Like Crackers and Milk: its all in the game.

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My Wife has a saying, “When you are really hungry and have not eaten for a long time then; you find a box of crackers; they seem like the best cracker in the world”. Granted, this may be the very case I have experienced playing Fallen Earth. But then again, my wife plays Pogo.

Nevertheless, with PC specs in-between Minimum requirements and recommended requirements I was able to obtain a buddy key. Getting into the game was acceptable with registration and downloading time along with patching. I had accomplished a fair amount of research about the game including the forums video’s so I had an idea what I was walking into prior to playing the game. I refuse to use the term, “this game is not for everyone” because I do not know any game that is. Since there are numerous reviews already out there the following post gives my Pro’s and Con’s of my experience.

Pro’s:

The ability to set-up the UI three ways. I chose fantasy in order to eliminate further learning curve that was discussed in other reviews.

Tutorial: They have released an extended training area which has been extremely helpful in learning this game. That is to say that the mobs have been challenging enough to allow me to learn new weapons yet, not allow for easy kills. A good balance in the early stages that make learning fun. Ultimately, I had the time to learn everything I needed before running off into unknown areas.

Combat: I do enjoy the concept of FPS action which this game does give which includes third person view. The ability to attack in ether mode is available with the turn of the mouse wheel. Since I do enjoy both views in combat this a big plus in early game play.

Community: The community so far has been excellent and I even made contact with a GM regarding an in game quest which he answered completely. This is the first time a GM has given the time to explain game operations to me from any game.

No restrictions with the buddy key: excess to all game mechanics and operations has been a real plus and neat addition to helping me experience the game overall…before purchase.

Character customization: I am not one to put a lot of time into make a toon unless the features I make are present at some point. In the early goings of this game the customization has been exhibited including, but not limited to, tattoos, body perching and body extensions. Not the best customization of all games but, one that does allow characters to look different.

Cons:

Learning curve: Perhaps because this is a new game type the learning curve to this early point has been rather steep forcing me to “read the manual”. Ok, so I am one of those who want to get into the action fastly.

Graphics: Arguably so, and with my low end PC, there are better looking “polished landscape” games. This is not to say that the scenery is not appropriate…it is. While other reviews would indicate otherwise, I think a little more work could be done in this area.

Role Playing: The story line is good however, in the early stages of the game they could have added a touch of what I am fighting for. A reason to kill this race or animal that makes a difference in the outcome of my existence. The need to group up, in my opinion, should be greater at the very beginning points of the game.

Mob AI: Debatable, this is a game demanding a mid-high rig and with that comes excepted AI in combat. In the case of Fallen Earth the AI is low as they do not appear to run or take cover in battle. An issue that does bring the game play down some, at least for me. The action would be much more enjoyable if the AI even bounced around some. Maybe even a pre-death retreat to make the player work some.

Bugs: I know the game is new and that they are fixing problems rapidly however, bugs such as mounting your horse in mid-air next to the mount should not be there. While the situation accrues at times, it is somewhat comical to see a player sitting on air.

Arguable additions/issues:

Access to mounts early in the game: The ability to obtain a mount early in the game has been an experience of the double edged sword. It has been convenient to mount up yet, feels like cheating in a way, that is, I am use to working up to a mount.

Lag: I have watched the chat channels and seen complaints of lag but not have experienced it myself. Living in the Midwest with a good connection even with a wireless router has provided a good connection for me.

Overall experience:

My recommendation to friends interested about this game leaves me to share this advice. If you enjoyed AO and played Fallout 3 to its end game you will like Fallen Earth. However, I am cautioned to complete the buddy key prior to final decision as my wives words continue to echo in my head, “is this Memorex or just a cracker.

SEABeast