Eschalon: Book III - Preview @ COG

Canadian Online Gamers previews the beta version of Eschalon: Book III.

The graphics are presented to you in an isometric view and definitely harkens back to games like Ultima Online. I liked the overall look, and everything is well-animated too. They also use day and night cycles to their full advantage, because when night comes it gets very dark, so it’s handy to have torches on you at all times. Before I learned this lesson, I found myself wandering around in the dark barely being able to see, and then getting jumped by some creature!

The game’s audio surprised me with just how good it was and how suited it was to the game. I was treated to some really good music as I traveled the world. Not to be outdone, the sound effects work nicely too, and fit well with everything you interact with.

I have to admit I was surprised by my experience with Eschalon: Book III. It was a nice trip down memory lane, and makes me want to go check out the first two games in the series. Fans who want an experience that may bring them back to earlier days of PC role-playing games should check this game out.  It’s scheduled to be released on February 2014!