Avencast - Review @ GameZone

GameZone has posted an indepth review of Lighthouse Interactive's new title,  Avencast:Rise of the Mage, giving it a score of 7.8/10 and referring to it as  "...role playing and strategic gaming wrapped up in one":

In some aspects, Avencast is a very limiting game. You only get one character and customization options are not overly abundant. The story is linear and the quest-driven gameplay will have you moving through it at a regulated pace. But the Lighthouse/Clockstone title does juxtapose some of the common with intelligent gameplay mechanics...

...The game plays in an isometric viewpoint, but the camera is not always your friend. You will discover the laborious nature of moving the camera about when you are fighting near the start of the game. Coupled with the fact that you actually have to click on the target to cast a ranged spell at it – even while it is moving – and you have a scheme that is less than perfect. Leading the opponent does parlay into defensive capabilities as well. When you are attacked with a ranged skill, you can move and avoid taking damage. Ah, dodging – it is indeed nice to see the magic missile go by the wayside and give over to the reflexive ability to avoid damage. This makes for a much more strategic game. You can use environmental elements for shielding, as well...

...Avencast has some RPG clichés in it, but it still manages to emerge as a nice bit of armchair gaming. This is a game with some solid concepts that will not only provide a bit of challenge, but a fair share of entertainment as well.