Developer: Black Isle Studios

Icewind Dale (2000)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Icewind Dale: A Journey into the Frozen Depths of D&D

Nestled amidst the northernmost reaches of the Forgotten Realms lies a frozen and untamed region known as Icewind Dale. A harsh and unforgiving territory, it is a land of towering mountains, treacherous glaciers, and relentless blizzards. Beneath its icy surface, ancient evils stir, threatening to unleash unspeakable horrors upon the world.

A Classic RPG Rooted in D&D Lore

Released in 2000, Icewind Dale is a classic role-playing game that remains a beloved favorite among Dungeons & Dragons enthusiasts. Developed by Black Isle Studios and published by Interplay Entertainment, Icewind Dale is set in the Forgotten Realms campaign setting and faithfully adheres to the game’s lore and mechanics.

A Perilous Adventure in a Frozen Wasteland

The game follows the journey of a group of adventurers as they venture deep into the treacherous Spine of the World mountains. Their mission: to confront a growing darkness that threatens to consume the region. Along the way, they encounter a cast of memorable characters, engage in epic battles against fearsome beasts, and unravel ancient mysteries.

Gameplay that Captivates

Icewind Dale’s gameplay is a testament to the enduring appeal of tabletop RPGs. Players create a party of up to six adventurers, each with their own unique abilities and skills. The game’s combat system is turn-based, allowing players to carefully plan their strategies and unleash devastating attacks.

Beyond combat, players explore a vast and detailed world filled with secrets to discover and quests to complete. The game’s branching dialogue system and multiple endings ensure that each playthrough offers a unique and immersive experience.

A Visual Masterpiece that Pushes the Boundaries

For its time, Icewind Dale was a graphical marvel. The game’s stunning pre-rendered backgrounds and detailed character models brought the frozen world of Icewind Dale to life. The game’s soundtrack, composed by Inon Zur, perfectly captures the epic and atmospheric tone of the adventure.

A Legacy that Endures

Icewind Dale was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it has continued to captivate gamers for over two decades. The game’s faithful adherence to D&D lore, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals have made it a timeless classic.

In 2014, a remastered version of Icewind Dale was released, featuring updated graphics, bug fixes, and support for modern operating systems. This re-release has allowed a new generation of gamers to experience the magic of this beloved RPG.

A Role-Playing Gem that Stands the Test of Time

Icewind Dale is more than just a video game; it is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the boundless possibilities of imagination. Its immersive world, challenging gameplay, and memorable characters have solidified its place as one of the greatest role-playing games of all time.

Whether you are a seasoned D&D veteran or a newcomer to the world of role-playing games, Icewind Dale is an adventure that is sure to captivate and enthrall. So gather your party, prepare for battle, and embark on an unforgettable journey into the frozen depths of Icewind Dale.

Review Score

9/10

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Fallout 2 (1998)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Fallout 2 (1998): A Post-Apocalyptic Masterpiece

Fallout 2 is a turn-based tactical role-playing game developed by Black Isle Studios and published by Interplay Entertainment. It was released in 1998 as the sequel to the critically acclaimed Fallout (1997).

Fallout 2 is set in a post-apocalyptic world in 2241, 80 years after a nuclear war devastated the Earth. The player takes on the role of the Chosen One, a member of the Vault Dwellers, who is tasked with finding the Garden of Eden Creation Kit to save their famine-stricken tribe.

The game world is vast and open-ended, with dozens of locations to explore, from the ruins of San Francisco to the lawless wasteland of New Reno. The player has complete freedom to choose how they want to complete their quest, and their choices will have a major impact on the story and ending.

Fallout 2’s combat system is turn-based and tactical, with the player controlling a party of up to six characters. The game features a wide variety of weapons and armor, and the player can use a variety of skills and abilities to defeat their enemies.

In addition to its deep and engaging gameplay, Fallout 2 is also known for its dark and humorous tone. The game is full of memorable characters and dialogue, and the player will often find themselves laughing out loud at the absurdity of the post-apocalyptic world.

Key Features

  • A vast and open-ended world to explore, with dozens of locations to visit.
  • A deep and engaging story with multiple endings, depending on the player’s choices.
  • A turn-based tactical combat system with a wide variety of weapons and armor.
  • A cast of memorable characters and dialogue, with a dark and humorous tone.

Critical Reception

Fallout 2 was released to critical acclaim, with many reviewers praising its deep gameplay, engaging story, and dark humor. The game was awarded Game of the Year by several publications, and it is considered to be one of the greatest role-playing games of all time.

Legacy

Fallout 2 has had a major impact on the role-playing genre, and it is considered to be one of the most influential games of all time. The game’s open-ended world, deep character development, and branching dialogue trees have been imitated by many other games, and its dark and humorous tone has set the standard for many post-apocalyptic games.

Fallout 2 is still played by many fans today, and it remains one of the most beloved role-playing games of all time. The game’s legacy is secure, and it will continue to be enjoyed by gamers for many years to come.

Conclusion

Fallout 2 is a true masterpiece of the role-playing genre. Its deep gameplay, engaging story, and dark humor make it one of the most unforgettable and rewarding games ever made. If you are a fan of role-playing games, then you owe it to yourself to play Fallout 2.

Review Score

9.5/10

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Icewind Dale: Heart of Winter – Trials of the Luremaster (2001)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Icewind Dale: Heart of Winter – Trials of the Luremaster (2001)

Introduction

Icewind Dale: Heart of Winter – Trials of the Luremaster is a free expansion released by Black Isle Studios for Icewind Dale: Heart of Winter. It was released in 2001, and was designed to address criticism that Heart of Winter was too short. Trials of the Luremaster adds a number of new areas, enemies, and challenges to the game, making it a worthwhile expansion for fans of the original.

Gameplay

Trials of the Luremaster is a dungeon crawl RPG in the same vein as the original Icewind Dale and Heart of Winter. The player controls a party of up to six characters, who explore a series of dungeons and wilderness areas, fighting monsters, solving puzzles, and completing quests. The game features a real-time combat system with pause, allowing the player to carefully plan their attacks and movements.

One of the most significant additions in Trials of the Luremaster is the new class, the Harper Scout. The Harper Scout is a versatile class that can fill a variety of roles in the party, including damage dealer, healer, and support. The Harper Scout also has a number of unique abilities, such as the ability to track enemies and set traps.

In addition to the new class, Trials of the Luremaster also adds a number of new areas to explore. These areas include the Spine of the World mountains, the Underdark, and the city of Luskan. Each area is filled with new enemies and challenges, and there are also a number of new quests to complete.

Story

The story of Trials of the Luremaster takes place after the events of Heart of Winter. The player characters have defeated the evil demigod Icasaracht, but the threat to Icewind Dale is not over. A new evil has arisen in the form of the Luremaster, a powerful wizard who is seeking to conquer the region.

The player characters must travel across Icewind Dale and beyond to stop the Luremaster and his forces. Along the way, they will encounter new allies and enemies, and they will learn more about the secrets of the region.

Reception

Trials of the Luremaster was well-received by critics, who praised the new content and the improved gameplay. The expansion was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies.

Legacy

Trials of the Luremaster is considered to be one of the best expansions ever released for a video game. It added a significant amount of new content to the original game, and it improved the gameplay in a number of ways. Trials of the Luremaster is a must-play for fans of Icewind Dale: Heart of Winter, and it is still enjoyed by many gamers today.

Conclusion

Icewind Dale: Heart of Winter – Trials of the Luremaster is a great expansion to an already great game. It adds a number of new areas, enemies, and challenges, and it also introduces a new class, the Harper Scout. The story is engaging, and the gameplay is top-notch. If you’re a fan of Icewind Dale: Heart of Winter, then you should definitely check out Trials of the Luremaster.

Review Score

8/10

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Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance II (2004)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 7 minutes read

Summary

Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance II (2004)

Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance II is an action role-playing game developed by Black Isle Studios and published by Interplay Entertainment. It was released for PlayStation 2 and Xbox in 2004, and for Windows in 2005. The game is a sequel to Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance, and is based on the Forgotten Realms campaign setting of Dungeons & Dragons.

Players control a party of up to three characters through a series of hack-and-slash levels, fighting monsters and completing quests. The game features a branching storyline, with players’ choices affecting the course of the game.

Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance II was praised for its combat, character customization, and branching storyline. However, it was also criticized for its repetitive gameplay and lack of innovation.

Gameplay

Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance II is an action role-playing game in which players control a party of up to three characters through a series of hack-and-slash levels. The game features a branching storyline, with players’ choices affecting the course of the game.

The game’s combat is real-time and action-oriented. Players can use a variety of weapons and spells to attack enemies. The game also features a number of environmental hazards, such as traps and poisonous gas, that players must avoid.

Players can choose from a variety of character classes, each with its own unique abilities and playstyle. The game also features a number of different weapons and items that players can use to customize their characters.

Story

The story of Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance II takes place in the Forgotten Realms campaign setting of Dungeons & Dragons. The game begins in the city of Baldur’s Gate, which is under siege by a horde of demons. The player characters are tasked with defending the city and defeating the demons.

As the player characters progress through the game, they will learn more about the demons and their motives. They will also encounter a variety of allies and enemies, and make choices that will affect the course of the game.

Characters

There are six character classes to choose from in Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance II:

  • Barbarian: A melee fighter who excels in close combat.
  • Cleric: A healer who can also cast offensive spells.
  • Fighter: A versatile melee fighter who can use a variety of weapons and armor.
  • Monk: A martial artist who uses unarmed combat and ki abilities.
  • Ranger: A ranged fighter who can use bows, crossbows, and other ranged weapons.
  • Wizard: A spellcaster who can cast a variety of spells.

Each character class has its own unique abilities and playstyle. Players can choose to create a party of characters that complement each other’s abilities, or they can create a party of characters that they simply enjoy playing.

Reception

Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance II was praised for its combat, character customization, and branching storyline. However, it was also criticized for its repetitive gameplay and lack of innovation.

The game received a score of 8.5 out of 10 from IGN, which praised its “fast-paced combat” and “deep character customization.” However, IGN also criticized the game’s “repetitive gameplay” and “lack of innovation.”

GameSpot gave the game a score of 7.5 out of 10, praising its “solid combat” and “enjoyable co-op mode.” However, GameSpot also criticized the game’s “repetitive quests” and “lack of originality.”

Overall, Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance II is a solid action role-playing game with a lot to offer fans of the genre. However, the game’s repetitive gameplay and lack of innovation may disappoint some players.

Legacy

Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance II was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. The game was also nominated for a number of awards, including the Game of the Year award at the 2004 Golden Joystick Awards.

Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance II is still considered one of the best action role-playing games of its generation. The game’s combat, character customization, and branching storyline have all been praised by critics and players alike.

In 2022, a remastered version of Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance II was released for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and Windows. The remastered version includes updated graphics, new character models, and a number of other improvements.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Planescape: Torment (1999)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Planescape: Torment (1999): A Masterpiece of Role-Playing

Released in 1999, Planescape: Torment is a role-playing game (RPG) developed by Black Isle Studios and published by Interplay Entertainment. Set in the Dungeons & Dragons campaign setting of Planescape, the game follows the Nameless One, an immortal amnesiac who sets off on a quest across the infinite Planes to rediscover his past and reclaim his mortality.

Planescape: Torment is widely regarded as one of the greatest RPGs ever made, and for good reason. The game features a deeply immersive story, complex and compelling characters, and a unique setting that blends fantasy and philosophy.

Story

The Nameless One awakens in a mortuary with no memory of his past. The only clue to his identity is a tattoo on his hand that reads, “Remember your death.” As he sets out on his journey, he encounters a cast of unforgettable characters, each with their own unique story and motivations.

Among his companions are Morte, a floating skull who claims to be the Lord of Death; Dak’kon, a githzerai monk who seeks redemption for his past crimes; and Annah, a tiefling who is struggling to find her place in the world.

Together, the Nameless One and his companions travel across the Planes, facing challenges and making choices that will shape the course of their journey. Along the way, they learn more about the Nameless One’s past and the horrors he committed in his previous lives.

Gameplay

Planescape: Torment is a turn-based RPG that uses the Infinity Engine, the same engine that was used in Baldur’s Gate and Icewind Dale. The game features a variety of character classes and skills, allowing players to create a customized party that suits their playstyle.

Combat is resolved through a dice-rolling system, and players can choose to either control their characters directly or set their AI scripts to automate their actions. The game also features a unique dialogue system that allows players to interact with NPCs in a variety of ways.

Setting

Planescape: Torment is set in the Planescape campaign setting, which is a multiverse of infinite planes of existence. Each plane has its own unique laws and inhabitants, and the Nameless One and his companions must travel between them to find the answers they seek.

The game’s setting is rich and detailed, and it provides a backdrop for a story that explores themes of mortality, identity, and redemption.

Characters

One of the strengths of Planescape: Torment is its cast of characters. The Nameless One is a complex and enigmatic protagonist, and his companions are equally well-developed. Each character has their own unique story and motivations, and they all play an important role in the game’s narrative.

The characters in Planescape: Torment are some of the most memorable and beloved in RPG history. They are complex, flawed, and relatable, and they stay with you long after you finish the game.

Legacy

Planescape: Torment was a critical and commercial success, and it has since become one of the most beloved RPGs of all time. The game has been praised for its story, characters, setting, and gameplay, and it is considered to be a masterpiece of the genre.

Planescape: Torment has had a lasting impact on the RPG genre, and it continues to inspire and influence game developers today. The game’s unique setting and characters have been cited as influences on games such as The Elder Scrolls: Morrowind and Divinity: Original Sin.

Conclusion

Planescape: Torment is a truly unforgettable RPG experience. The game’s story, characters, setting, and gameplay are all top-notch, and it is a must-play for any fan of the genre. If you are looking for a deep and immersive RPG that will stay with you long after you finish it, then Planescape: Torment is the game for you.

Review Score

10/10

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Icewind Dale: Heart of Winter (2001)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Icewind Dale: Heart of Winter (2001)

Introduction

Icewind Dale: Heart of Winter is an expansion pack to the classic role-playing game Icewind Dale, released in 2001. Developed by Black Isle Studios and using Bioware’s Infinity Engine and the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons rules, Heart of Winter expands the northern reaches of Icewind Dale, providing a whole host of new challenges for your characters, along with new spells, items, and enemies.

Story

Heart of Winter picks up where Icewind Dale left off, with your party of adventurers returning to the Spine of the World mountains to investigate a mysterious new threat. You soon discover that a powerful evil known as the Frost Giant Jarl has emerged from the depths of the glacier, and is amassing an army of orcs, goblins, and other creatures to conquer the Ten Towns and the rest of the Forgotten Realms.

As you journey through the snow-swept wastes of Icewind Dale, you will face a variety of new challenges, including treacherous ice caves, deadly blizzards, and fierce frost giants. You will also encounter new allies, such as the enigmatic wizard Elminster Aumar and the brave dwarven warrior Thibbledorf Pwent.

The story of Heart of Winter is epic in scope, and will take you on a journey from the icy peaks of the Spine of the World to the bustling streets of Luskan. Along the way, you will make difficult choices that will affect the fate of the Forgotten Realms.

Gameplay

Heart of Winter uses the same basic gameplay as Icewind Dale, but with a number of new features and improvements. The most significant change is the addition of a new character class, the barbarian. Barbarians are fierce warriors who excel in melee combat, and they can use their rage ability to increase their strength and damage output.

Other new features in Heart of Winter include:

  • New spells and items, including powerful artifacts that can give your characters a significant advantage in combat.
  • New enemies, such as frost giants, orcs, and goblins.
  • A new area to explore, the Spine of the World mountains.
  • A new story that is fully integrated with the original Icewind Dale campaign.

Graphics and Sound

Heart of Winter uses the same graphics engine as Icewind Dale, which was state-of-the-art at the time of its release. The game’s visuals are still impressive today, and the snow-swept landscapes of Icewind Dale are truly breathtaking.

The sound design in Heart of Winter is also top-notch. The game’s music is both atmospheric and haunting, and the sound effects are realistic and immersive.

Reception

Heart of Winter was met with critical acclaim upon its release, and is considered one of the best expansion packs ever made. The game was praised for its epic story, challenging gameplay, and beautiful graphics.

Conclusion

Icewind Dale: Heart of Winter is an essential expansion pack for fans of the original game. It offers a vast new world to explore, challenging new enemies to face, and a gripping story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. If you’re looking for a classic RPG experience, then Heart of Winter is definitely worth checking out.

Tips for Playing Heart of Winter

  • Create a well-rounded party of characters. You’ll need a mix of melee fighters, spellcasters, and healers to succeed in Heart of Winter.
  • Don’t be afraid to explore. There are many hidden areas in Heart of Winter, containing valuable loot and powerful items.
  • Be prepared for the cold. The Spine of the World mountains are a harsh and unforgiving environment. Make sure your characters are equipped with warm clothing and supplies.
  • Don’t underestimate your enemies. The creatures of Heart of Winter are tough, and they will quickly overwhelm you if you’re not careful.
  • Save often. Heart of Winter is a challenging game, and you don’t want to lose your progress due to a sudden death.

Review Score

9/10

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Icewind Dale II (2002)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

With its blend of traditional role-playing elements and updated mechanics, Icewind Dale II is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Icewind Dale series and its place in the pantheon of classic RPGs.

Introduction

A sequel to the critically acclaimed Icewind Dale, Icewind Dale II sets players on an epic quest in the windswept north of the Forgotten Realms, thirty years after the original game.

Synopsis

Players answer the call to defend Targos against a monstrous horde, delving into a new story filled with danger, intrigue, and the classic dungeon-crawling gameplay beloved by fans.

Characters

The game allows players to create a party of up to six characters from a variety of races and classes, facing off against a multitude of enemies including the nefarious forces of the Chimera.

Gameplay

Featuring the Dungeons & Dragons Third Edition rules, the game emphasizes strategic combat, party management, and exploration. Players will navigate treacherous terrains, engage in intense tactical battles, and unravel the mysteries threatening the Ten-Towns.

Reception and Critiscism

Icewind Dale II received generally favorable reviews, praised for its engaging combat, depth of character customization, and use of the D&D 3rd Edition rules. Critics noted its challenging difficulty and strategic gameplay, though some mentioned dated graphics and pathfinding issues.

Conclusion

Icewind Dale II remains a standout title in the realm of RPGs, offering a richly detailed world and challenging gameplay that rewards strategic thinking and careful party management.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Fallout (1997)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Fallout (1997) revolutionized the RPG genre with its open-world exploration, deep narrative, and player choice. It set a new standard for video games, combining a post-apocalyptic setting with a rich story and deep character customization.

Introduction

Released in 1997, Fallout is not just a game; it’s a groundbreaking experience in the world of RPGs. Set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, it challenges players with moral dilemmas and offers unparalleled freedom in character development and storyline progression.

Synopsis

In Fallout, players are immersed in a post-nuclear war era where they must navigate the remnants of the United States to find a replacement water chip for their Vault. The game’s narrative weaves a complex tale of survival, exploring the devastated landscapes of California. From the desolate wastelands to the struggling communities and sinister organizations, the game presents a rich, open world filled with tough choices and consequences. As the Vault Dweller, players encounter diverse factions, including the Brotherhood of Steel and the enigmatic Super Mutants, each with their own ideologies and part in the wasteland’s future.

Characters

Fallout introduces a memorable cast of characters, each contributing to the depth of the game’s story. The protagonist, the Vault Dweller, serves as the player’s avatar in this harsh world, facing moral and tactical decisions that shape the narrative. Notable characters include the deceptive and monstrous Master, the game’s primary antagonist, whose plans for the wasteland are as complex as they are malicious. Supporting characters, such as Ian, Tycho, and Dogmeat, offer assistance and companionship, adding layers to the gameplay and narrative. The game’s NPCs are not just quest givers but are integral to the story, offering insights, challenges, and depth to the world of Fallout.

Gameplay

Fallout’s gameplay is a pioneering blend of turn-based combat and real-time exploration, set against an isometric backdrop. The S.P.E.C.I.A.L. system allows for detailed character customization, impacting everything from combat effectiveness to dialogue options. This depth of choice extends to the game’s quests and interactions, where players can choose multiple paths to success, from diplomacy to outright aggression. The game’s emphasis on choice and consequence makes each playthrough a unique experience, with the world reacting dynamically to the player’s actions. Combat is strategic, with the V.A.T.S. system allowing targeted attacks, adding a layer of depth and strategy to encounters.

Reception and Critiscism

Upon its release, Fallout received critical acclaim for its open-world design, deep narrative, and the freedom it offered players. Reviewers praised its innovative gameplay mechanics and the way it broke from traditional RPG tropes, offering a mature, complex story set in a richly imagined world. Criticisms were few but included mentions of clunky controls and some graphical limitations. Despite these, the game is revered for its role in shaping the RPG genre, offering a template for player-driven storytelling and world-building that many games have since followed.

Conclusion

Fallout stands as a monument in the landscape of video games, a testament to innovative design and storytelling. Its legacy is evident in the many games it has inspired, and its place in the pantheon of RPGs is secure. For those looking to experience where modern RPGs began, Fallout is an essential play.

Review Score

9/10

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