Except for the graphics it plays like a japanese dreamcast import from the 90's.
When the hint book says '..you'll be hoofing it a lot..' they aren't kidding. I thought Oblivion was bad (for foot travel) but this game should be called "Fantasy Sword Marathon". You can learn to ride a boar (?!?!) to get places quicker but be prepared to spend 70% of your time running. Unlike Oblivion, there's not much to do on the runs. Some animals to kill. Some lizards to pick up...etc.
The combat was 'meh'. Very arcade. Definetly a "attack, attack, attack, magic attack, attack, attack, attack (check to see if magic attack had recharged), attack". I mean, once you level up some, it's all about evading, sword hits, and (when recharged) linin up your magic attack...blah. Felt like a live action version of Time Stalkers for the Dreamcast (uh-oh...showing my age).
The interaction was...horrible? No, I think something was lost in translation. Probably the most over-the-top, disjointed, and utterly boring bit of voice dialogue I have run into in a while. "Yonah! You SILLY CHILD..Why are you here? In the Library...It is bad for your HEALTH!" I kept waiting for him to yell "..by the power of Grayskull".
Storyline and graphics were what pulled me in (and kept me playing for 11 hours). Graphics are good. Seamless with no texture errors (I saw..YMMV). I like how it switches views depending on what (mini-game/quest) you were attempting. Still, nothing that leaves you breathless....no 'hook'.
Overall? A 4.0 out of 10. This definetly a 'wait for it to get to >$30' unless you are a japanese game freak.
Ho-hum.....