Loses its momentum at the latter half of the game, but worth checking out if you like RPG's.
The first aspect of Risen I noticed is how easily it drew me in from the get-go. There are many interactive items in the game world. I was able to take a piece off a broken tree to use as a weapon, I was able to collect items washed ashore from the shipwreck, and I had to cook up some meat for myself and my lady-friend. I could go into more detail, but let's just say it's very immersive and leave it at that. There is more to the game than those details.
Combat in the game starts off as very difficult and tedious. You may not like it at first, but stick with it and you'll understand how it works, and eventually learn to enjoy it. If you plan to melee, do yourself a favour and acquire a shield at your earliest opportunity. You'll be able to block the low attacks of numerous creatures.
In the latter half of the game, combat become easy, and for the most part, boring, as I was spending all my time shooting fireballs and quaffing potions with little to no danger to myself.
Once getting the "survival" part down, you'll have to work your way into the faction of your choice. And it's great when games like these offer you choice. I believe the story of the game works out pretty much the same no matter what faction you decide upon, but it's the interesting way you get there that makes it fun. I joined the Order voluntarily and was able to become a Mage.
Whether you're in the camp or the city, the characters and the world will draw you in even more than they already have. The voice acting is superb and natural, the music is pretty good, and the quests you have to perform are, for the most part, rather interesting.
Without walking you through the game or spoiling anything, I'll say that it tapers off near the end. It appears obvious to me that Piranha Bytes is best at initial character development and immersion, but they have no idea what to do from there. I'd hope that their next game retains the low-level aspects of the first part of Risen that managed to draw myself, and many others, so easily in the world.
The game is rather fun, despite its lackluster latter portion of the game. Exploring the world is always interesting, the monsters are great, and the crypts that you have to traverse are pretty entertaining. Aside from the ending, I'd have to say the magical combat system is lacking as well. It's pretty much pressing hotkeys and aiming your character. I'd hope for something more interesting and involved in their next game. It is my understanding that Arx Fatalis tried something different.. since I've never played it, I'm not sure how that worked out, but some new system would be nice.
Overall, Risen is a great game that's ruined slightly by a story that tapers off to predictability and weakness, and leaves a bad taste in my mouth at the end compared to how awed I was at the first part of the game. Still, for someone who has trouble finishing games, I had no trouble playing through this 20+ game in less than a week. It was just that good.