Cert: 18
Platform: Xbox 360, Playstation 3, PC
Genre: RPG
Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is set two hundred years after the events of Elder Scrolls IV and it follows the return of dragons to a fragmented and decaying empire. It is also a game that is threatening to turn this reviewer into hermit who spends all his time hunched over his controller glaring wearily at his ever-expanding list of quests. Gamers looking for a meaty title will relish Skyrim, particularly those who love involved single-player RPGs rather than frenetic multiplayer shooter. It’s possible to spend up to a hundred hours playing Skyrim’s quests and challenges, to say nothing of the potential for second and third playthroughs.
Players of the previous Elder scrolls games will be satisfied with the way Skyrim is steeped in lore of previous titles and those who have ventured through the wastelands of the last two Fallouts will find Skyrim’s mechanics somewhat familiar. A new graphics engine powers Skyrim and the game is as much geared towards those new to the open ended Elder Scrolls series as it is towards series veterans. This makes it possible for players to immerse themselves in Skyrim even if they’ve never closed an Oblivion gate or stepped foot in Morrowind. The PC version boasts better graphics and (and mods) but no matter the platform the game offers a visually impressive experience, the snowfall effects warranting a special mention. The levelling system has also been vastly improved on previous Bethseda titles and the end game experience is as challenging and diverse as the first few hours.
It’s not all perfect. The quirks and annoyances of Bethesda’s previous offerings are present; the most notable example being the load-screens when appear when players transition from one building or area to the next. There’s also the usual raft of minor but noticeable bugs, which the developers will slowly patch over the next few months.
That said, Skyrim is a triumph that every gamer deserves to play and one which many (this reviewer included) will declare as their game of the year.
Buy or Rent: Buy
Graphics: 5/5
Gameplay: 5/5
Replay Value: 5/5
Overall: 5/5
Reviewed by: Bryan Collins
