objects such as catapults or ballistae can be used to destroy sections of the environment in real time in select levels, according to the developers. The story will be split into two separate single-player campaigns, telling the story from the side of light and the side of darkness.

Enclave is currently set for a European release in early 2002. A US release date hasn't been confirmed yet, but it is known that Conspiracy Entertainment will publish the game in that territory.