Richard Garriott's Tabula Rasa

 PC
  • Publisher: NCSOFT
  • Release Date: Oct 30, 2007
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 113 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 83 out of 113
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 113
  3. Negative: 19 out of 113

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  1. unacomn
    Sep 3, 2008
    9
    Tabula Rasa is an excelent change of pace from regular MMOs. It has a relativly unique gameplay style with many interesting options such as cloning, and more to come in fallowing patches. The best thing I like about this game is the atmosphere, the constant warzone where you can stand around, look at the scenery, and get hit by an incoming mortar. No other MMO does that. The game is goodTabula Rasa is an excelent change of pace from regular MMOs. It has a relativly unique gameplay style with many interesting options such as cloning, and more to come in fallowing patches. The best thing I like about this game is the atmosphere, the constant warzone where you can stand around, look at the scenery, and get hit by an incoming mortar. No other MMO does that. The game is good and has the potentioal to grow even further.… Expand
  2. BobwickR
    Aug 28, 2008
    0
    This game is so terrible that I uninstalled it before even being able to successfully create my first character! The client is so buggy that I essentially could not do so, or at least was unwilling to fight with it to manage it. I can only assume that most of the favorable reviews this game gets in the tabloids are due to shills who were paid for, and most of the favorable reviews it getsThis game is so terrible that I uninstalled it before even being able to successfully create my first character! The client is so buggy that I essentially could not do so, or at least was unwilling to fight with it to manage it. I can only assume that most of the favorable reviews this game gets in the tabloids are due to shills who were paid for, and most of the favorable reviews it gets in the user base are due to rampant stupidity and a willingness to pay for utter garbage. I had the opportunity to play this game for free for two weeks and I've already uninstalled it. I suggest you do the same, if you've already wasted your time acquiring it. If not, don't.… Expand
  3. MaxD.
    Apr 1, 2008
    7
    The arcade-game of MMORPGs, the fast paced, aggression-rewarding combat and interesting play styles and abilities are what set this apart from the pack. Because of this, however, dedicated MMORPG players will likely be put off by the rather shallow and twitchy game play. As of March 2008 they have added more content to address this, but Tabula Rasa still mainly shines in 30-60 minuteThe arcade-game of MMORPGs, the fast paced, aggression-rewarding combat and interesting play styles and abilities are what set this apart from the pack. Because of this, however, dedicated MMORPG players will likely be put off by the rather shallow and twitchy game play. As of March 2008 they have added more content to address this, but Tabula Rasa still mainly shines in 30-60 minute bursts of entertainment, unlike the hours-long sessions of its rivals.… Expand
  4. Brandon
    Feb 9, 2008
    4
    aimless and boring grind. The entire thing is basically Richard Garriot glorifying himself like the whackjob he is, he tromps around in a fantasy persona called "General British" and just about every event is centered around him. The game has a weak story overall and it has a few graphical bugs that are pretty annoying. Overall I was disappointed, especially the repetitive combat and aimless and boring grind. The entire thing is basically Richard Garriot glorifying himself like the whackjob he is, he tromps around in a fantasy persona called "General British" and just about every event is centered around him. The game has a weak story overall and it has a few graphical bugs that are pretty annoying. Overall I was disappointed, especially the repetitive combat and limited customization.… Expand
  5. MarkM.
    Jan 28, 2008
    9
    Excellent game, does lack some polish, though. it's 1/28/2008, and my biggest worry is, no updates in the last 35+ days. Some updates are occuring on the server, looks like, but still some bugs I wish they would fix. Still, i've fallen hard for this game, i HOPE they keep improving it, it has huge potential
  6. EricE.
    Jan 14, 2008
    6
    If you enjoy killing waves upon waves of about 5 different mobs with virtual no difference between the levels then you will enjoy this game. I really did enjoy it but after 3-4 weeks of killing the same mobs every single level by the thousands it got old. The Control Points (CP) in the game are a interesting and fun object of the game. However even this gets boring because 2-3 players can If you enjoy killing waves upon waves of about 5 different mobs with virtual no difference between the levels then you will enjoy this game. I really did enjoy it but after 3-4 weeks of killing the same mobs every single level by the thousands it got old. The Control Points (CP) in the game are a interesting and fun object of the game. However even this gets boring because 2-3 players can take or defend almost any CP. This game is very shallow and has no depth. If there wasn't a monthly fee then a lot of my complaints I wouldn't mind but I expect more for my $15 a month. However I will be keeping my eye on this game and see how it develops and will probably pop in and out of the game 1-2 months a year or whenever they release an expansion because it has potential. Just not realized yet.… Expand
  7. MikeB.
    Jan 9, 2008
    10
    Despite what a lot of the nay sayers may be posting i had more fun in this game than i have had in any game to come out in the past 10 years. Sure there are some bugs but those will surely be addressed. The new gameplay style is awesome compared to the boring old MMO style found in every single MMO. Now if you liked the way the older games played then this new system might not be for you, Despite what a lot of the nay sayers may be posting i had more fun in this game than i have had in any game to come out in the past 10 years. Sure there are some bugs but those will surely be addressed. The new gameplay style is awesome compared to the boring old MMO style found in every single MMO. Now if you liked the way the older games played then this new system might not be for you, but that doesnt mean it sucks. It just means you like things the old way and this game isn't for you. But for those players that are looking for something more real-time and different then this game probably has something to make you happy. The graphics aren't the greatest in the world, but at least they used great colors and environmental effects to keep the world from looking bland. Overall I think this game was just super amazing to play. Any game that can get me back into video gaming (hardcore style) is worth a 10. I almost completely swore off games because of all the crap coming out (on the PC anyway.)… Expand
  8. joshq
    Dec 21, 2007
    0
    WTF... why is this game rated so high, it sucks. The combat is just like any other mmoe xcept tehres no changes whatsoever in the middle of a fight except like the 4 skills u have lol. the game's story couldnt compell a 5 yr old, the graphics are shitty even for an mmo, wows 4 years old kids and it has better so stfu if ur one of the ppl sayin the graphics are good in this game, iWTF... why is this game rated so high, it sucks. The combat is just like any other mmoe xcept tehres no changes whatsoever in the middle of a fight except like the 4 skills u have lol. the game's story couldnt compell a 5 yr old, the graphics are shitty even for an mmo, wows 4 years old kids and it has better so stfu if ur one of the ppl sayin the graphics are good in this game, i swear wen i first saw trees i thought they were a cliff and teh best part is u cant walk between the trees lol? anyway the little pvp tehre is sucks believe me, like i said ur gonna have like 8 active skills tops by the end of the game.. lets be real this game is autoassault with human models.. 100x worse pvp, worse storyline, id say worse graphics especially terrain wise and even more static (boring) environments, an hows auto assault doing o wait it closed down because it couldnt even make the profit that MMOs u laugh at make... if u think im makin up my comparisons between autoassault and this game, check it out urself, tehy run on NCsofts same engine basis similar to city of heroes. DONT FORGET THIS GAME COSTS LIKE 15-16$ PER MONTH… Expand
  9. NK
    Dec 15, 2007
    3
    This simply won't cut it as an MMO--an MMO's interface must be intuitive and dead simple for it to truly succeed. This game is a chore to play. The constant gunshot sounds grind on your brain.
  10. John
    Dec 14, 2007
    6
    Worth having a poke at if you're bored, but nothing really long term. Good looking game, nice people, let down by questing (You're still grinding mobs/collecting items from grinding mobs) some weapons feel completely useless (easier to just melee enemies) Crafting system isn't too good and the game makes you feel every class is like a Hunter/Ranger (Shooting game would make Worth having a poke at if you're bored, but nothing really long term. Good looking game, nice people, let down by questing (You're still grinding mobs/collecting items from grinding mobs) some weapons feel completely useless (easier to just melee enemies) Crafting system isn't too good and the game makes you feel every class is like a Hunter/Ranger (Shooting game would make you feel like that. You know, minus pets.) Healing system is somewhat horrible and the instances/dungeons are okay, like a scripted encounter/battle rather than mash everything until loot drops. It's still the same tedious grind and the same tedious quest giving with a new makeover and an interesting class progression system. Not going to tear you away from WoW/FFXI/EQ2. Average at best.… Expand
  11. GerryA.
    Dec 4, 2007
    9
    No camping, no griefers, lots of fun and a dynamite interface. If you have hung back from MMOs, this is your opportunity to try a great one but at your pace. Note that many retailers have deep discounts on this, especially the river.
  12. WalterM.
    Nov 27, 2007
    9
    This is a wonderful mix of FPS and MMO, unlike anyting done before. You vcan jump in for a half hout of go all night and it's always fun. It will take a while to build up clans and teh kind of high level teaming in WOW (which I didn't like much) but it's easy to team up on the fly into squads to beat the tougher instances. It has a few graphic bugs, but this thing can only This is a wonderful mix of FPS and MMO, unlike anyting done before. You vcan jump in for a half hout of go all night and it's always fun. It will take a while to build up clans and teh kind of high level teaming in WOW (which I didn't like much) but it's easy to team up on the fly into squads to beat the tougher instances. It has a few graphic bugs, but this thing can only get better. Highly recommended.… Expand
  13. AnonymousMC
    Nov 26, 2007
    10
    An MMO where the player can feel like a hero and does not die at the sight of the first enemy, that's what I like and that's what TR delivers. Nice graphics, nice animations, great environmental sound and music, interesting storyline, better quests than any other MMORPG and still contains a little bit of mystery as far as game mechanics are conserned, this game feels less like anAn MMO where the player can feel like a hero and does not die at the sight of the first enemy, that's what I like and that's what TR delivers. Nice graphics, nice animations, great environmental sound and music, interesting storyline, better quests than any other MMORPG and still contains a little bit of mystery as far as game mechanics are conserned, this game feels less like an Excel-sheet rpg, one good example of which WoW is.… Expand
  14. RegnorV.
    Nov 22, 2007
    10
    Finally, a sci-fi based MMO that delivers a fresh experience while maintaining all of the best conventions of the genre. Although I agree that crafting sucks and that's a downside (I would have voted 9.5 if that were possible, the game does have shortcomings, but I rate it higher than a 9). Gameplay does not feel tedious, grinding is non-existent, the instances are varied and Finally, a sci-fi based MMO that delivers a fresh experience while maintaining all of the best conventions of the genre. Although I agree that crafting sucks and that's a downside (I would have voted 9.5 if that were possible, the game does have shortcomings, but I rate it higher than a 9). Gameplay does not feel tedious, grinding is non-existent, the instances are varied and uniquely interesting and challenging, and the loot is fun to come by and use. Logos are a great idea to keep the questing diverse, rewarding and meaningful. All in all, the only PC game that's taken me away from my XBox and brought me back to my original love of PC gaming.… Expand
  15. AlanT.
    Nov 21, 2007
    9
    Awesome game, great graphics if you have the hardware to run on high. A few bugs here and there prevent a perfect score, but I have faith that they will be addressed soon enough.
  16. Mikhail
    Nov 20, 2007
    9
    In my opinion, this game gave a second breath to the MMORPG world, and brought new, exclusive and initially new features to a gameplay. A good, interesting game with a interesing and exciting story.
  17. MysenS.
    Nov 19, 2007
    9
    I've played the Beta of the game but not the real thing. And I gotta say, this game is absolutely stunning. I could play this and have more fun than I ever did on World of Warcraft. The new style of gameplay, the immersive and spectacular worlds, and the overall fun of Tabula Rasa makes this a game you want to spend month after month leveling up on.
  18. PavelG.
    Nov 19, 2007
    9
    Looks really nice and will be even better when they have fixed lags and bugs. Pure condensed fun.
  19. SteveM.
    Nov 15, 2007
    9
    A very nice departure from the standard sword and sorcery MMO. Fast action and the ability to take on large groups of bad guys at a time really makes this game stand apart from the rest. I'm a bit of an MMOaholic, and this game comes in time to save me from more orcs and elves for awhile.
  20. TonyL.
    Nov 15, 2007
    5
    It not dynamic, its a very static game. Working together is a chore, just like every other MMO. It falls short of being an RPG, in that the mechanics dont reward teamwork more than the base "hurray! More damage!" It feels like a singleplayer game alright, and thats a BAD thing. Its as silent as some of the worst mmo's
  21. JedK.
    Nov 15, 2007
    9
    An excellent game that's fun alone or with friends. Action is easy to jump into, but you may find not find it so easy to get out! The game suffers from a few bugs, namely memory leaks, occasional crashes, and some lag issues, but a recent patch fixed the lag issues and increased stability. Overall, a very fun, easy-to-get-into, and pretty game.
  22. JimB.
    Nov 15, 2007
    10
    Amazing combat system, the best yet for an MMO, Graphically it's top notch, sound and visual effects are also amazing. Tabula Rasa is the complete package. Out of the box I'm having a blast and the planned updates sound like a ton of fun- mounts with guns!! I'm all in on TR!
  23. MichaelR.
    Nov 14, 2007
    9
    Tons of fun with only a few minor bugs, been playing it for several hours every night since I picked it up. I feel a couple patches down the road it will be amazing, although you do need some hefty memory to run it well.
  24. MichaelO.
    Nov 13, 2007
    10
    Been in since beta, and it's fan-freaking-tastic! I'm having such a blast with control points and logos. I can't wait to get to tier 4, but which class to choose?! I'm cloning as I go so I can try them all!
  25. Danny
    Nov 13, 2007
    6
    Certainly feels more like a solo player than an MMO, graphics are not to up to par, gets boring after a while. My biggest disappointment is, having to pay a monthly fee to play the game. It is fair to say, Tabula Rasa should be free to play online. Online players will lose interest & begin to decline overtime. At least, the creative mind of Richard Garriott will in fact help pave the road Certainly feels more like a solo player than an MMO, graphics are not to up to par, gets boring after a while. My biggest disappointment is, having to pay a monthly fee to play the game. It is fair to say, Tabula Rasa should be free to play online. Online players will lose interest & begin to decline overtime. At least, the creative mind of Richard Garriott will in fact help pave the road for future MMO… Expand
  26. Godstar
    Nov 11, 2007
    5
    Graphics sucks, I had them turned up on a quad core system with an NVIDIA 8800 GTS and background effects were either popping or bleeding into the foreground. Water effects were bleeding into other areas, and all that before I've even left the starting area! The game itself looks about 5-7 years dated graphically, so wasn't too impressed. The gameplay is 'so so' and Graphics sucks, I had them turned up on a quad core system with an NVIDIA 8800 GTS and background effects were either popping or bleeding into the foreground. Water effects were bleeding into other areas, and all that before I've even left the starting area! The game itself looks about 5-7 years dated graphically, so wasn't too impressed. The gameplay is 'so so' and seems to be way overhyped for what it is. Anarchy Online is a bit better IMO, and at least is a bit more fleshed out of a game if you want a sci-fi based MMORPG. Eve Online if you want ships. I wouldn't recommend this beta quality game to anyone, maybe in a year when they fix their issues.… Expand
  27. JamesRadzom
    Nov 11, 2007
    8
    I've been a pretty active WoW player (read: addict,lol) and I've really been enjoying this game. Will it have the depth to surpass WoW? All I can say atm is that it's faced paced and fun and a great change of pace. Highly recommended for ant mmorpg'er looking for something fresh.
  28. AlexC.
    Nov 11, 2007
    5
    I was expecting this to be an FPS MMO but it's not. It's has a sort of semi twitch combat method that is neither FPS or turnbased but requires little skill to take the mobs down. I found this tedious after the first couple of hours. Not worth the money.
  29. ChristopherC.
    Nov 8, 2007
    4
    This game attempts to combine two incompatable genres (RPG and Shooter) and, unfortunately, doesn't achieve its goal. Interesting idea, bad rendering thereof.
  30. LindaW.
    Nov 7, 2007
    10
    Refreshing change of pace from the typical MMO. The fast paced gameplay makes it really fun.
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Awards & Rankings

54
#54 Best PC Game of 2007
33
#33 Most Discussed PC Game of 2007
60
#60 Most Shared PC Game of 2007

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 34 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 28 out of 34
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 34
  3. Negative: 0 out of 34
  1. GameDaily
    80
    It will appeal to both hardcore gamers who want to spend hours exploring every square centimeter of this immense world, as well as the casual gamer who only wishes to play for 20 minutes at a time yet feels like they accomplished something.
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  2. GameSpy
    80
    While the lack of an auction house hurts the game, the awesome combat, intense battlefield action, fun missions and interesting character progression is more than enough to keep players coming back for a good long while. A well-realized science fiction setting in a genre overflowing with elves and orcs doesn't hurt either.
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  3. GamesRadar+
    80
    If this genre has intimidated you in the past, Tabula Rasa is the perfect entry point with its user-friendliness and swift tempo. Calling it a clean slate may be a bit of a stretch, but Richard Garriott has certainly provided gamers with something unique.
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