Peter Molyneux’s epic series returns with more magic, adventure and smiting.
“Fable III” takes place 50 years after the second game. The land of Albion has become more industrialized and is controlled by your brother, Logan, who has become an oppressive leader. You must help lead a revolution to liberate the kingdom. Along the way, you’ll make choices that determine if you’ll be a kind and benevolent king or a horrible tyrant focused solely on personal gain.
The series is known for its long, drawn-out gameplay that is filled with a generous mix of both story-driven quests and side missions. However, this rendition comes in noticeably shorter — it can be beaten in less than 20 hours.
Battles have gotten a few upgrades. There are fewer spells available to cast — just fire, ice, lighting, force push and whirlwind — though later in the game, they can be combined to do more damage. Other spells such as summon dead and slow time have become potions. Special hero weapons will change appearance based on what baddies you kill with them. The closest thing to a major change in the fighting system is the addition of charged attacks called flourishes, which get special animations.
One noticeable issue with the fighting is it becomes a bit too easy further along in the game. Yes, it may feel like you are becoming a hero, but it’s too easy to spam magic attacks.
The best part of the game, though, is the dialogue. The star-studded cast is lead by John Cleese, who voices your snarky, wisecracking butler. Simon Pegg and Ben Kingsley also lend their vocals. Witty and funny sayings abound and will have you laughing out loud, with the most memorable coming from little garden gnome statues that must be tracked down and destroyed.
Fans of the previous games might be a little disappointed with some aspects, but overall, it is another solid game from Lionhead Studios. – Greg Prince
