Age of Conan: Unchained

 PC
User Score
7.3

Mixed or average reviews- based on 831 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 536 out of 831
  2. Mixed: 103 out of 831
  3. Negative: 192 out of 831
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  1. KurtS.
    May 24, 2008
    1
    Instances, worthless RP, boobs, 24/7 bugs and graphic issues, unskilled PvP, unbalanced PvP, very poor graphic style, very poor response on problems.
  2. MortenL.
    May 25, 2008
    10
    Very fun. I've always liked mmos, but this takes it to a new level.
  3. CS
    May 25, 2008
    9
    Great game! I love the battle system and the graphics are gorgeous, tons of fun to play....only downside is the system requirements, definately a keeper!
  4. JohnL.
    May 26, 2008
    4
    Super boring quests in the beginning of the game. So boring in fact my party of 4 people all unsubscribed after a few hours of play!!! The quests are mostly "open" instances so if you need to get, let's say, 15 jewels from 15 alligators and another party that is in your "shared" instance has killed them all your party has to wait for them to respawn and unrealistically they will just Super boring quests in the beginning of the game. So boring in fact my party of 4 people all unsubscribed after a few hours of play!!! The quests are mostly "open" instances so if you need to get, let's say, 15 jewels from 15 alligators and another party that is in your "shared" instance has killed them all your party has to wait for them to respawn and unrealistically they will just pop up in thin air. The mini-map is terrible for tracking your party members and almost worse for finding locations of quests. The quest journal is not well laid out. The larger maps show NO party members at all and you would like to use the larger maps since the mini-map can't be resized and is as small as a quarter on larger wide screen monitors. Better scripted private instanced quests and a much better quest journal and mapping system and this game might be worth the cash for our group of players. Back to DDO Stormreach for now which still has the fastest and best battle system to date in my opinion.… Expand
  5. JBerry
    May 26, 2008
    10
    Great fun. Much more action packed than WoW, and a lot more promise than WoW. It's got the PvP sieges and what-not. This will be THE mmo to play.
  6. JamesG.
    May 26, 2008
    10
    This game is absolutely amazing. Best graphics that this genre has seen (even tops many top quality FPS graphics). The sound is remarkable. The music itself is a massive feat. This game definitely redefines the MMO genre. No longer is combat "click on this guy and spam 1,2,1,2." You actually have to side step, attack the body, etc. WoW has some serious competition.
  7. BryanC.
    May 26, 2008
    8
    An above average game that has a lot of bugs that need to be fix.
  8. JeffJ.
    May 26, 2008
    5
    Over Hyped and not worth playing for any extend period. The game won't have any legs.
  9. BenA.
    May 26, 2008
    10
    Simply put an amazing experience, people will be playing in years to come. 400k subs to start is very encouraging.
  10. CJ
    May 26, 2008
    5
    Graphics are ok, but where is the mature content? Outside of a couple veiled adult references this varies little for any other fantasy mmorpg. The battle system is pretty lame. I'm canceling my account and going back to WOW and EQ2.
  11. J
    May 26, 2008
    5
    Looks pretty and cool for the first few days, but once you get to the "meat" of the game, it's clear Age of Conan is horribly buggy and unfinished. Another case of beta software being sold in stores.
  12. TankA.
    May 26, 2008
    10
    This game is way much better compared to wow. Bye bye blizzard
  13. DanC
    May 26, 2008
    5
    Like most software AoC seems as if it was rushed out the door. Many bugs and drops are inappropriate for the level (actually too high a lvl) . Interface graphics are 5 years or more behind the times but world graphics are OK. Game bluescreened after install but then played OK. Got caught in a quest loop cinematic that eventually worked itself out but I had to end task multiple times then Like most software AoC seems as if it was rushed out the door. Many bugs and drops are inappropriate for the level (actually too high a lvl) . Interface graphics are 5 years or more behind the times but world graphics are OK. Game bluescreened after install but then played OK. Got caught in a quest loop cinematic that eventually worked itself out but I had to end task multiple times then restart the game. I hope it gets better and I expect it will. The lack of being able to find vendors is frustrating in the early lvl island but I'm hoping this gets better when I finally get to a major city. The quest toons voice cinematics are nice. The game has potential but it's not there yet.… Expand
  14. ThomasF.
    May 26, 2008
    10
    Great to see an mmorpg that places a firm emphasis on the plot and character progression without mindless grind. The combat system is involving, though may take some players time to get used to it. Easily amongst the better if not the best mmorpg out there. Only downsides at the moment are graphics and server based issues, but hopefully they'll be patched out pronto!
  15. JohnD.
    May 26, 2008
    4
    This looks and feels very much like EQ2 which I hated. The graphics are not good. The sound effects are poor. It's also very buggy. Doesn't hold a candle to WoW even though I'm really tired of WoW.
  16. JJ
    May 27, 2008
    7
    Theres a whole lot to like about AoC, and some things to not like. Pros: immersive world, very nice graphics, combat is fun and has great nuances, good voice acting, great animations of players and creatures, cool magic, lots of levels to advance through, PVE and PVP, a myriad of quests, lots and lots of variety in the world including towns and different themes, great artwork, fantastic Theres a whole lot to like about AoC, and some things to not like. Pros: immersive world, very nice graphics, combat is fun and has great nuances, good voice acting, great animations of players and creatures, cool magic, lots of levels to advance through, PVE and PVP, a myriad of quests, lots and lots of variety in the world including towns and different themes, great artwork, fantastic architecture. What I more want to talk about are the cons: the game is a MMO, yet a big part of playing the game is doing quests with NPCs so its a hybrid single player / multiplayer game. Yes others can join you in your quests but only if they have the prerequisite quests completed. Most other players are on different quests, too, so they don't want to join you usually. For PVE gameplay, this is a single player game with other people running around in it. In my opinion, it's not a truely focused multiplayer game for PVE (player vs environment). The game user interface needs improving. Also my character targets group members and not the hostiles, which is stubborn to get him to target back onto the foes. Also you'll see really great looking equipment being worn by NPCs that you can't get or use. Maybe that will change with new patches and updates by Funcom. Right now the servers are experiencing hacks that affect everyone connected. I think this is their top priority. Another con to this game is that the quests send you back and forth in the same area so much that seeing the same scenery over and over gets old. There are no dynamically or randomly created areas like dungeons so the scenery in this game gets stale. If you like MMORPGs then you certainly need to check out AoC, yes! But it has problems and I'm currently questioning its longevity. The first few days I played this I was in awe but that is now wearing off because I don't like seeing the same place over and over and over again. Just to advance out of the starting town (Tortage), you must complete one specific quest (Destiny) but there are many quests to do. Its not clear which quest you must do to escape Tortage. I think you must do the Destiny Quest in single player but I'm not sure. After 35 hours of gameplay in Tortage just trying to escape it, the town felt like a prison. I used a hidden quick-escape quest to get out of Tortage and I don't want to go back. Potentially AoC is a legendary game, but I don't think its there yet. Time will tell. Its a rather linear game for being a MMO. Is this linear and quest based gemplay a decision by funcom so that they can bring it to the masses on the x360? I don't know for sure.… Expand
  17. TormodS.
    May 27, 2008
    9
    Did not play WOW so I am new to this genre. I love this game so far. Best PC game I have played for a long time!
  18. JasonJ
    May 27, 2008
    9
    PROS: Graphics are very nice; pretty and gritty-- like The Witcher, everything looks realistic; no space goats and crystal cities, no weapons or armor with laser beams shooting out out of them. 'Mature' quests; no silly stuff like WoW. Example: 'These guys raped my wife and crippled me, so go kill 50 of them and bring me their teeth so I can make a necklace out ofPROS: Graphics are very nice; pretty and gritty-- like The Witcher, everything looks realistic; no space goats and crystal cities, no weapons or armor with laser beams shooting out out of them. 'Mature' quests; no silly stuff like WoW. Example: 'These guys raped my wife and crippled me, so go kill 50 of them and bring me their teeth so I can make a necklace out of them'. Generally engaging low-fantasy storyline. Tons of quests to do, especially in the starter area (I don't know what game the reviewer James P is playing). Combat with real-time skill selection and, of course, gory fatalities: decapitations, impalings, face-melting, etc. How the quest map functions should be the new RPG standard. Lots of cool classes to choose from. AoC has learned from other MMOs and may be the first to get healing and healing classes right-- they are not just gimpy healbots. CONS: Very steep hardware requirements; it's a shader-heavy cross platform game clearly not optimized for PC; 8800 series or better gpu and dual-core cpu required for a decent experience for anyone with visual standards. Graphical glitches; lots of serious clipping issues that result in flashing textures on player/armor models. A week after launch, major features and other components of the game are simply not functional-- tradeposts and some character skills, for instance, are not available. The 'social' element of AoC seems lacking-- is it single player or multiplayer? UI has highpoints (like the quest map), but is otherwise lacking functionality and isn't aesthetically pleasing. Vagueness: no numbers to crunch concerning your skills-- it's hard to tell exactly what they do. It is not a truly open-world MMORPG; it is completely instanced like Guild Wars, and it lacks the forced party creation pre-zone that helps the social element in GW. In the starter zone (1-20), everything has voice acting; once you leave, it stops and NPCs become mute with non-moving mouths (which is, ironically, very much like GW used to be.) YET TO BE SEEN: Raid dungeon difficulty and complexity-- is everything just a tank and spank? Will the guild cities and sieges be a satisfying experience? What can you do at lvl 80? Is the game basically over then? SUMMARY: It's a pretty good, fun game that feels more singleplayer than multiplayer. It is far from 'rock-solid'; it is wonky even after 5 years in development. It will fare better on consoles for two reasons: 1. It will simply run better with fewer problems on console hardware. 2. The combat system that requires multiple button-mashes will be easier for people with handheld controllers. Is it a WoW-killer? I doubt it. Is it a decent alternative for people tired of WoW cartoony-ness and endless grinds? Yep.
    I'm giving it a score of 9, but my guess is that most professional reviews will range from 7-9, and the game will eventually score in the mid-to-low 8 range here on Metacritic, depending on how generous the individual reviewers are feeling that day.    … Expand
  19. MaxC.
    May 27, 2008
    9
    This is a pretty impressive game. It has its share of faults and glitches, but those are being addressed very quickly with patches every two or three days. Age of Conan is a refreshing breeze in the MMO market with enough of a difference to still feel new despite doing similiar quests (collect wolf pelts, kill this many enemies, etc.). It has a unique way of continuing the story line with This is a pretty impressive game. It has its share of faults and glitches, but those are being addressed very quickly with patches every two or three days. Age of Conan is a refreshing breeze in the MMO market with enough of a difference to still feel new despite doing similiar quests (collect wolf pelts, kill this many enemies, etc.). It has a unique way of continuing the story line with a Single Player aspect that uses your MMO character. I've put several hours into the game and I'm still enjoying setting up new characters to try out new classes, but I can't wait for the mid to end game PvP Guild Battles that feature Guilds trying to destroy or take over other Guild's Keeps. So far, so good, with minor problems that are being addressed as you read this.… Expand
  20. ErikT
    May 27, 2008
    9
    Two thumbs up for Age of Conan!! Some minor UI issues, but apart from that a superb game!
  21. CarstenS.
    May 27, 2008
    10
    This is a very fun game. The quests are intriguing, and the combat is a bar raiser. The setting is true to the Conan universe. Sound is fantastic and graphics stunning.
  22. JasonL
    May 27, 2008
    10
    WOW beater!! played wow for 18 months, Conan kicks A**!! what a great game-long overdue but well worth the wait.awsome!!!
  23. Ole-JosteinJohansen
    May 27, 2008
    10
    Fantastic game. so far I have played alot and it seems it just gets more and more interesting.
  24. RonmelPolarbears
    May 27, 2008
    10
    This game will grow as hell. It rocks big time.
  25. GJ
    May 27, 2008
    10
    Great game. Those who played WoW will feel right at home but with allot more tools at their fingertips.
  26. JamesW
    May 27, 2008
    10
    Brilliant Game, not very clear when and where you need to go but still a gripping experience.
  27. MR
    May 28, 2008
    9
    The gameplay in this game is its main attribute, as well as the graphics,music and game lore. The only thing that I'm not pleased about it so far is the few bugs and that not all content is unlocked so far. Nevertheless is awesome! Very addictive
  28. Tony
    May 28, 2008
    9
    Beautiful graphics and compelling plot. Game feels a little linear for first 20 lvls (as far as I've got) but hoping it will open up.
  29. AlexD
    May 28, 2008
    9
    Only reason I can't give it a 10 is the buggy client at launch, but honestly this game is very solid; lots of depth into classes and how they perform, graphics and audio track are astounding on good hardware (yes the hardware requirements are stiff, this is not WoW), quests and dynamics are pretty involving, so is the combat system.
  30. SteveM.
    May 28, 2008
    9
    Great game, awesome graphics, zones were frustrating at first, but its great now. there are a few things that i would like to see added. but right now its on the right path to a legendary status.
  31. NichloasC.
    May 29, 2008
    9
    A very promising MMORPG with an immense potental. Definitely a jump into the next-gen and certainly worth your while. Certain minor technical issues still need ironing out though.
  32. ConnorF
    May 29, 2008
    10
    Not trying to make comparisons, but I feel the need to compare this game to WoW - I've played the game for 3 years and I uninstalled after playing the first 20 levels of age of conan. I found myself having much more fun in game than I ever did in WoW. The combat destroys any other MMO hands down - it is in depth and never gets boring. The graphics are truly amazing. Every feature of Not trying to make comparisons, but I feel the need to compare this game to WoW - I've played the game for 3 years and I uninstalled after playing the first 20 levels of age of conan. I found myself having much more fun in game than I ever did in WoW. The combat destroys any other MMO hands down - it is in depth and never gets boring. The graphics are truly amazing. Every feature of this game stands out and sets the bar for MMO's.… Expand
  33. MartinD.
    May 29, 2008
    9
    The best MMO you can buy=== Age of Conan stunned me from the first minute i played it. The graphics and music are awesome, well designed and detailed. You feel like a warrior in a real movie. The area around you is full of live and motion and you can climb, jump, swim....you can use the environment for your advantage. The music sounds like a Howard Shore-soundtrack, and fight-, npc- andThe best MMO you can buy=== Age of Conan stunned me from the first minute i played it. The graphics and music are awesome, well designed and detailed. You feel like a warrior in a real movie. The area around you is full of live and motion and you can climb, jump, swim....you can use the environment for your advantage. The music sounds like a Howard Shore-soundtrack, and fight-, npc- and enemy-fx (like from a tiger) sounding so perfect, dont miss to use a 5.1 soundsystem. The battlesystem is simple...attack and fight, u dont need to lock the enemies just move and slash.A lot of nice fatality-moves (about 50 i heard), when u used a combo near the mobs death. There are so many quests to do, with characters from the original Conan-Books.And not every quest is like the last one.The PvP system is so nice, you can build cities(!) and attack and dstroy your enemy-guilds city to ash. There are a lot of other things to introduce..so...then get the game and start!!… Expand
  34. RupertB.
    May 29, 2008
    9
    Great roleplay experience, great graphics, nice character development. Extremly action based, playes like WoW on adrenaline. On the downside, a view localisation errors and a instanced (as opposed to a seamless) world. GREAT GAME.
  35. CGL
    May 30, 2008
    6
    If it wasn't very buggy and unfinished I might have given this game a higher score but AoC does nothing to live up to it's primary competition. Bugs fixed and issues aside the game is very instanced and plays like a console port, NOT a MMORPG. None of the official reviews go past lvl 25 which is the only finished/polished part of the game. Leveling in AoC is alot like real life. If it wasn't very buggy and unfinished I might have given this game a higher score but AoC does nothing to live up to it's primary competition. Bugs fixed and issues aside the game is very instanced and plays like a console port, NOT a MMORPG. None of the official reviews go past lvl 25 which is the only finished/polished part of the game. Leveling in AoC is alot like real life. 1-20 you have fun. 25-40 you prepare for the future. 40-70 is just a borring grind, and by 80 you want to put yourself out of your misery.… Expand
  36. EO'.
    May 30, 2008
    9
    Brill game but the bugs I hate. Also the system requirements are horrible. The combat system rules though and pretty much everything else in this game.
  37. JackA.
    May 31, 2008
    10
    Excellent game: Beatiful, exciting and engrossing. Still some bugs, but nothing that takes away the joy of the game.
  38. TadMorbid
    May 30, 2008
    1
    European and American players unable to play on each others servers. Somewhat primitive interface.
  39. kylehall
    May 7, 2008
    10
    WOW!!!

    I played the closed beta for two weeks and i was REALLY impressed... even better than i expected.

    I thought the beta would suck ass... but i was amazed that most everything worked and i really loved the gameplay, though not everything felt fully smooth because it was a beta.. i expect great things from this game at release!
  40. AnonymousMC
    Jun 1, 2008
    10
    A fantastic mature MMO, with a new and exciting style and combat. Funcom has taken world of warcraft and mortal combat, smashed them toghter with the excellent conan lore and created a masterpiece.
    From the amazing visual effects to the amazing guild system, age of conan is now the daddy of mmos...its only a matter of time before age of conan takes the number 1 spot.
  41. KeiraP.
    Jun 12, 2008
    1
    - Unfinished release. - Combat gets old really fast. - Everything is instanced. - Bosses get camped in public instances by high level guilds. - Crafting system is a joke, you can start gathering at level 20, crafting at level 40, where is the logic? - Bad customer support. - Bad loot system. - Skills are not properly explained and you have no idea what an increase in skill actually means - Unfinished release. - Combat gets old really fast. - Everything is instanced. - Bosses get camped in public instances by high level guilds. - Crafting system is a joke, you can start gathering at level 20, crafting at level 40, where is the logic? - Bad customer support. - Bad loot system. - Skills are not properly explained and you have no idea what an increase in skill actually means for your gameplay.… Expand
  42. RutgerH.
    Jun 12, 2008
    2
    AoC is a short three phase process of excitement (hype & installation), fear (desperate tweaking to get any playability at low low settings), and disappointment (buy new grapics card to get high high settings and indeed see EQ2 with an extra helping of bugs, a very shallow combat system, and amazingly boring quests). Uninstall.
  43. DaveR.
    Jun 13, 2008
    9
    First, I want to make it clear that this review constitutes levels 1-30. Levels 1-30 represent the standard MMO equation aside from the unique combat and stellar graphics. This may or may not be indicative of levels 31-80 since this MMO is constantly evolving from day to day. This game is currently being patched twice a week. To be honest, you must play this game for yourself to determine First, I want to make it clear that this review constitutes levels 1-30. Levels 1-30 represent the standard MMO equation aside from the unique combat and stellar graphics. This may or may not be indicative of levels 31-80 since this MMO is constantly evolving from day to day. This game is currently being patched twice a week. To be honest, you must play this game for yourself to determine your own evaluation. The outcome will most likely vary with each individual. In my opinion, It is definitely worth your time and effort. I will provide additional reviews for levels 31-80 when possible. In conclusion, AoC is a cross between many different MMO's. It has the potential to become one of the best MMO releases in the history. At this point, only time will tell. Potential: 8-10 Graphics: 8-10 Audio:8-10 Gameplay: 8-10 Lasting Appeal: Undetermined at this time… Expand
  44. HomerJ.
    Jun 15, 2008
    9
    Game's not quite ready, but it still keeps me going. I'm having a not so secret love affair with the combat system.
  45. Jamesnothanks
    Jun 19, 2008
    0
    Worst game ever, buggy, sexist bugs, poor combat system, no content, can't handle large scale PvP, is an alpha build game thats bad, just bad.
  46. RobW.
    Jun 20, 2008
    9
    Great game. It has pulled me away from the ever lasting hold of FF11. As a large hater of WoW, it is nice to see a game that gives WoW a run for its money. Its new yes, and has many many bugs...but what game didn't on release. Give it time, and it will be around for a long time.
  47. AaronA.
    Jun 2, 2008
    9
    A very good MMO with the chance to become legendary. At its current state the core game works well, is some bugs and glitches here and there, also missing some features, but that will all be fixed and implemented soon. Good job Funcom, you deserve praise for this game!
  48. MichaelH.
    Jun 2, 2008
    9
    Other than some minor performance issues this game has been the best MMO I've played to date. Only time will tell if the story lines, PvP, raid level loot, and basic gameplay is enough to retain players.
  49. DanielD
    Jun 2, 2008
    9
    This game is absolutely great. The graphics are lovely, story is compelling, and the gameplay innovative and an absolutely blast. The only real beef I have with it is that it feels more or less unfinished, but that's just characteristic of MMOs at launch. In a few months time, this could very well be the game to challenge WoW. I highly recommend trying it out.
  50. BryanFamily
    Jun 23, 2008
    6
    I really want to like this game as I enjoyed reading the Conan books during my teens. However, forgetting about gameplay for the moment, I have found that it is very buggy. I really don't see why, as consumers we should put up with a faulty product. OK, maybe Funcom will iron out all the problems eventually, and I understand the argument about how MMO's are very complex and I really want to like this game as I enjoyed reading the Conan books during my teens. However, forgetting about gameplay for the moment, I have found that it is very buggy. I really don't see why, as consumers we should put up with a faulty product. OK, maybe Funcom will iron out all the problems eventually, and I understand the argument about how MMO's are very complex and difficult to bring out without a few bugs. But using this argument condones a situation that we shouldn't accept. So, in conclusion, what should have been a great MMO franchise has been spoiled by technical issues. I will not give any more of my money to Funcom.… Expand
  51. sfc19711971
    Jun 24, 2008
    2
    Vanguard 2 or worse Anarchy Online 2? Funcom had to release this game early due to investors getting restless and it shows. Levels 1-20, those typically reviewed by the press are reasonably well polished, quests at least can be completed and there are not major problems. Past that, PvP and PvE balance is a mess, quests are bugged, huge memory leaks, crafting broken even resulting in Vanguard 2 or worse Anarchy Online 2? Funcom had to release this game early due to investors getting restless and it shows. Levels 1-20, those typically reviewed by the press are reasonably well polished, quests at least can be completed and there are not major problems. Past that, PvP and PvE balance is a mess, quests are bugged, huge memory leaks, crafting broken even resulting in crashes, content missing, skills not working, feats either badly described, not working or both. Female attack speed slower then male attack speed. The list goes on and on. Customer support is absent with petitions in game on any subject just not being handled. To those who played Anarchy Online, this is all to familiar. Funcom has NOT learned its lesson. If you must, just wait till AoC follows AO into free to play hell.… Expand
  52. MagisterG.
    Jun 26, 2008
    8
    It has its issues, but it's a welcome and refreshing addition to the world of MMORPGs, and is gobs of fun despite being buggy and incomplete.
  53. NoahS.
    Jun 29, 2008
    10
    Excellent update to the MMO genre with lot's of cool locations, visceral combat and some of the best immersion I've seen in ANY RPG in a long time. It's also quite friendly for those of us with a more casual playstyle, and is very easily consumed in small pieces when time allows. A huge recommendation from an 'older' gamer.
  54. SiR
    Jun 3, 2008
    7
    I'm not a a PvE fan, I much prefere PvP MMOs with risk involved. AoC PvP is a joke while RvR Siege has potential you have to be at the end game first and getting there is too much of an xp "grind fest." PvE "Raiders" may like this game but if like me you prefere PvP orientated MMOs then you'll be very disappointed.
  55. GaryP.
    Jun 30, 2008
    10
    I broke the wow addiction to move to Conan and I haven't regretted it. It's fantastic and I love that I'm able to play in short bursts and still accomplish things.
  56. Laura
    Jun 3, 2008
    9
    Has bugs, just like you'd expect from any standard MMO release (please, not all companies have the money backing WoW, don't compare it). However, it has had the smoothest launch of any MMO I've been a part of or heard of. It is absolutely beautiful (assuming your computer can do it), the quests aren't bad, and leveling isn't painful. The UI leaves a lot to be Has bugs, just like you'd expect from any standard MMO release (please, not all companies have the money backing WoW, don't compare it). However, it has had the smoothest launch of any MMO I've been a part of or heard of. It is absolutely beautiful (assuming your computer can do it), the quests aren't bad, and leveling isn't painful. The UI leaves a lot to be desired, and if you get a bit out of visual range of your group, you're also off their maps, making it difficult to keep track of everyone.… Expand
  57. JoeM.
    Jun 30, 2008
    0
    Played till level 80 and then threw it in the trash. Unimplemented features, a cornucopia of bugs and stability issues completely ruined the game for me. Had most of the reviewers played past level 20 I'm sure that their average score would be much, much lower. It shocks me that Funcom would release such a game in it's current state and have the gall to charge people a monthly Played till level 80 and then threw it in the trash. Unimplemented features, a cornucopia of bugs and stability issues completely ruined the game for me. Had most of the reviewers played past level 20 I'm sure that their average score would be much, much lower. It shocks me that Funcom would release such a game in it's current state and have the gall to charge people a monthly fee for what is essentially beta testing. I will never buy a Funcom title again.… Expand
  58. AudunV.
    Jun 3, 2008
    9
    After playing this for the last couple of weeks, I must say it has potential. PvE wise its more engaging than most others, both because of witty and more mature quests and the beautiful graphics. The PvP also shows promise, but so far the rewards and balance is not really finished. If they can pull off a system like DaoC had, or something better this will probably be what hardcore After playing this for the last couple of weeks, I must say it has potential. PvE wise its more engaging than most others, both because of witty and more mature quests and the beautiful graphics. The PvP also shows promise, but so far the rewards and balance is not really finished. If they can pull off a system like DaoC had, or something better this will probably be what hardcore PvP'ers have been waiting for. Thats a big if though, but well see later - 9 for now, for promise of a better future.… Expand
  59. PierreC.
    Jun 30, 2008
    10
    It's been a long time since I've been this riveted by a new MMO, but Funcom's latest foray into the genre is a breath of fresh air. I find myself laughing and amazed, and I genuinely get excited in combat. The game really shines no modern PC hardware, and should be added to the collection of any true PC gaming aficionado.
  60. BradE.
    Jun 6, 2008
    5
    This game was not ready for release. There is tons of slowdown and it's really choppy. I've had to dump two characters because game bugs prevented me from progressing. I will not be starting a third. And people wonder why PC games are all but disappearing. If a game was released for the 360 with these problems, it would be universally panned into extinction by critics and gamers This game was not ready for release. There is tons of slowdown and it's really choppy. I've had to dump two characters because game bugs prevented me from progressing. I will not be starting a third. And people wonder why PC games are all but disappearing. If a game was released for the 360 with these problems, it would be universally panned into extinction by critics and gamers alike. Enjoy it, you guys. I'll be playing Oblivion on my XBox.… Expand
  61. MaxCourter
    Jun 6, 2008
    9
    This game just keeps getting better. Any faults are being addressed very quickly and as for people complaining about framerate issues, upgrade your system. I have no difficulties with my computer and usually run 90 fps. There are still issues, but these are being looked at and we will see the updates soon.
  62. [anonymous]
    Jun 6, 2008
    9
    Although the combat isn't revolutionary, it is evolutionary. It still adds up to a great time in a beautiful lush world.
  63. Ecco
    Jun 7, 2008
    4
    IOnly the basics are implemented at the moment, very few quests after lvl 50, not so polished after lvl 20+, buggy laggy...a better beta at this point.
  64. MG
    Jun 7, 2008
    0
    Epic amount of fail here. The game is nowhere near ready for release. Funcom is doing nothing to fix bugs or fix balance issues. In fact, every patch introduces more bugs than were present before the patch.
  65. nts
    Jul 1, 2008
    10
    Genius game, better release than AO and WoW in the start. Everyone is complaining about bugs, but WoW and all MMO games has ALOT of these in the start. In fact, many people is calling this the most bug-free release of any MMO, so my score is 10 because of the killer graphics and insanely good combo/battle system. Great game, in a year it will be bug free for the "normal" player. And they Genius game, better release than AO and WoW in the start. Everyone is complaining about bugs, but WoW and all MMO games has ALOT of these in the start. In fact, many people is calling this the most bug-free release of any MMO, so my score is 10 because of the killer graphics and insanely good combo/battle system. Great game, in a year it will be bug free for the "normal" player. And they are already adding a lot of content, and the game can only get better from this point!… Expand
  66. PeterB.
    Jul 22, 2008
    1
    Very very poor game imo. Released way too early in it's development. I liked the idea of the direct combat system but in reality it's clunky and rather dull. Graphics are nice but that's just frill really when you consider that it's all about the gamplay - that's what really matters and that's a huge, huge letdown.
  67. AlexM.
    Jul 22, 2008
    1
    This was a complete waste of my money, it looked so good and had so much potential... this game was horrible, you spend hours on end trying to get off this pointless island only to get to another place which has very little place to explore and the quests are repetitive and boring, i never bought a subscription after the first free month ended. Only good part was that you could cut This was a complete waste of my money, it looked so good and had so much potential... this game was horrible, you spend hours on end trying to get off this pointless island only to get to another place which has very little place to explore and the quests are repetitive and boring, i never bought a subscription after the first free month ended. Only good part was that you could cut someones head off.… Expand
  68. Draggon
    Jul 27, 2008
    10
    Absolutely amazing game. I've been playing since launch. Unlike alot of today's newer MMO players, I realize that every MMO starts out rough. But just in the short time it's been out, the developers have made huge improvements. There are still things to work out as time goes on of course, but I don't think any game is ever trully done developing, even after many years. Absolutely amazing game. I've been playing since launch. Unlike alot of today's newer MMO players, I realize that every MMO starts out rough. But just in the short time it's been out, the developers have made huge improvements. There are still things to work out as time goes on of course, but I don't think any game is ever trully done developing, even after many years. The reason I gave this game such a high score, is because out of all the MMO's I've played, this one started out at a higher quality than any of them - with TONS of room to grow into. It's already a blast, and it has only begun. Much more to look forward to. Not to mention, we still have the Asian and XBox360 market opening up soon. Bigger things still coming!… Expand
  69. CP.
    Jul 29, 2008
    6
    Great for the beginning... just not done all the way yet. New combat system is superb, they just need to spend some time making all the cities as good at the starting city. Probably an excellent game in about six months.
  70. DebraW.
    Jul 31, 2008
    0
    Don't waste money on this one. Most of game is broken and bugs of every kind make game frustrating. Can't recommend.
  71. ChristopherF.
    Jul 31, 2008
    2
    As bugged and incomplete as any mmo at launch except that even the content is mostly missing. good style, bad implementation and the patches have actually progressively made the game less stable.
  72. llJog
    Jul 30, 2008
    1
    Rated 7? Are these people actually playing his game? Of all the MMO's released this is by far the worst I have seen... There should be negative scores as well.
  73. PMF
    Jul 3, 2008
    4
    It feels somewhat unfair to rate the game in its current state since I expect (assuming it survives) it will feel like a whole new game in a year or two - but by the same token : it is probably unfair to sell the game in its current state and charge a subscription fee to play it. Personally I just do not find it ambitious enough to excite me, but down the line I expect AoC will become a It feels somewhat unfair to rate the game in its current state since I expect (assuming it survives) it will feel like a whole new game in a year or two - but by the same token : it is probably unfair to sell the game in its current state and charge a subscription fee to play it. Personally I just do not find it ambitious enough to excite me, but down the line I expect AoC will become a thoroughly competent MMO. One word of warning though : the combat system is indeed more interactive than in other MMOs and akin to an old keyboard controlled beat-em-up - but this is still an MMO and it still has grind, so if playing a keyboard beat-em-up for hours of a time sounds more than you can bear you should consider your purchase carefully.… Expand
  74. Ben
    Jul 31, 2008
    1
    Yes, the first 20 levels are fantastic...after that though, it's not really a game, but more like a tech demo. There isn't a single working system in the game, some are understandable like animation glitches, some are not, like entire zones not working or male vs. female characters do different dps. As it's been said before, no mmo launches without bugs, but this is Yes, the first 20 levels are fantastic...after that though, it's not really a game, but more like a tech demo. There isn't a single working system in the game, some are understandable like animation glitches, some are not, like entire zones not working or male vs. female characters do different dps. As it's been said before, no mmo launches without bugs, but this is ridiculous. Not only do patches introduce new issues, but they significantly reduce performance as well. When the game launched, I had max visuals and had 30+ fps and everything loaded quickly. Now I get about 20-25 fps and everything takes 2-4 times as long to load. The worst though, is that the game might be a mmorpg, but if you didn't know what you were playing, you wouldn't know it. There are group quests, but folks don't do them generally since the rewards aren't great or the quests themselves are bugged. The game really feels like they were trying to make a mmorpg themed pvp fps-type game and totally ignored the mmo portion of the game. Besides the nice visuals, thrill of constant danger and fantastic first 20 levels, there are better games out there for the taking. WoW, LoTRO, EQ2 all do it better right now, and with WAR and expansions on the horizon for all those other games (all of which are so, so much more polished and feel like they are mmorps), I don't think AoC can recover.… Expand
  75. D
    Jul 5, 2008
    0
    My relatively new PC can't get above 10fps, with every option turned down to nothing. There is no tech support. Only an auto-reply. I ebayed my cd key, and cut my losses.
  76. JakeK.
    Jul 6, 2008
    2
    Terrible game where the allegedly innovative combat system forces players to press 3 or five buttons instead of one. This game is so bugged that at certain points in the game the higher system settings produce higher fps than the lowest ones. Excluding the often beautiful visuals this game is more of a step backwards for MMO's than anything else. The first few levels are lukewarm at Terrible game where the allegedly innovative combat system forces players to press 3 or five buttons instead of one. This game is so bugged that at certain points in the game the higher system settings produce higher fps than the lowest ones. Excluding the often beautiful visuals this game is more of a step backwards for MMO's than anything else. The first few levels are lukewarm at best, but once someone reaches level twenty they experience heavy instancing and very few opportunities for teamwork except to keep gankers at bay. The visuals are the only thing that keep this game from getting a 0… Expand
  77. AlvinC.
    Aug 11, 2008
    5
    Pros. Eye Candy Highly Customizable Nice Fighting Techs. Cons Way to big need good specs To many quests Alot of people capped and people are just getting the game For WoW fans its like relearning alot of stuff.
  78. JackB.
    Aug 3, 2008
    1
    You would be better off holding on to your money. This game is not ready for prime time and the flaws, bugs, poor content and class balance issues render the game almost unplayable. I suggest you wait at least a year before giving Conan a try.
  79. AFS
    Aug 7, 2008
    8
    (I'm reviewing this game as compared to WoW, mostly. I loved WoW, and I think it was a great game. Currently in AoC, I have two level 60s, and a level 50, and some 20ish alts. You can say I'm an Altaholic) Beautiful graphics, awesome music and sounds, the combo system is much more challenging and fun than the old "click and wait". The first 1-25 levels in Tortage are my (I'm reviewing this game as compared to WoW, mostly. I loved WoW, and I think it was a great game. Currently in AoC, I have two level 60s, and a level 50, and some 20ish alts. You can say I'm an Altaholic) Beautiful graphics, awesome music and sounds, the combo system is much more challenging and fun than the old "click and wait". The first 1-25 levels in Tortage are my favorite, I don't think you'll find a game that combines the immersion of a single-player RPG with that of an MMO anytime soon. Too bad the same thing can't be said after you leave Tortage. Still, that doesn't make it any less fun. If you the exploring part in an MMO, then you'll love the sights and sounds of Stygia, Aquilionia, and Cimmeria. The first thing I noticed when questing are how the adventure zones actually have a lot of people in them, you don't feel like you're questing in a ghost town, which makes it specially fun if you rolled on a PvP server. The classes are fun too, where else would you get a two-handed sword wielding, demon transforming mage?, this is what makes the Herald of Xotli my favorite class so far. It's a hard class concept to pull off in a game like this if you ask me, and Funcom did it briliantly. Currently I'm leveling a Necromancer to get Ritual of the Lich, a spell that turns you into an undead archmage. If you're expecting a bug free MMO at the first months of it's release, then good luck on finding that game. AFAIK, all MMOs have a rough time at the beginning. You can either wait a couple of months till they iron out most of the issues, or with a little patience have a blast experiencing a new MMO.… Expand
  80. RodericR.
    Sep 13, 2008
    0
    A buggy, unbalanced game that was released a year too soon. It had substantial goodwill, interest, fanbase, and hype....and squandered ALL of it within 3 months. Once 3 and 6 month subscriptions finally run out, you're looking at a game that will struggle to keep 100k subscribers. Failcom will most likely go under due to epic failure here.
  81. RasterM.
    Sep 14, 2008
    1
    Bugs, crashes, lacking content for the majority of the game, memory leaks, and is full of jerks due to the attraction that is blood, gore, and nudity. Don't let them fool you, they, and this game, are not mature. It is merely unfit for younger audiences.
  82. DönH
    Sep 14, 2008
    1
    I played this game for 2 months and decided that it was quite possibley the worst MMO that I have ever played in recent years. The Game crashes, its so buggy I thought my computer had a virus, and if you play it long enough you just feel like its incomplete. The only decent thing about it is the begining of the game and even that is iffy. Fun Facts: Most feats don't work correctly, I played this game for 2 months and decided that it was quite possibley the worst MMO that I have ever played in recent years. The Game crashes, its so buggy I thought my computer had a virus, and if you play it long enough you just feel like its incomplete. The only decent thing about it is the begining of the game and even that is iffy. Fun Facts: Most feats don't work correctly, Some classes can literally be killed in one hit at 80 by other classes, and 50% of the people who started playing the game at launch have quit already (Server population is horrible).… Expand
  83. FrankH.
    Sep 15, 2008
    9
    Good graphic, good combat system. but keep in mind if you are using a 32bits system (that's include vista 32), you will have a memory leak issue with lead to crash client every few hours, because this game isn't designed for a 32bits system. If you have vista 64 or xp64, grats, work just fine.
  84. DarinnT.
    Sep 17, 2008
    0
    The lack of content was a complete bore. After about Level 45 you struggle to find quests let alone any fun.
  85. ScreechMr.
    Sep 19, 2008
    9
    Very fun and entertaining game there are so many quests and the bugs and crashes have just about ceased.
  86. DönH
    Sep 4, 2008
    0
    I played this game for 2 months and decided that it was quite possibley the worst MMO that I have ever played in recent years. The Game crashes, its so buggy I thought my computer had a virus, and if you play it long enough you just feel like its incomplete. The only decent thing about it is the begining of the game and even that is iffy. Fun Facts: Most feats don't work correctly, I played this game for 2 months and decided that it was quite possibley the worst MMO that I have ever played in recent years. The Game crashes, its so buggy I thought my computer had a virus, and if you play it long enough you just feel like its incomplete. The only decent thing about it is the begining of the game and even that is iffy. Fun Facts: Most feats don't work correctly, Some classes can literally be killed in one hit at 80 by other classes, and 50% of the people who started playing the game at launch have quit already (Server population is horrible).… Expand
  87. sb
    Sep 9, 2008
    4
    4 of 10, because the character creation and starter island are good. Once you leave these initial areas the game goes downhill fast until, at level 80, there's nothing to do but stand around in stealth at zone entrances and wait for people to gank.
  88. ThadM
    Oct 9, 2009
    8
    I played WoW for 4 years cleared all content except original naxx and most of the bosses in ulduar. This game isnt a WoW its community is much smaller and all in all when you weigh every aspect of it you will find its not as good as WoW. What this game is actually is the second best mmorpg out there. I could ramble on about the awsome combat or huge zones or beautiful graphics but I wont I played WoW for 4 years cleared all content except original naxx and most of the bosses in ulduar. This game isnt a WoW its community is much smaller and all in all when you weigh every aspect of it you will find its not as good as WoW. What this game is actually is the second best mmorpg out there. I could ramble on about the awsome combat or huge zones or beautiful graphics but I wont I'll simply say if you are sick and tired of WoW and want to try something else look no further… Expand
  89. ZachB
    Jun 29, 2009
    10
    This game is great all the updates have fix 99.9% of all bugs the memory leaks are no more. great new content, new zones, new instances just great and the new update that buffs up states is just wonderfully implemented and works great and gives you a reason to get new gear and weapons. Theres amazing graphics amazing gameplay that has never been seen in a MMO before. Really fun PvP geat This game is great all the updates have fix 99.9% of all bugs the memory leaks are no more. great new content, new zones, new instances just great and the new update that buffs up states is just wonderfully implemented and works great and gives you a reason to get new gear and weapons. Theres amazing graphics amazing gameplay that has never been seen in a MMO before. Really fun PvP geat minis for PvP and the lvl system for PvP the gear you get is really sweet this game as came a long way since it was first release and if you haven't played get it and try it out there is a Free trial up and there website right now and if you have stopped playing because of the buggy release try it again trust me you wont be let down this games great.… Expand
  90. AimenS.
    Oct 11, 2008
    5
    I've been playing the game since Beta, and to be quiet honest - this game has a LOT of potential BUT - It needs even more work.There is practically decent content from level 60-80. Level 1-20 is Amazingly fun and full of content and immersion, however unfortunately it all goes down hill from there. I really suggest anyone interested in this game wait for 6-7 months before trying this out.
  91. GarethW.
    Oct 16, 2008
    0
    The lack of content, the bugs and the general failure of this game just makes me wanna wonder why I wasted the money on it in the first place. Dear oh dear, shame really, it was so promising.
  92. VictorM.
    Apr 23, 2008
    10
    Best game ever
  93. JimSchaefer
    May 19, 2008
    8
    I have played beta and im not really impressed. There is really nothing that makes this game different from any other MMORPG. Other then the blood battles in witch case looks like someone just splattered catchup packets with every blow they do to nearby enemies. Wow they do have better graphics but thats only if your PC can run them.. hands down World of Warcraft Played it hate it stillI have played beta and im not really impressed. There is really nothing that makes this game different from any other MMORPG. Other then the blood battles in witch case looks like someone just splattered catchup packets with every blow they do to nearby enemies. Wow they do have better graphics but thats only if your PC can run them.. hands down World of Warcraft Played it hate it still beats this game.… Expand
  94. AnonymousMC
    May 19, 2008
    9
    Amazingly good! Stable client and server, good performance and great graphics; engaging gameplay, absorbing quest lines and npcs with real personalities. The way I feel about AoC is the way I hoped to feel about Vanguard early last year.

    My only complaints have to do with the need for better tools in the UI, such as better guild and friends interfaces.
  95. PaulS.
    May 19, 2008
    10
    Very Very awesome game.
  96. AlvernW.
    May 19, 2008
    10
    Excellent game. Highly optimized engine and servers - very good performance. Deep combat system.
  97. JustinW.
    May 21, 2008
    10
    An amazing breath of fresh air in a genre dominated by dull "seen it before" game play elements. With the removal of auto-attack, this MMORPG has a completely unique feel to it, and this is coming from someone who is a veteran of EverQuest, EverQuest II, World of Warcraft, and more recently a newbie of LOTRO & Tabula Rasa. The superb graphics and adult themes are icing on the cake, and I An amazing breath of fresh air in a genre dominated by dull "seen it before" game play elements. With the removal of auto-attack, this MMORPG has a completely unique feel to it, and this is coming from someone who is a veteran of EverQuest, EverQuest II, World of Warcraft, and more recently a newbie of LOTRO & Tabula Rasa. The superb graphics and adult themes are icing on the cake, and I think Funcom has found themselves a cash cow.… Expand
  98. JohnA.
    May 21, 2008
    10
    Makes me actually wanna kill stuff instead of just grinding awesome game really captivating.
  99. MichaelT.
    May 21, 2008
    10
    Best MMO ever made, unique playstyle, realistic graphics, great art, great sound, and awesome pvp/pve. This is the best all round MMO ever made.
  100. AaronR.
    May 21, 2008
    10
    This is the best MMO to grace us since WoW. Great Graphics, great plot, great fighting, GREAT, GREAT, and more GREAT! Oh...make sure your computer meets the recommended specs to fully enjoy it.
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Awards & Rankings

33
#33 Best PC Game of 2008
9
#9 Most Discussed PC Game of 2008
45
#45 Most Shared PC Game of 2008

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 44 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 36 out of 44
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 44
  3. Negative: 0 out of 44
  1. GameZone
    94
    This game marks the next generation of MMOs in many ways. It looks good, is very entertaining and plays very well. This is a journey well worth taking.
    Read full review
  2. AtomicGamer
    92
    It won't put WoW out of business, but then again, nothing will for a long time, and that doesn't mean this isn't a great game with tons of appeal and a hopefully more mature audience
    Read full review
  3. GameSpy
    80
    Age of Conan going forward should become a delightfully savage second home for plenty of howling on-line barbarians.
    Read full review
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