customization?

[dragonbane]

I have recently read a review on this game from Computer Games Magazine and I'm considering purchasing it. I was wondering how customizable the characters are in this game, as compaired to - Baldur's Gate and how character developement works (gaining attributes/abilities)?

Any feedback would be helpful

[AngusThermopole]

The game is unique in that whatever means of destruction you choose to dish out, melee, range, or magical, your character will level up automatically with the skills needed to become a killing machine. There are no classes, races, or skills to customize at the beginning of the game like in the BG series. The game is limited in that aspect.

However, you can customize your player and NPCs (up to eight) to any imaginable levels within the games criteria. If you use a melee weapon then your strength will increase at a higher rate than dexterity and intelligence. Of course, your melee skill will also increase. At any time, you can change to a ranged weapon or use spells and the corresponding skill (dexterity and intelligence) will level up accordingly. There are no class or race restrictions.

Another divergence is in how experience is meted out between party members. It is based on damaged done by each character. If one character is doing the lion's share of the punishment, then that character will level up faster than the others.

Finally, the game cannot really be compared with the BG series as it is oriented more to action and less to role playing.

[Skuld]

Here's what I've gathered from playing the demo. I can tell you right off the bat that there's no character creation other than the look of your guy/gal. But there are three stats: Str, Int, and Dex; 2 weapon types: melee, and ranged; and two magic types: nature and combat. Here's how it goes... you start out with 10 in each stat, and at lvl 0 for weapons and magic, and as you use your weapons and stat attributes more you gain lvls in them. And depending on your levels and stats you get a class. I just finished the demo and my stats were str 12, dex 12, int 12, and was lvl 3 melee, 2 ranged, 4 nature magic.... and I was labeled a Cavalier. I dunno if that confused you or maybe helped you out, but I hope it was the latter of the two.