Avencast: Rise Of The Mage Starts Off Slow But Is Worth the Wait

This game starts off a bit slowly. You begin as a student mage at a magic academy that seems suspiciously like Hogwarts. Once you get past this section of not-quite-plagiarism however, the game takes a hard turn to more serious pursuits as you leave the confines of the school. The post school plot is largely what you would expect from an RPG. Expect to be saving the world from hoards of evil demons.

This game is mostly combat oriented, as you tear through hoards of similar looking minor villains. This combat however, is a bit different as you will be spending a great deal of time in ranged combat. Since you can dodge, and most of your enemies are armed with ranged attacks, you will need them as well. Expect to do a mix of dodging and shooting off spells. If you are a fan of hack and slash, then you won’t enjoy this experience. There is also a strong puzzle element to this game that spices up an otherwise standard set of quests.

Each time that you achieve a new level you will be assigned a certain number of points. These points can be assigned to buying spells in any of the 3 spell areas, blood, soul or summoning. What you choose is a matter of preference, depending on how underhanded you are feeling. A mix would be best though.

The game uses WASD controls - which are not always popular with PC gamers - but once you get used to them (or past that limitation), you will be able to enjoy the game. If you are staunchly against using WASD, then you may want to pass.

The graphics in this game are less than stellar, but they do get the job done. The characters are a little bit boxy, which can be an annoyance. To be honest, at some point you will be sure that you have seen this background before. Then you will have that feeling a second and third time. The graphics are serviceable and can get you through the game, but they won’t impress you at all.

While this game has disappointing graphics and limited appeal, the controls, the game's storyline, and the inventive combat system will be enough to make the game worth playing. The puzzles will also add to your overall experience. It really becomes a matter of personal choice.