Return to Krondor

The Good
1998 was quite a year for the CRPG (Computer Role Playing Game). Baldur's Gate as well as Return To Krondor were released. These two epic CRPGS would usher in a new age of CRPG goodness. Of those two aforementioned games, RTK was by far the better. Indeed the long awaited sequel to 1996's epic Betrayal at Krondor.

RTK is far more linear than its processor, but still a most excellent game. There are some similarities of course, to BAK, such as an epic story based in Midkemia, co-written by bestselling fantasy author Raymond E. Feist. The combat system is also similar, it's basically a turn based tactical system, and to use the vernacular it rocks. A unique "bonus" system, randomly grants either the hero's or villain’s a round bonus, such as Hero's Refreshed, or Villain’s Rally.

As mentioned the game play is linear, explore, combat, explore some more. Though there are some fun side quests to undertake and to break up the otherwise linear game play.

The story of course is excellent; it truly feels like you are part of one of Mr. Feist's tales. And in true fantasy novel fashion a simple task leads the hero's into a terrible plot that endangers the Kingdom of the Isles and the very Gods!

The music and sound have to be seen to believed. The epic score is up to if not surpassing most Hollywood movies. The voice work and sound effects are also high-quality.(Some of the voice actors you may even recognize from other games and TV. shows)

The Graphics are (still) amazing. With the inhabitants of Midkemia done in polygons, while the locales are done with down right awe inspiring pre-rendered backdrops.

Nice cinematics are also sprinkled throughout. The game is short (25 hrs 1st time) but for those few hours you will be addicted. And when it's over you will swear that you have visited Midkemia, and had a hand in an epic adventure.

The Bad
The ending while excellent implies a sequel, which I fear will never see the light of day, perhaps in book form?

Not for novice CRPGers.

The Bottom Line
One of the best CRPGs ever made; if you missed it what's the excuse? The game can be found (eBay, Amazon) for under $20. And even new computers can run it with no trouble. I just played through it again on my new PC that is less than six months old.

Fans of rpgs, fantasy, and books will enjoy this one. If you are a Feist fan you owe it to yourself to play this game!