Arcanum: Of Steamworks and Magick Obscura

 PC
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 389 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 334 out of 389
  2. Mixed: 28 out of 389
  3. Negative: 27 out of 389
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  1. FeyshanW.
    Dec 26, 2009
    10
    Such a shame they don't seem to make games like this one anymore. It has the required complexity and plethora of choices for each presented problem, that aren't merely fake choices, as presented in titles like the failure that was DA:O. Although this kind of games doesn't suit the majority of players that want simpler games, the kind that were once most commonly found in Such a shame they don't seem to make games like this one anymore. It has the required complexity and plethora of choices for each presented problem, that aren't merely fake choices, as presented in titles like the failure that was DA:O. Although this kind of games doesn't suit the majority of players that want simpler games, the kind that were once most commonly found in arcades/console games, but nowadays have taken over even the pc gaming industry. With everything being multi platform and in extreme dumbed down.… Expand
  2. Stylus
    Mar 19, 2012
    8
    This game is ugly (not because its graphics aren't cutting edge - it just looks bad), buggy, terribly balanced and in general gives off the impression of being rushed. Those rather large flaws aside it's an excellent RPG with a solid story, some interesting characters, a world with plenty of things to discover and one of the best character creation systems I've ever used in a CRPG. One ofThis game is ugly (not because its graphics aren't cutting edge - it just looks bad), buggy, terribly balanced and in general gives off the impression of being rushed. Those rather large flaws aside it's an excellent RPG with a solid story, some interesting characters, a world with plenty of things to discover and one of the best character creation systems I've ever used in a CRPG. One of Troika's great unfinished masterpieces. Three stars, four with the unofficial patch.… Expand
  3. AndrewN
    Nov 15, 2008
    10
    One of the four best RPG's I've ever played. It's up there with Planescape Torment and Fallout 1&2. Admittedly the game is flawed and can take quite a while to get into, but there are very few games which copy this level of non-linearity in story and have such a unique atmosphere. Out of Torment and the Fallouts, this game is also probably the most replayable - every game One of the four best RPG's I've ever played. It's up there with Planescape Torment and Fallout 1&2. Admittedly the game is flawed and can take quite a while to get into, but there are very few games which copy this level of non-linearity in story and have such a unique atmosphere. Out of Torment and the Fallouts, this game is also probably the most replayable - every game will be different and satisfying, with some very different endings. Also, check out the unofficial patch, it fixes most of the issues in the game.… Expand
  4. Adanedhil
    Mar 11, 2011
    9
    One of the best role-playing games in the world with Planescape, Fallout I/II and Baldur's Gate. Dialogues, many variants of playing, good story. Perfect for beggining of XXI century.
  5. Tanolen
    Apr 21, 2011
    10
    One of the best RPGs I have ever played, the setting is great, the writing is good, and the freedom is amazing. If you like Fallout 1/2 then this game is for you.
  6. FrostyL.
    Aug 7, 2004
    9
    Yer single player is wicked but multiplayer stinks you carnt get a worse multiplayer game!!! but the single player is highly addictive.
  7. davengo
    May 26, 2011
    9
    Although it initially got mixed reviews upon its release, Arcanum: Of Steamworks and Magick Obscura - a fantasy/steampunk roleplaying game made by many of same people who made Fallout 1 and 2 - has stood the time and is considered by some to be one of the all-time great computer RPGs. And there is plenty of justification for such a claim: it is a very deep RPG, with a great story,Although it initially got mixed reviews upon its release, Arcanum: Of Steamworks and Magick Obscura - a fantasy/steampunk roleplaying game made by many of same people who made Fallout 1 and 2 - has stood the time and is considered by some to be one of the all-time great computer RPGs. And there is plenty of justification for such a claim: it is a very deep RPG, with a great story, narrative, atmosphere, and rich characters set in one of most detailed and immersive game worlds in the history of computer RPGs. Unfortunately, the depth and detail does not extend to the combat system, which is too simplistic and boring. But still, fans of complex, nonlinear computer roleplaying games, games that are all too rare these days, ought to check Arcanum out, if they haven't already.… Expand
  8. TheXand
    May 2, 2012
    10
    Amazing game, the setting is brilliant. Steampunk, with a focus on the conflict between magic and technology each of which negatively affects the other and bring their opwn bonuses. Surprisingly dark in places, with less intelligent but physically stronger races like the orcs being dragooned into manual labour for below minimum wage jobs in factories, and prejudice against magic users inAmazing game, the setting is brilliant. Steampunk, with a focus on the conflict between magic and technology each of which negatively affects the other and bring their opwn bonuses. Surprisingly dark in places, with less intelligent but physically stronger races like the orcs being dragooned into manual labour for below minimum wage jobs in factories, and prejudice against magic users in centres of technology for example wizards being made to sit in second class seats at the back of trains.… Expand
  9. imprimus
    Jul 22, 2012
    10
    Bugs, yes. Dated graphics (even for the time), yes. Amazing story, environments, setting, characters, dialogue, and gameplay... double yes. Easily on my top 5 games of all time, the RPG elements and story in this game are second to none. There are so many little things to do, nooks and crannies to explore, and secrets to find, you can spend a hundred hours in game and not findBugs, yes. Dated graphics (even for the time), yes. Amazing story, environments, setting, characters, dialogue, and gameplay... double yes. Easily on my top 5 games of all time, the RPG elements and story in this game are second to none. There are so many little things to do, nooks and crannies to explore, and secrets to find, you can spend a hundred hours in game and not find everything. The main quest line had me riveted throughout and the NPCs actually made me care about them. So rare to find a game that can do the same these days. It's a must-play. Don't buy it for multiplayer, it's a single-player game.… Expand
  10. Orctownorc
    Jul 10, 2013
    10
    I concede that this game is over complicated and dull. It also contains one of the greatest character development systems ever seen in gaming. The sheer scale of the content, plot lines, NPC's skill combinations and playstyles signal a game that is designed to be replayed for a LONG time. There is a wealth of great game design in here. Be patient and endure the boredom of the first dozenI concede that this game is over complicated and dull. It also contains one of the greatest character development systems ever seen in gaming. The sheer scale of the content, plot lines, NPC's skill combinations and playstyles signal a game that is designed to be replayed for a LONG time. There is a wealth of great game design in here. Be patient and endure the boredom of the first dozen hours or so, and you will eventually start to appreciate how good and finally how great this game is. Finally I have to agree it's In the top 10 rpgs of all time. This game is overdue for a remake.… Expand
  11. prawda
    Apr 12, 2015
    10
    To be honest the graphic sucks in a technical way, but the style is awesome. Steampunk combined with "Magick" looks surprisingly consistent. Also the fighting sucks. Furthermore there are some bugs and a lot of graphic glitches. And last but not least the entry to this game is not easy. There is no tutorial, the game just starts straight away and you have no clue what character build mightTo be honest the graphic sucks in a technical way, but the style is awesome. Steampunk combined with "Magick" looks surprisingly consistent. Also the fighting sucks. Furthermore there are some bugs and a lot of graphic glitches. And last but not least the entry to this game is not easy. There is no tutorial, the game just starts straight away and you have no clue what character build might work, where you have to go or what decisions might be devastating.
    All these drawbacks can possibly make a game completely worthless. But not for arcanum, especially the last thing does not matter at all, it is even a good concept. Even though you don't know what to do, the game always offers another option of progressing. You can kill very important NPCs, which might break a game like this, but in Arcanum the developers have built in this possibility. Therefore the degree of non-linearity in this game is outstanding. There are a few other games, which also offer you such a tremendous amount of freedom, but there is no single game, where the story is being developed regarding your decisions and way of playing, also there is no game where the philosophical concept of the game is interwoven so cleverly with the story as well as the game mechanics. Other outstanding games of this genre are hard to transfer to a different medium like a book or a movie, but for Arcanum this is just not possible. The story/philosophy/plot can only work if the receiver of the medium is able to interact with the game. Therefore Arcanum makes use of the possibilites of computer games and involves the player so deep into the game world, that this game is a solid 10/10. You will not get this kind of experience from any other game. I find this perfection in this regard to be suffcient to overcome the flaws and still rate this game as high as possible.
    The degree of non-linearity is like Jagged Alliance 2, the love and detail of quests is like Baldurs Gate, the quality of the NPCs is better than JA2 (which has really funny NPCs or neurotic ones, but they are not as deep as in Arcanum), the atmosphere outperforms Fallout, the freedom of character design might be comparable to Baldurs Gate or the like at first glance, but after you realize what seemingly unimportant details still have an effect in the game, you are convinced that this game outperforms the other genre-defining games again. And finally the story itself outperforms even good books, there are funny analogies to the real world, satirical references regarding religion, capitalism, politics, human flaws and much more. But again these are just details. What makes the story outstanding is, that you are never force to hate or love a specific character in the game. It is your decision, the story just shows you, why someone does something, what impact it had and what his/her motivations are. You decide, if you want to support or stop someone. You can kill every single NPC, except one, in the whole game and finish it, but you can also finish it without killing any NPC. And last but not least, the ending of the story is a blast. Once you enter the last part of the game, there will be jaw-dropping-ception.    … Expand
  12. Eu
    Jul 7, 2006
    10
    A fantastic and immersive RPG,with lots of different options,from the type of character you can make to how to act in the game,definitely one of the better RPG ever done,a truly masterpiece of this genre.
  13. ScottW.
    Sep 18, 2009
    10
    Outstanding game with one of the best worlds ever conceieved, a deceptively simple combat system, and nearly unlimited customizeability. Truly open-ended, the game not only allows you to be evil, but offers a great set of characters, quests and even weapons which will allow you to actually explore the possibilities of being evil. One of the most underappreciated PC games of all time.
  14. Nauglamir
    Apr 18, 2012
    9
    I still can't fathom what it was with this game, Perhaps it was the typical fantasy characters clad in Victorian clothes, drowned into the yawning chasm of the industry. Perhaps it was the greatly-rendered lore of the old days of magic succumbing to the might of technology, in the wake of an industrial revolution taking over the land. Or it was just the whole-heartedly written story,I still can't fathom what it was with this game, Perhaps it was the typical fantasy characters clad in Victorian clothes, drowned into the yawning chasm of the industry. Perhaps it was the greatly-rendered lore of the old days of magic succumbing to the might of technology, in the wake of an industrial revolution taking over the land. Or it was just the whole-heartedly written story, filled with characters and quests that feel reminiscent of some old-fashioned nineteenth century novels, inter-wined with oily twinges of a waning fantasy realm. The music itself literally merges the land of Arcanum with melodies thriving with joyful, yearning feelings, at last gifting the player with a wistful affection. The Rpg features of Arcanum allows the player to shape their character entirely, with no constraints whatsoever to hamper its creation. As your hero faces a series of challenges - including a fearsome foe whose deeds may doom the entire world - the narration does involve compelling, gray-shaded moral choices, which will ultimately challenge deeply the philosophical concept of life. Word has it this game is marred by a number of bugs/glitches and poor graphics alike. Its vastness in any field, however, well makes up for its flaws; as for graphics, just go buying Dragon Age or some other top-notch graphics, non-flawed, soulless Rpg.… Expand
  15. [Anonymous]
    Apr 20, 2002
    10
    Very addicting!
  16. MichalK.
    Dec 30, 2003
    10
    Fantastic RPG game from creators of Fallout. I highly recommend it.
  17. EthanG.
    Apr 5, 2005
    10
    Hey Kel R? How can you expect the multiplayer of a primarily single player game to be so good? It would rely on the community. It was just giving one more mechanic for players to toy around with. If you bought the game for it's multiplayer option then you don't know nearly enough about RPGs to rate them.
  18. JB
    Jul 12, 2009
    10
    The Best RPG ever. You have to run it with the unofficial patch or its too buggy, but once you can get it to run right it is the best.
  19. EliasO.
    Jun 16, 2006
    10
    A great RPG, I have had alot of fun hours with this game, I really wish I had the time to play the game again. and again, and again.. Would be so cool to make a magic character, but I never got to that yet! lol! All the side quests..the main quest...oh lord, this game is just so much fun!
  20. Violett
    Mar 27, 2013
    10
    This is the most underrated game I ever saw. In icon on steampunk-technomagic style with unique gameplay, amazing plot and very huge sandbox world. If you like steampunk you simple MUST play Arcanum.
  21. waso
    Jan 24, 2014
    9
    This game is quite possibly my favorite game, EVER! I wish there were more like it. I wish there was a little more with character creation but that's so minor compared to the fantastic gameplay, puzzles and writing.
  22. Thazari
    Dec 27, 2016
    9
    Amazing RPG with a crazily good story and massive open world. While the story is more or less linear, there are lots of side quests and you're free to roam around most of the world. There are many different characters to accompany you, some of which have their own story and voice acting. The stat/skill system is deep and really influences the outcome of conversations and the story, asAmazing RPG with a crazily good story and massive open world. While the story is more or less linear, there are lots of side quests and you're free to roam around most of the world. There are many different characters to accompany you, some of which have their own story and voice acting. The stat/skill system is deep and really influences the outcome of conversations and the story, as characters may respond differently or quest resolve in different ways based on which skills you chose to unlock. Throughout it all is the duality between technology and magic, but there's more subtle things going on as well. And the overall plot is original and surprising. The game lasts very long too, you probably need at least 100 hours to get through it.

    Graphics are a bit grim though and the combat is quirky and better played in turn based mode as it is way too fast and buggy otherwise.    … Expand
  23. SanchezK.
    Aug 7, 2004
    10
    The bomb with hundreds of paths to choose in the game and tonzzz of diferent tecniques to learn if you dont like this shave you head off.
  24. skohl
    Jan 11, 2019
    10
    Maybe I'm lucky, but it runs fine for me. Great role-playing game. The setting is unique, the exploration is rewarding, and you have a lot of freedom.
  25. Leouch
    Jul 24, 2016
    10
    Well... it is one of best if not THE BEST 2D RPG I have ever played. Many side quests, multiple ways of achieving goal, mod support(not many of them thought :( )... Game I play since 2002 :)
  26. Eduardomm1
    Nov 20, 2017
    8
    this is the greatest RPG ever made
    it has the best soundtrack
    one of the most unique settings (Tolkien + industrial revolution)
    the voice acting is great
    aaaaaaaaaaa
    i loved it
  27. Georgb
    Mar 3, 2018
    10
    Definitely this game is a masterpiece. Here you can see "steampunk" in it's full beauty(I would say).
    Firstly, this game looked ugly for me but thats because I have never seen steampunk. And I never seen true steampunk. Thats not like Final Fantasy etc. Really ugly and beautiful steampunk.
    Soundtrack was so good that I have downloaded album from it and listen sometimes. For sure, game    Definitely this game is a masterpiece. Here you can see "steampunk" in it's full beauty(I would say).
    Firstly, this game looked ugly for me but thats because I have never seen steampunk. And I never seen true steampunk. Thats not like Final Fantasy etc. Really ugly and beautiful steampunk.
    Soundtrack was so good that I have downloaded album from it and listen sometimes.

    For sure, game is old and have bugs. A lot of bugs. But the storyline and atmosphere covers all of the stuff. Give this game a chance, especially if you are CRPG fan or steampunk fan. A lot of things could be inspired while playing Arcanum.

    Hail to the Troika Games!    … Expand
  28. gessie00
    Nov 7, 2019
    10
    Arcanum poses not only gameplay challenges to the player, including a wonderfully distinct choice between technology, magic or pure physical strength (in descending order of difficulty), but asks philosophical questions which challenge prejudices regarding life and death, happiness and suffering, in a way no other game has ever been able to match.

    A downside is that the majority of this    Arcanum poses not only gameplay challenges to the player, including a wonderfully distinct choice between technology, magic or pure physical strength (in descending order of difficulty), but asks philosophical questions which challenge prejudices regarding life and death, happiness and suffering, in a way no other game has ever been able to match.

    A downside is that the majority of this questioning occurs at the very end. So if you do play Arcanum, finish it - else you miss its brilliance. If I've piqued your curiosity but you don't quite have the time to play the game, I recommend searching for Kerghan's final cutscene on Youtube.

    R.I.P. Troika, we miss you. I'm relatively poor but would gladly invest in a reboot - no other game demands one quite like this, and no other game has been so undervalued by the gaming community.

    Rating: Over 9000/10    … Expand
  29. Arronaks3
    Jan 31, 2020
    10
    Потрясающая игра и настоящий эталон РПГ-игр.

    В нулевые годы приходилось играть без фанатских патчей, и баги, конечно, мешали. Но общего впечатления не испортили. Жаль, что вторую часть не выпустили (хоть и планировали), а надежд на ремастер/ремейк нет никаких.    Потрясающая игра и настоящий эталон РПГ-игр.

    В нулевые годы приходилось играть без фанатских патчей, и баги, конечно, мешали. Но общего впечатления не испортили.

    Жаль, что вторую часть не выпустили (хоть и планировали), а надежд на ремастер/ремейк нет никаких.
  30. Bruno
    Apr 6, 2006
    10
    I wonder how old are those kids from armchair empire or game revolution. To give this rpg jewel 65% or so means you have absolutely no idea about how should real RPG look like. They are whining on bad graphics and especially interface which is so subjective. I love the interface and all I know love it too. Beside that everything in Arcanum is excellent, dialoges, questing system (so many I wonder how old are those kids from armchair empire or game revolution. To give this rpg jewel 65% or so means you have absolutely no idea about how should real RPG look like. They are whining on bad graphics and especially interface which is so subjective. I love the interface and all I know love it too. Beside that everything in Arcanum is excellent, dialoges, questing system (so many possibilies of how to fulfil quest), character developoment, game world, sounds. I can hardly imagine better RPG made in that particular setting (steam&magic).… Expand
  31. slippery
    Aug 8, 2013
    10
    This is by far one of THE best RPG games I've ever played. The steampunk mix of technology and magic is wonderful. The guns are bit underpowered, but the game is fun.

    The dialog is fun. The environments are beautiful, varied and interesting. There are a LOT of interesting people to meet and talk to. There are SO many quests and adventures. The story is surprising and delightful.    This is by far one of THE best RPG games I've ever played. The steampunk mix of technology and magic is wonderful. The guns are bit underpowered, but the game is fun.

    The dialog is fun. The environments are beautiful, varied and interesting. There are a LOT of interesting people to meet and talk to. There are SO many quests and adventures.

    The story is surprising and delightful.

    The choices I make in the game have consequences.

    The only bad thing I can say about the game is that they didn't finish all the endings. Without the right mods, you can't naturally get some of the "bad" endings. There is also one quest that ends up being unsolvable. Some people actually LIKE that you can't do anything about it. Some people hate it. It has artistic merit, even if it does sting a bit to be unable to right that particular wrong.

    But the game is so detailed and there is SO much to see, do and discover that I can easily forgive a lot of faults in this game.

    I love how the character I choose completely changes the encounters. Race and gender have real effects on the people I meet.

    I love this game!    … Expand
  32. CooterPatooter
    Jan 26, 2012
    10
    One of the best ever. Multiple solutions to quests, believable characters, a world with a rich history, a huge step away from your standard fantasy setting and a soundtrack that I still listen to eleven years after it was released. Very nearly perfect.
  33. TheMitherer
    May 4, 2012
    8
    This game has a lot of faults, some of which are quite annoying but from a RPG perspective it is absolutely top notch. Fantastic character creation and development, great replayability, lots of joinable NPCs, some tough decisions to make and lots of charm. The magic/technology dichotomy is handled very well and the narrative is more than respectable. I enjoyed it and if you can forgiveThis game has a lot of faults, some of which are quite annoying but from a RPG perspective it is absolutely top notch. Fantastic character creation and development, great replayability, lots of joinable NPCs, some tough decisions to make and lots of charm. The magic/technology dichotomy is handled very well and the narrative is more than respectable. I enjoyed it and if you can forgive its faults you will too. This game could have been a 10 and I don't think I will say that about too many games that I score an 8. Definitely worth your time.… Expand
  34. DickTracy
    May 9, 2016
    10
    Arcanum: Of Steamworks and Magick Obscura was astoundingly buggy when it came out, and many of its battles were as laughably imbalanced as its title. Patches and mods have alleviated some of that pain over the years, but even then they weren't powerful enough to hide what a great mix of fantasy and steampunkery thrived under its surface. If you can’t find something to love about this game,Arcanum: Of Steamworks and Magick Obscura was astoundingly buggy when it came out, and many of its battles were as laughably imbalanced as its title. Patches and mods have alleviated some of that pain over the years, but even then they weren't powerful enough to hide what a great mix of fantasy and steampunkery thrived under its surface. If you can’t find something to love about this game, dump your computer in the garbage right now.

    Arcanum was dark 'n' gritty before some such tendencies became all the rage, and its character creator allowed players to create everything from gnome gamblers who brandish self-explanatory Tesla-guns to outcast orcs lugging along rusty maces. Toss in non-linear progression and multiple solutions for quests, and you've got a winner that holds up 15 years later. With all its flaws this is a true classic.    … Expand
  35. AntonioD
    Dec 24, 2009
    10
    Easily the most underrated game out there, and unfortunately it's very unlikely it will ever get a sequel. It has almost everything the ideal RPG should have. Wish other developer teams would push this kind of complexity in their games. The players actions truly shape the character's relations and impacts on the game world. Everyone that doesn't mind dated graphics and and Easily the most underrated game out there, and unfortunately it's very unlikely it will ever get a sequel. It has almost everything the ideal RPG should have. Wish other developer teams would push this kind of complexity in their games. The players actions truly shape the character's relations and impacts on the game world. Everyone that doesn't mind dated graphics and and doesn't care that much about the combat all that much should give this one a try!… Expand
  36. roboticsun
    Nov 7, 2011
    7
    Arcanum by its concept is much like fallout 1. Fans of the Fallout games will find a similarly interesting setting, sense of humor and alternative solutions to quests. Fans of complex RPGs will be surprised by the depth and length of the game. However if you are more interested in a linear game like diablo or elder scorlls games, do not bother with this one. The steam-punk setting isArcanum by its concept is much like fallout 1. Fans of the Fallout games will find a similarly interesting setting, sense of humor and alternative solutions to quests. Fans of complex RPGs will be surprised by the depth and length of the game. However if you are more interested in a linear game like diablo or elder scorlls games, do not bother with this one. The steam-punk setting is fantastic and well-designed. The plot is long and involved. The system for using technology is quite fun. Characters can literally take bits and pieces of things and assemble them into everything from hand grenades to healing salves. The major disadvantage of this game is the combat. There are no party damage whatsoever, so you can just throw grenade everywhere without hitting yourself and party members which quite ruin the fun of combat. Critical hits and misses are too common, with sometimes drastic results, such as scarring or even crippled limbs. Also you can not control your party members directly, and their behavior will sometime frustrated you.… Expand
  37. DantheMan
    Mar 18, 2011
    9
    Every so often a game comes along where you read the title, and you look at the box, and you just know it's going to be utter junk. Then on day you're bored, and you see it on the desk of a friend, and you borrow it because you don't have anything else to do and then you wind up never giving it back and paying your friend $20 for it. Arcanum is one of those games that when you think aboutEvery so often a game comes along where you read the title, and you look at the box, and you just know it's going to be utter junk. Then on day you're bored, and you see it on the desk of a friend, and you borrow it because you don't have anything else to do and then you wind up never giving it back and paying your friend $20 for it. Arcanum is one of those games that when you think about what's it's trying to do achieve from a design perspective there isn't anything special about it. In fact, the whole idea is trite. What makes the game so good is the execution. If the game was a band I'd say their music was 'tight'. And the music certainly is a highlight of this game. If you look at each piece of the game it's all good but none of it is amazing. Yet all the different elements of the game (questing, music, story, combat) feed and build off of one another in a synergistic way where the whole becomes much more than the sum of the parts. If there is one property out there that I think would make a fine addition to the MMO landscape it's this game. All the elements are there. Blizzard has proved that it doesn't take an amazing story to keep people (including me) glued to their seats. Toss some steam together with some magic and buff it up with a lot of shiny and you have winner. With Orcs flying in planes, in some ways this is WoW before WoW. A worthy game.… Expand
  38. frankielee
    Apr 24, 2015
    10
    f only mage class was a little more balanced compared to mechanical one. still one of the best rpgs out there. i just finished it again after all these years and was still impressed about the quality of this game.
  39. night4
    Mar 24, 2017
    8
    This is a tough one to score. It's got some combat annoyances but you can choose between real-time and turn-based. It's not graphically amazing, but the soundtrack and voice acting are pretty incredible. The technology-meets fantasy world it's in feels weird at first, but gives you the freedom to pursue either, both, or neither.

    What's kept it in my yearly rotation is it's uniqueness    This is a tough one to score. It's got some combat annoyances but you can choose between real-time and turn-based. It's not graphically amazing, but the soundtrack and voice acting are pretty incredible. The technology-meets fantasy world it's in feels weird at first, but gives you the freedom to pursue either, both, or neither.

    What's kept it in my yearly rotation is it's uniqueness and story. There's nothing else like it and I'm not sure there ever will be.    … Expand
  40. aisu
    Apr 5, 2011
    4
    So summarizing, it's ugly, boring gray cities, boring violin music, bad fightings system, bad interface, overall bad gameplay, plot i got to know wasn't interesting (up to where i need to go visit dwarfs mountain, i did a lot quests in tarrant and 2 cities below it, ZZzzzz), it took me much persistence and attempts to play it for around 15 hours if not more.

    Btw i loved fallout and    So summarizing, it's ugly, boring gray cities, boring violin music, bad fightings system, bad interface, overall bad gameplay, plot i got to know wasn't interesting (up to where i need to go visit dwarfs mountain, i did a lot quests in tarrant and 2 cities below it, ZZzzzz), it took me much persistence and attempts to play it for around 15 hours if not more.

    Btw i loved fallout and fallout 2. baldurs gates, torment, icewind dale. THEY HAD CLIMATE THIS GAME TOTALLY LACKS.. It's just boring, no wonder it never had big success, developers made some grave mistakes when creating this game.    … Expand
  41. Voyou
    Mar 12, 2016
    3
    I'm very surprised by the high score here.

    Apart from a rich character creation process and the use of a steampunk world, which was quite fresh at the time, Arcanum has nothing to pull me into playing. A bad interface, graphics not only lame and bland but more importantly tiny, unclear and unreadable, unpleasant movements completed with a pathetic scrolling, and worst of all the most    I'm very surprised by the high score here.

    Apart from a rich character creation process and the use of a steampunk world, which was quite fresh at the time, Arcanum has nothing to pull me into playing.

    A bad interface, graphics not only lame and bland but more importantly tiny, unclear and unreadable, unpleasant movements completed with a pathetic scrolling, and worst of all the most dreadful combat ever seen in any RPG. Not to mention bugs, broken quests and tutti quanti.

    An absolute disappointment that starts right after character creation.    … Expand
  42. AlienSpaceBats
    Feb 13, 2013
    2
    Considering its pedigree (Fallout, etc.) Arcanum should be an incredible game. I played the demo when it came out and being really into those Black Isle games at the time (you know which ones) expected to be amazed, but for some reason I ignored the game for 10+ years. Fast forward to 2012; saw it cheap on GOG, bought it, and was instantly reminded why I ignored it. The game is a trudge,Considering its pedigree (Fallout, etc.) Arcanum should be an incredible game. I played the demo when it came out and being really into those Black Isle games at the time (you know which ones) expected to be amazed, but for some reason I ignored the game for 10+ years. Fast forward to 2012; saw it cheap on GOG, bought it, and was instantly reminded why I ignored it. The game is a trudge, buggy, messy, and just broken in places. Horrible.… Expand
  43. DanR.
    Jun 22, 2006
    4
    The most accurate critique of this game is on "Angelfire". Clunky, quircky, and so unpolished, you might actually call it "unfinished". A huge disappointment after having played Fallout I and Fallout II. I was intrigued by the story, and tried to force myself to continue just out of curiousity, but finally could not put up with the bugs and the tedious interface, as well as the absolutely The most accurate critique of this game is on "Angelfire". Clunky, quircky, and so unpolished, you might actually call it "unfinished". A huge disappointment after having played Fallout I and Fallout II. I was intrigued by the story, and tried to force myself to continue just out of curiousity, but finally could not put up with the bugs and the tedious interface, as well as the absolutely pathetic hoax of NPC control.… Expand
  44. KelR.
    May 3, 2003
    0
    What? Multiplayer sucks! That's right kids are good friends at Sierra decided to do a half A**ed job on the multiplayer intending to defraud people into buying the game because it says "Multiplayer" on it, but in reality the limitations, problems and bugs in multiplayer are enough to make you swear off Sierra for life.
  45. FunkyDreamer
    Dec 24, 2015
    10
    A Game a little bit buggy, but this is excellent DnD style RPG game. Very addictive and interesting.
    You can easily compare it to Fallout 2 or Baldurs Gate 1-2.
    Take a the latest patches and enjoy.
  46. gracjanski
    Nov 3, 2020
    7
    I play some old games even today, and some of them are timeless and great. Unfortunately not Arcanum: Even in 2001 the graphics was old, today it is too old. Somehow I missed the magic of a game, maybe it is not fun enough? Surely the world hasnt got enough atmosphere to charm me to play more.
    But this game has strong sides: the char creation is even better than in Fallout, because it is    I play some old games even today, and some of them are timeless and great. Unfortunately not Arcanum: Even in 2001 the graphics was old, today it is too old. Somehow I missed the magic of a game, maybe it is not fun enough? Surely the world hasnt got enough atmosphere to charm me to play more.
    But this game has strong sides: the char creation is even better than in Fallout, because it is more complex. The dialog system and how NPCs behaves is great too. I appreciated the adult world and dialogues. In the core the gameplay is a masterpiece, but it alone doesnt make games great. Arcanum is just good in my opinion. I agree to the professional testers: it is something like 8/10, but surely not 9/10 or 10/10, this is another level that belongs to other games.    … Expand
  47. Profile
    Aug 27, 2013
    9
    I remember dungeons were too long, and some bugs happened, and the ending was nearly missing... Still it's my favourite PC RPG. I like its world of Magic and Technology. I like making choices. I like being able to make things in game.
  48. PRoxy_oQ
    Nov 22, 2013
    10
    This is THE game for me yeah u can say it has no graphics (for 2013) or it is overly complex but this game is among best RPGs ever, it has great story line whit so many twists, insane amount of options how to build character, companions which can be changed in way better than Skyrim 10 years later does, it has true world map that u could not see even in Dragon age (and it has way moreThis is THE game for me yeah u can say it has no graphics (for 2013) or it is overly complex but this game is among best RPGs ever, it has great story line whit so many twists, insane amount of options how to build character, companions which can be changed in way better than Skyrim 10 years later does, it has true world map that u could not see even in Dragon age (and it has way more locations), It has tons of spells, weapons etc. It still has the best way of building your character. I've made about 10 playthroughs and i loved it every time, combat benefits so much from character customization and it gives it so much depth, were u to play mage, assassin warrior, dps tank, healer, conjurer, trap based fighter, gunner..etc. i will not be disappointed. Actually games like this shows how much RPGs lack quality this days, and it explains that Diablo 3 is not an RPG at all !
    All about it is great,was and will be. I want a remake or at least a sequel :3
    10/10    … Expand
  49. QweSteR
    Dec 17, 2017
    8
    [8.6] Arcanum самобытен во всей своей красе. Превосходный визуальный и музыкальный стиль оформления предают игре неповторимую аутентичную атмосферу. События игры разворачивается в эпоху противостояния магии и технической революции. В распоряжении игрока знакомый меч, фаэрболл и паровая броня с дробовиком. Игрок путешествует в составе классической партии, решает нетривиальные поручения и[8.6] Arcanum самобытен во всей своей красе. Превосходный визуальный и музыкальный стиль оформления предают игре неповторимую аутентичную атмосферу. События игры разворачивается в эпоху противостояния магии и технической революции. В распоряжении игрока знакомый меч, фаэрболл и паровая броня с дробовиком. Игрок путешествует в составе классической партии, решает нетривиальные поручения и мастерит хитроумные приборы. Парадоксально, но главные достоинства игры являются её недостатками. Например. Система крафта хромает на обе ноги, боевая система плохо сбалансирована, развитие персонажа сильно ограничено максимальным уровнем. Arcanum занимает достойное место среди Fallout, Baldur's Gate и Planescape: Torment. Arcanum стал первой игрой Troika Games, продлив золотую эпоху изометрических CRPG на годы вперёд.… Expand
  50. BuskeKiggeren
    Jan 31, 2014
    10
    This is one of the best RPG games i played in my time. Don't listen to the critics about the multiplayer part not working, it works fine. Just sad you can't play the singleplayer map online. Those hating scores is just people to slow minded to understand game, so don't let it interfere with you others trying it, you haven't truly been living without.
  51. Lostframe
    May 21, 2019
    10
    Great game, classic.............................................................
  52. CloudOJD
    Dec 5, 2015
    10
    Right up there next to Planescape: Torment, this game is my favorite game of all time. Its depth and flexibility is stunning, and the amazing attention to detail and incredible interactivity only resonates the fact that it was crafted with much love and care. If there was one game where the character you create will heavily influence and dramatically alter how the game plays out, it isRight up there next to Planescape: Torment, this game is my favorite game of all time. Its depth and flexibility is stunning, and the amazing attention to detail and incredible interactivity only resonates the fact that it was crafted with much love and care. If there was one game where the character you create will heavily influence and dramatically alter how the game plays out, it is this one. No matter how many playthroughs you have, you'll always find something new. Beautiful setting and an equally beautiful soundtrack.… Expand
  53. Joewashere
    Aug 27, 2019
    10
    Arcanum has its fair share of flaws. Yet it is high up amongst my favorites, because despite its flaws it manages to hit all the right notes. A high fantasy world in the throes of an industrial revolution with a lot of steampunk thrown in for good measure, accompanied by a great and perfectly fitting soundtrack. Likeable companions, a great villain with a well-reasoned motivation to hisArcanum has its fair share of flaws. Yet it is high up amongst my favorites, because despite its flaws it manages to hit all the right notes. A high fantasy world in the throes of an industrial revolution with a lot of steampunk thrown in for good measure, accompanied by a great and perfectly fitting soundtrack. Likeable companions, a great villain with a well-reasoned motivation to his actions, interesting lore, and a nice twist on the usual Chosen One routine. What Arcanum does best, however, is reactivity. Not only do mages, thieves, inventors, etc., differ in how they play, but also in how the world treats them. Furthermore, almost every choice you make is acknowledged in some way, be it your in-character decisions, stats, abilities, race, gender, companions, or even the things you wear.

    If you can stomach the boring combat and the occasional tedious dungeon crawl, give Arcanum a chance. You will not regret it.    … Expand
  54. IllGrim
    Aug 9, 2021
    10
    Rest in piece legedary troika games studio. Arcanum is one of the best RPG that I've ever played. Brilliant setting, choices, soundrack is masterpiece. If you consider yourself a fan of RPG you should play this game.
  55. Solaris123
    Jun 14, 2021
    10
    Best rpg world ever made ,with Planescape and Fallout ,this is real king not boring casual console Witcher 3 for kids and fan Disney.
  56. EVIL_UJIN
    Oct 15, 2022
    7
    Игра могла стать шедевром вроде Fallout, но не стала из-за недоработок и отсутствия лоска в мелочах.
    В активе имеем:
    +неплохо продуманный открытый мир с абсолютной свободой (можно от нечего делать поубивать всех персонажей, включая ключевых). + интересные квесты + возможность отыгрывать любую роль, например, ваш песонаж может вообще не качать боевые навыки, а развить убеждение и    Игра могла стать шедевром вроде Fallout, но не стала из-за недоработок и отсутствия лоска в мелочах.
    В активе имеем:
    +неплохо продуманный открытый мир с абсолютной свободой (можно от нечего делать поубивать всех персонажей, включая ключевых).
    + интересные квесты
    + возможность отыгрывать любую роль, например, ваш песонаж может вообще не качать боевые навыки, а развить убеждение и харизму и в ключевых моментах всех убалтывать. Без боев , конечно не обойтись, но для этого есть напарники:)
    + развитую систему крафтинга
    В пассиве имеем:
    -Скучных напарников
    -устаревшую даже для своего времени графику
    - непродуманную боевку
    - неинтуитивное управление
    - баги    … Expand
  57. Liquid_Cold
    Aug 18, 2023
    10
    Замечательная игра во всех отношениях!
    Первое творение Troika Games, на выходе имела кучу багов, зато на сегодняшний день это всё исправили модами и фиксами.
    Лучше играть в Multiverse edition
  58. Magical_Viktor
    Apr 30, 2023
    10
    Существуют просто Зло и Большое Зло, а за ними обоими в тени прячется Очень Большое Зло. Очень Большое Зло, Геральт, это такое, которого ты и представить себе не можешь, даже если думаешь, будто уже ничто не в состоянии тебя удивить. И знаешь, Геральт, порой бывает так, что Очень Большое Зло схватит тебя за горло и скажет: «Выбирай, братец, либо я, либо то, которое чуточку поменьше»Существуют просто Зло и Большое Зло, а за ними обоими в тени прячется Очень Большое Зло. Очень Большое Зло, Геральт, это такое, которого ты и представить себе не можешь, даже если думаешь, будто уже ничто не в состоянии тебя удивить. И знаешь, Геральт, порой бывает так, что Очень Большое Зло схватит тебя за горло и скажет: «Выбирай, братец, либо я, либо то, которое чуточку поменьше»
  59. Kliffoth
    Sep 8, 2023
    10
    For sentimental reasons alone, this has to be a 10 out 10 for me... but there are some objective reasons to hand it a perfect score: from the overall setting to the gameplay to the various quests and characters to the music, it features some of the most memorable and lasting experiences you can have with any game. Given the age of this game, this point needs to be made: yes, it looksFor sentimental reasons alone, this has to be a 10 out 10 for me... but there are some objective reasons to hand it a perfect score: from the overall setting to the gameplay to the various quests and characters to the music, it features some of the most memorable and lasting experiences you can have with any game. Given the age of this game, this point needs to be made: yes, it looks dated. For some people graphics matter and if you cannot go beyond the pixelated graphics (even though the awesome art style is not impacted by age), fair enough, but for me, the graphical aspect is always an added bonus to complement the great story and gameplay, so it matters little...

    Either way, I'm somewhat sad that the creative minds behind this didn't have access to all the modern tools and technology, who knows what would've come out of such a marriage?!    … Expand
  60. UrchinChieftain
    Aug 29, 2023
    10
    This is my favorite CRPG primarily due to its setting, which unites steampunk and fantasy, 2 of my favorite genres, on top of it it has great quests, an open world, and an exciting system you can tinker with.

Awards & Rankings

39
#39 Best PC Game of 2001
7
#7 Most Discussed PC Game of 2001
21
#21 Most Shared PC Game of 2001

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
81

Generally favorable reviews - based on 24 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 18 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 24
  3. Negative: 0 out of 24
  1. Game Over Online
    80
    I thought the gameplay was good enough to make up for the deficient engine, and I found Arcanum to be a worthy successor to the Fallout series.
    Read full review
  2. Armchair Empire
    65
    Between the somewhat overly complicated nature of the game and the slow, dull battles there just wasn't a lot to get excited about in the game.
    Read full review
  3. PC Gamer
    90
    If you can’t find something to love about this game, dump your computer in the garbage right now. Arcanum epitomizes what people like you and me love most about PC gaming.
    Read full review
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