Summary
- Release Year: 2001
- Genres: Role-playing game (RPG), Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS)
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Troika Games
- Publishers: Sierra Entertainment
Arcanum: Of Steamworks and Magick Obscura is a role-playing game developed by Troika Games and published by Sierra On-Line in 2001. The game is set in a fantasy world where magic and technology coexist in an uneasy balance. The player takes on the role of an amnesiac who must travel the world to uncover their past and stop a madman from destroying the world.
Arcanum was praised for its deep and engaging world-building, its complex and challenging combat system, and its memorable characters. The game was also notable for its steampunk aesthetic, which combined elements of fantasy and science fiction.
Setting
Arcanum is set in a world where magic and technology have existed side-by-side for centuries. The game’s world is a melting pot of different cultures and races, each with their own unique take on magic and technology.
The humans are the most populous race in Arcanum, and they have a long history of both magical and technological innovation. The elves are a long-lived race with a deep connection to nature, and they are known for their skill in magic. The dwarves are a hardy race of miners and craftsmen, and they are known for their skill in working with metal. The orcs are a nomadic race of warriors, and they are known for their strength and ferocity.
The world of Arcanum is a dangerous place, and there are many threats to the peace and stability of the realm. One of the most pressing threats is the rise of the Cult of Entropy, a group of fanatics who believe that the world must be destroyed in order to be reborn.
Gameplay
Arcanum is a role-playing game in which the player takes on the role of an amnesiac who must travel the world to uncover their past and stop the Cult of Entropy. The player can create their character from a variety of races and classes, each with their own unique abilities and skills.
The game’s combat system is turn-based, and it allows the player to use a variety of weapons and spells to defeat their enemies. The player can also use stealth and diplomacy to avoid combat altogether.
Arcanum features a deep and complex crafting system that allows the player to create their own weapons, armor, and potions. The player can also use the crafting system to repair damaged items or to create new items from scratch.
Reception
Arcanum was praised by critics for its deep and engaging world-building, its complex and challenging combat system, and its memorable characters. The game was also notable for its steampunk aesthetic, which combined elements of fantasy and science fiction.
Arcanum was a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide. The game was nominated for several awards, including the Game of the Year award from the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences.
Legacy
Arcanum is considered to be one of the greatest role-playing games of all time. The game’s deep and engaging world-building, its complex and challenging combat system, and its memorable characters have made it a favorite among fans of the genre.
Arcanum has also been praised for its steampunk aesthetic, which has inspired many other games and works of fiction. The game’s unique blend of fantasy and science fiction has helped to create a new and exciting genre of role-playing games.
Additional Information
- Arcanum was developed by Troika Games, a company founded by former Fallout team members Tim Cain, Leonard Boyarsky, and Jason Anderson.
- The game’s soundtrack was composed by Mark Morgan, who also composed the soundtrack for Fallout and Fallout 2.
- Arcanum was originally released for the PC, but it was later ported to the Xbox and PlayStation 2.
- In 2010, a fan-made expansion pack for Arcanum was released, called Arcanum: The Lost Age of Arcanum.
Conclusion
Arcanum: Of Steamworks and Magick Obscura is a classic role-playing game that is still enjoyed by fans today. The game’s deep and engaging world-building, its complex and challenging combat system, and its memorable characters have made it a favorite among fans of the genre. Arcanum is a must-play for any fan of role-playing games, and it is sure to provide hours of enjoyment.
Review Score
9/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
