Game Reviews - Indews

The gameplay is similar to that of any action RPG in that you basically roam around, solve quests, and fight enemies. Fans of KOTOR will definitely feel right at home as everything from the menus to the inventory to the quests to the combat setup is all fairly similar. Except, what Jade Empire has to offer that is unique is its use of Japanese mythicism and an overall great storyline. The game will suck you in and never let go both because the story is interesting and the gameplay is downright addicting.

First off, you will have the choice of selecting a quick fighter or a strong one. You can select from pre-made character models and stats or go through and customize one for yourself. After some brief tutorials you will be released to journey the empire, follow a good or a dark path, and ultimately decide the both your own fate as well as that of the empire. Along the way you will meet many followers, each with his or her own unique abilities, as well as learning many different martial arts, weapon, and magic styles.

On top of the solid gameplay and storyline, Jade Empire is also one of the prettiest looking games of the year. Blood is really the only questionable aspect, but it doesn't affect the overall look of the game. The graphics are, without a doubt, top-notch. The environment of the world will make you feel like you jumped into a famous landscape painting and decided to have a look around. The character models of the possible players you can choose from the start are well detailed and modeled as are the NPC's you interact with. The creative sights that you will encounter, such as a version of heaven, will have you gawking at the screen. Simply put, there will be no disappointment found here.

Jade Empire, additionally, sounds wonderful to say the least. This game offers a nice selection of music as you explore the world. The sound FX of the fighting is done quite well too. Overall though you most likely won't be paying as much attention to the sound as you would the screen, but still those who can appreciate the hard work placed into the soundtrack and effects won't be disappointed. On top of all that the game carries thousands upon thousands of lines of well written dialogue that all received excellent voice overs that really help to draw you into the game.

Jade Empire should win RPG of the year hands down. It just gets every single aspect right. The gameplay is solid, the graphics are beautiful, the story is enthralling, and the sound is quite pleasant. Overall it ends up being an extremely appealing package to any and all fans of the genre.