Platforms: Xbox 360 PC
Developers: Lion Head Studios
Players: Single Player / Coop Multiplayer / Online Play
Six years ago (do you notice we always do this time thing as an intro…it’s very classy journalism!) Big Blue Box a developer under the umbrella of Lion Head Studios released Fable, an action role-playing game for the Xbox and PC and so began the revolution of the genre and a brand new world of gaming was born.
This was then followed by Fable II in 2008 and once more the game pioneered and paved the way for all those following under the genre of action roleplaying. Now two years later we are coming to terms with an all new world under the guise of Fable III. We venture forth into the lands of Albion once more but there is something foul lurking in Albion and we’re not sure if it’s the corrupt King or something deeper…under the skin of this glossy game.
Plot
Fifty years after the events of Fable II and the destruction of the Spire, Albion’s last hero has passed away and the power to rule has been handed down to his children, his oldest son, Logan rules with a tyrannical iron fist. In a new age of industrial revolution and expansion the people of Albion are repressed by their ruler and life is harsh and hope does not exist.
You take on the role of the prince or princess, brother/sister to Logan and unlike your cold brother you see the plight of the people and understand that a change is needed. When Logan offers you your first choice it isn’t one that you can make lightly, the lives of those who led a demonstration or the life of the one you love – a harsh choice and one that will impact on the very fibre of your character.
A revolution is needed and aided by your loyal butler Jasper and your mentor Walter, you and you alone must walk the Road to Rule, discover your true power and restore harmony to Albion.
Gameplay
So much has changed in Fable III that it feels like a completely different game to the original and even Fable II. First and foremost the controls are a lot more responsive and guiding your character around the world of Albion feels a lot easier and less sluggish than previous games. Melee, Firearms and Magic are still at your disposal, so brandish that sword, load your pistol and conjure a firestorm to defeat the hundreds of foes that stand in your path.
Unlike Fable II where you had to level each technique and gather exp orbs, you accumulate exp and after collecting enough you are granted a guild seal. These guild seals are used to purchase and upgrade your attacks, your social skills, work ethic and even the colour of your characters clothing.
Combat feels more challenging and while it is still a matter of bashing the X Y or B button enough times there seems to be a bit more skill required and critical blows are featured with slow motion strikes (much to our amusement).
Interacting with the people of Albion is more important than ever, bringing them to your side in the revolution is crucial to the success of your mission. However with it being such an integral part, the new changes are somewhat annoying and are a serious letdown. You can still woo or strike fear into the people but doing so has become awkward and clumsy. A system that was almost perfect in Fable II has been replaced by a simpler looking and bland meter at the bottom of the screen. Our biggest problem with the game is the AI of your trusted canine companion, who doesn’t seem to realise whether he is coming or going, realising what a chest is AFTER you opened it and almost ignorant of dig spots and he can’t even fetch!?
Limited Edition
If you are willing to fork out the extra €10 for the limited edition copy of the game you are not going to be disappointed. Exclusive downloadable content including a house, different breeds of doggy friends and weaponry are all yours. On top of all that you can get your hands on a special case complete with secret compartment containing a Fable themed deck of cards.
Overall
This is yet another great game from Lionhead Studios BUT we feel that when you are on a good roll (like they were with Fable II) there is no need to continually overhaul and change every detail of a game. We as gamers often gripe that sequels never contain enough new changes or mods well that’s not the case with Fable III. There is no harm in sticking with some of the old ways and incorporating them into your new shinier game.
We can’t finish this review without mentioning the astounding performances of the voice actors with many big named performers throwing their talents into the cast of characters including, John Cleese, Sir Ben Kingsley, Simon Pegg and Tia Dalma.
On a whole this is one game we are not let down by and we are sure you won’t be either, putting aside the small problems we have with the game, this one that every adventure lover needs to own and is definitely a strong contender for game of the year!
Good Points
Spectacular visuals
Engaging Storyline
Serious Longevity
Bad Points
Poor AI
We miss some of the older methods of play
Rating
8.5/10
