...... in spite of all of these new titles I've been trying I still can't tear myself away from X-Com...... this is by far the best strategy game I've played in ages.... I want to quit everything else in life until I see this one through-LoL... it is THAT addicting..... took down a cloaked craft today and recovered a very interesting device... gee golly, I never though western sci-fi could prove so absorbing for me
Given your distaste for games involving guns and war this is a pretty strong statement about how engaging the game is. :P
I've almost finished with God of War III and really enjoying it, though -- and this will seem an odd statement about a God of War game -- there's a bit too much combat for my taste. Don't get me wrong, I understand that the combat is a fundamental part of God of War's formula, but there are times when I think 'okay, okay, enough with the combat, I want to get back to getting things done!'
Etrian Odyssey III continues to be awesome, though I am finding backtracking through each level of the labyrinth every time I descend tedious. I've just entered the second stratum and I'm hoping to find an exit to the surface when I map out the first floor. Still, I continue to find the pretty environments and mapping process quite relaxing. Also, I find the
IGN review of Etrian Odyssey 3 rather bizarre and hope they find someone better to review IV when it comes out.
For example: "Channeling the days of pen and paper RPGs, Etrian Odyssey also utilizes a grid-based map on the lower DS screen for you to track your progress. Unfortunately this game adopts such a "hardcore means not explaining anything" mindset that it doesn't teach you how to use the map – the most important tool at your disposal. Sure, there's a basic intro, but the legend is never explained and there are some pretty random icons included (a hand? Scissors? The letter "E"? What does it all mean?!)." But...but....but....getting to customize your map anyway you want with your own legend is
the point! Also, I use the scissor icon to indicate places where there are plants I can chop or pluck. Makes sense to me....