Summary
- Release Year: 2007
- Genres: Adventure, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up, Role-playing game (RPG), Strategy
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
- Developers: 4J Studios, Triumph Studios
- Publishers: Codemasters
Overlord (2007): A Darkly Humorous and Immersive Action RPG
Released in 2007, Overlord is an action role-playing game that takes players on a unique and darkly humorous journey as the resurrected warrior known as the Overlord. Set in an alternate fantasy world, the game follows the Overlord as he commands hordes of mischievous and destructive minions to reconquer his lands and establish his lordship over its inhabitants.
Gameplay
Overlord seamlessly blends elements of action, strategy, and role-playing to create a captivating gameplay experience. Players control the Overlord from a third-person perspective, while also commanding their minions in real-time strategy fashion. The minions, known as “Gremlins,” come in various types, each with unique abilities. Players can use these minions to solve puzzles, overcome obstacles, and engage in combat with enemy forces.
The game features a unique corruption system, similar to that of the Fable games. Players’ actions and choices throughout the game affect their alignment, allowing them to be “evil… or really evil.” This system influences various aspects of the story and gameplay, including the behavior of the minions and the reactions of non-player characters.
Story
The story of Overlord is a satirical parody of traditional fantasy settings and plots. The Overlord, once a powerful warrior, has been resurrected by a group of evil sorcerers. Driven by a thirst for revenge and a desire to reclaim his former glory, the Overlord sets out to conquer the seven realms ruled by corrupt and self-serving heroes.
Along the way, the Overlord encounters a cast of quirky and memorable characters, including Gnarl, a sarcastic and witty advisor; Rose, a beautiful and enigmatic sorceress; and the seven heroes themselves, each with their own unique motivations and flaws. The game’s dark humor and witty dialogue add depth and charm to the narrative.
Key Features
- Command Hordes of Minions: Control and upgrade various types of minions, each with unique abilities, to solve puzzles, overcome obstacles, and engage in combat.
- Corruption System: Influence the story and gameplay through your actions and choices, becoming “evil… or really evil” and witnessing the impact on your minions and the world around you.
- Third-Person Action and Real-Time Strategy: Experience a seamless blend of action and strategy as you control the Overlord in third-person perspective and command your minions in real-time.
- Dark Humor and Satire: Immerse yourself in a darkly humorous and satirical take on the fantasy genre, with quirky characters, witty dialogue, and a twisted storyline.
- Epic Boss Battles: Face off against challenging and memorable boss battles, each requiring unique strategies and minion combinations to overcome.
Reception and Legacy
Overlord received critical acclaim upon its release, with praise for its innovative gameplay, dark humor, and engaging story. It was nominated for several awards, including “Game of the Year” at the Golden Joystick Awards. The game’s success led to the development of two sequels, Overlord II (2009) and Overlord: Fellowship of Evil (2015).
Overlord remains a beloved and unique entry in the action RPG genre. Its blend of humor, strategy, and action, combined with its memorable characters and satirical narrative, has won over fans worldwide. The game continues to inspire and entertain players to this day, cementing its place as a cult classic.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
