Tech Blog

[#1]

Today is certainly a very big day for video game fans, marking the release of multiple hotly anticipated titles. One of the new games you’ll see on shelves as of today, and one of the more original ones, is the new Game of Thrones RPG which I previewed briefly last week.  Unlike the other games coming out today, this one isn’t a sequel or part of a long running game franchise. It is something relatively fresh and new. It's an opportunity to explore a particular vision of a game world for the first time, which is always an exciting prospect.

That is not to say that this is the first Game of Thrones video game ever made, and it is certainly not the first fantasy themed RPG but the developers at Cyanide Studio have worked closely with George R.R. Martin to make sure this is faithful to the Game of Thrones universe, and is a somewhat fresh take on what could otherwise be any other typical fantasy themed RPG. The game retains all the complexities that hardcore RPG fans will love without `dumbing it down`too, which is a somewhat novel approach in the current video game ecosystem. 

This game isn’t all about shooting, or exploring, or grinding. This game is all about story, characters, power struggles, mysticism, and political intrigue. That is the foundation which makes the whole Game of Thrones universe a success and that is clearly where the focus is for the game. 

You’ll hear a lot about the other games being released today. There will be expensive marketing campaigns, and lots of buzz to get them attention. They’re good games, and they deserve lots of attention. The Game of Thrones RPG might get lost in that shuffle without such a massive push in the marketing department but if you’re a fan of the books or the TV series at all (and I know many of you are), you owe it to yourself to take this game for a spin too.

Game Of thrones with Mini Guide (XBOX 360)

SKU: 10203887

With an original story written under the supervision of George R. R. Martin, filled with characters and locations straight from the pages of the beloved fantasy saga - including the likenesses of stars from the cast of the HBO TV adaptation, Game of Thrones promises to deliver the ultimate interactive RPG experience for fans of its gritty, sophisticated medieval fantasy. Includes Mini Game Guide.

  Read reviews (0)

Game Of thrones with Mini Guide (PlayStation 3)

SKU: 10203888

With an original story written under the supervision of George R. R. Martin, filled with characters and locations straight from the pages of the beloved fantasy saga - including the likenesses of stars from the cast of the HBO TV adaptation, Game of Thrones promises to deliver the ultimate interactive RPG experience for fans of its gritty, sophisticated medieval fantasy. Includes Mini Game Guide.

  Read reviews (0)

[#2]

Have you had a chance to actually play yet Rajio? Can you comment on the gameplay?

Despite a love for the Song of Ice and Fire IP, this is exactly the kind of game I'd normally pass on. However, after reading the PS3 trophy list today, coupled with a few of your comments regarding structure and story, I have to admit I'm curious. I don't want to play every fantasy RPG that involves 60 - 100 hours of fetching, grinding, & side quests (some,yes, just not all!), but if GoT is a nice focused story that's as well done as you seem to imply, it absolutely might be worth a go

That said, the combat still has to be good! I think Kingdom's of Amalur has set a really high standard in that regard. I couldn't believe that combat in a fantasy RPG could ever be as fun as it is in Reckoning, and I was happy to pour 80+ hours into it. Not that I expect other RPG's to mimic it, but it's definitely helped me realize how fun a fantasy RPG can be, and set the standard a little higher for what I'll be willing to play.

So does the gameplay/combat in GoT work, and will it stay fresh and fun long enough to enjoy the entire story?

[#3]

I've only played it for an hour so far. I'll dig in to it this week though and have a full review up next week.

I'm torn what to think about the game so far. There are some aspects where its pretty lackluster, but other aspects where it shines. Then theres aspects that are a matter of opinion. For example building your charchter is very stats based, and theres a skill tree. It not as accessible and streamlined as skyrim but then some players felt that dumbed it down and missed all the numbers. 

The combat system (so far) seems a lot like Dragon Age: Origins. Not sure if you've tried tht out before. Its too soon for me to tell if this 'works' as I've only racked up a couple of minor kills so far. (Thats right, for the first hour you don't kill too much)

If you have more questions, send them my way and I'll try to answer them as I get the review together. I'm glad SOMEONE else is interested in checking this game out in the shadow of Diablo and Max Payne

[#4]

If the combat is ike Dragon Age, I think I'll pass until it hits the $20-$30 bin - I enjoy the story for Dragon Age, but the combat system is really dated and archaic.

JB

[#5]

Well the IGN review was pretty lackluster... At this point I'll probably pass, but I'd still be curious to know what you think after a few more hours of play. Let us know!

Back to Diablo for now I guess... oh right, Battle.net is down again lol