A Fun, Action-Led RPG Set In A Distinct, If Bright World of Characters and Factions
Yes, as I pointed in my first review was that to me personally the game seemed quite child-friendly, yet playing through it once more there were some moments, and lore that were quite adult themed. The more I played through quests, and general exploration the more the action seemed quite bloody, and thoroughly enjoyable.
I believe that due to my love and loyalty to other RPG series on the market such as Elder Scrolls, Fallout, Dragon Age, The Witcher, Mass Effect, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. franchises, I was skeptical of Kingdoms of Amalur. Some of the quests are so involving, that I found myself picking up everything I could find, instead of rushing through them in my first play-through. Surprisingly since enjoying the the game, I have purchased one of the two DLC's that expand the main story and quest of the game, with additional lore and areas to explore.
The Good:
- The combat system is amazing, and fluid once you have the hang of it, as the ease of shooting off arrows from a distance, and switching to your broad sword is so smooth it feels almost like you are playing a third-person adventure game rather than an RPG.
- The regions you explore are well balanced and interesting with changes in the environment, and even the characters you come across as you complete quests and missions.
- Quests are varied, with many different factions to follow, some quite unique and original.
- Hours of game-play, simply from exploring ruins, caves and burrows on top of continuously leveling up in skill and level.
- There is a lot of additional DLC to purchase to add more quests, and areas to explore such as The Legend of Dead Kel and Teeth of Naros, both for only 800 Microsoft points to buy.
The Bad:
- Lack of a good dark fantasy story, considering that is what Amalur was being pinned as, a companion to the likes of Skyrim and Dragon Age.
- Lack of and bad camera angles, of your character and the area you are looking into.
Kingdoms of Amalur is best suited to fans of RPG's, but it could perhaps be played by those seeking an action adventure game, if they are reasonably alright with RPG elements. You can find KOA: Reckoning in some stores and shops for under £10, and if you are afraid of splashing that out on the game, try and rent it for less.