Fable II E3 Preview

ActionTrip has gotten around to posting their E3-based preview of Lionhead Studios' Fable sequel.
The pet dog was, as expected, in the demo as well. The loyalty of your dog really seems like something players will become used to very fast. It's not there to piss on potted plants and to be taken for walkies. It can sense danger, point towards hidden treasures and even protect your character when the going gets tough. What ever you do, where ever you go in the game, your dog is going to stand by your side. If it lags behind it may have suffered an injury and you'll could see it limping in agony, trying to keep up. Nonetheless, it always finds a way to its master; even if it takes forever. If you're not a ruthless, sadistic bastard that relishes animal torture, you can always tend to its wounds.

So, when all's said and done, the game appears to be more about exploring freely and interacting with the huge world Lionhead created, as opposed to just rushing through the campaign to finish the story. There are numerous activities for your character, in addition to a number of fun mini-games. Perfecting your skills can be fun. Being a blacksmith, for instance, means that you can take the time to improve your technique of weapon making - also done via a mini-game. As before, you can choose to be good or evil and people will react according to your deeds. During the game, a bard may follow you, singing songs about your endeavors. If you were good, his songs will be full of praise, but if you've been bad the lyrics will be different.