Summary
- Release Year: 1994
- Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: DOS, Mac
- Developers: New World Computing
- Publishers: New World Computing
Might and Magic: World of Xeen: A Timeless Classic of Exploration and Adventure
Released in 1994, Might and Magic: World of Xeen is a groundbreaking role-playing game that stands as a testament to the imaginative power of the genre. Developed by New World Computing and published by 3DO, World of Xeen is an ambitious combination of two previous Might and Magic games, Clouds of Xeen and Darkside of Xeen, seamlessly merging them into a single epic adventure.
A World of Enchantment and Intrigue
World of Xeen transports players to the mythical land of Xeen, a realm divided and oppressed by two tyrannical overlords: Lord Xeen and Lord Alamar. As the hero of the story, you embark on a perilous quest to overthrow these evil rulers and restore balance to the world.
The game’s world is vast and diverse, spanning two distinct regions: Clouds of Xeen and Darkside of Xeen. Clouds of Xeen is a vibrant and colorful land, home to lush forests, sparkling rivers, and towering mountains. Darkside of Xeen, on the other hand, is a desolate and treacherous realm, filled with shadowy swamps, volcanic wastelands, and sinister dungeons.
Two Games in One
One of the most unique features of World of Xeen is its dual-game structure. Players can seamlessly travel between Clouds of Xeen and Darkside of Xeen, doubling the size of the world available for exploration. This innovative design allows for a truly epic and expansive adventure, with each region offering its own unique challenges, quests, and rewards.
Enhanced with CD-ROM Technology
The CD-ROM release of World of Xeen marked a significant technological advancement for the series. For the first time, the game featured fully digitized speech, enhancing the immersion and storytelling experience. The voice acting is top-notch, with each character delivering their lines with conviction and emotion.
A Deep and Rewarding RPG System
World of Xeen features a deep and rewarding role-playing system that allows players to create and customize their own party of adventurers. There are eight different character classes to choose from, each with their own unique abilities and skills. Players can also choose from a variety of races, including humans, elves, dwarves, and hobbits.
The game’s combat system is turn-based and tactical, requiring players to carefully consider their positioning and abilities. There is a wide range of spells and abilities to master, and players must learn to use them strategically to overcome their foes.
A Legacy of Excellence
Might and Magic: World of Xeen was a critical and commercial success, selling over 400,000 copies worldwide. It was praised for its innovative dual-game structure, immersive world, and deep role-playing system. The game has since been ported to a variety of platforms, including Windows, Mac, and mobile devices.
World of Xeen has had a lasting impact on the RPG genre, influencing countless other games that followed. Its legacy continues to this day, with many fans considering it to be one of the greatest RPGs ever made.
A Timeless Masterpiece
Nearly three decades after its initial release, Might and Magic: World of Xeen remains a timeless masterpiece of exploration and adventure. Its vast world, deep role-playing system, and innovative dual-game structure continue to captivate players of all ages. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, World of Xeen is an essential experience for any RPG enthusiast.
Review Score
9/10