Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning

 Xbox 360
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 466 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 331 out of 466
  2. Mixed: 89 out of 466
  3. Negative: 46 out of 466
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  1. T00lzy
    Feb 7, 2012
    8
    Skyrim fan boys and fan boys of this game are going to collide. This game is not as good as Skyrim, but its not the mediocre garbage Skyrim kids think it is. This game is a solid experience, and is a lot of fun, but people cant stand when their favorite game has competition.
  2. Isocyanide
    Feb 9, 2012
    8
    At 25 hrs into the game I'd say it is a solid 8-8.5. People giving this game a 10 or very low scores are either blind fan boys or jaded crybabies. I've been playing RPGs for 20 years and would say I have an open and fair attitude toward each game I play.

    KoA doesn't bring anything really new to the RPG field per se, but manages to take elements from great games and mash into one    At 25 hrs into the game I'd say it is a solid 8-8.5. People giving this game a 10 or very low scores are either blind fan boys or jaded crybabies. I've been playing RPGs for 20 years and would say I have an open and fair attitude toward each game I play.

    KoA doesn't bring anything really new to the RPG field per se, but manages to take elements from great games and mash into one package. Combat is KoA's strong suit and it puts most games to shame in this category (Skyrim...). My only gripe is that I haven't encountered any opponents that require any real strategy to defeat, which is disappointing. Basically if you are somewhat competent player shouldn't ever die in this game (other than at the intro scene). I've been playing as a Shadowcaster (mage/rogue hybrid) and it's a blast. Switching between weapons and magic is smooth and fast. KoA has some of the best animations for stealth kills I've seen in any type of game. There's something beautiful about crawling up the back of a big Jottun, slitting his throat and watching the blood spray out.

    The main story and quests are on par with current popular wRPGs, nothing terribly impressive or highly engrossing but interesting enough that I'm curious in how it plays out. Main characters lack any real personalities which in turn causes you to be less drawn into the world. I find this to be a growing trend in field (played 160 hrs in Skyrim and I don't think there's a single memorable character in the game, same with my 7 NG+ playthroughs of Dark Souls).

    The world is quite large, but it's really not an open world like a Bethesda game. It's more along the lines of a MMO with interconnecting zones. Quests do a good job of moving you around the zones as does self exploration.

    The crafting systems are so-so. It would have been nice to actually have some type of leveling associated to them instead of the skill point system that's a direct pull from Dragon Age Origins. The talent trees are pretty solid and are reminiscent of WoW's talent trees. All the talents are useful and can cater to how you want to play the game.

    I've encountered a couple very minor glitches so far nothing really major though like Skyrim or Fallout:NV. The biggest issue I've had is with wonky camera angles. One time the camera went into the ground after I killed a guy and I couldn't see the other one I was fighting for 10 seconds or so when the camera righted itself.

    I installed the game on my Xbox HD and load times are generally pretty short.

    Conclusion:
    If you're looking for a fun RPG to waste some time on KoA: Reckoning is definitely worth your time and money. Just don't go in expecting the next best thing in the RPG realm.    … Expand
  3. dragonbillz
    Feb 15, 2012
    8
    I think that Reckoning has a great story and character development that can't be matched. The graphics are very detailed and the levels are huge. I feel like the difficulty is a little unforegiving, but I hope this changes as I get further in the game. This is simply a huge adventure that shouldn't be missed. I give it an 8 for some control issues at some times and the graphics are not theI think that Reckoning has a great story and character development that can't be matched. The graphics are very detailed and the levels are huge. I feel like the difficulty is a little unforegiving, but I hope this changes as I get further in the game. This is simply a huge adventure that shouldn't be missed. I give it an 8 for some control issues at some times and the graphics are not the best that I have seen, but still make a beautiful world.… Expand
  4. greenbean57
    Feb 18, 2012
    8
    First game in a long while I decided to plop 60 dollars on. Former WOW player who gave up on it due to time constraints. This single player game is perfect for me, since I can go at my own pace. Don't have to rely on 40 other people to take hours to assemble a team to do a raid. The game is a tad easy, but I'm sure they'll rectify that. I'm 61hrs in. Where else can you get that muchFirst game in a long while I decided to plop 60 dollars on. Former WOW player who gave up on it due to time constraints. This single player game is perfect for me, since I can go at my own pace. Don't have to rely on 40 other people to take hours to assemble a team to do a raid. The game is a tad easy, but I'm sure they'll rectify that. I'm 61hrs in. Where else can you get that much entertainment for that price.… Expand
  5. megaepiclp
    Feb 25, 2012
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Kingdom Of Amalur: Reckoning My name is Fang of MegaEpicLP and I have recently completed Kingdom of Amalur: Reckoning. I have played it for well over 100 hours and these are my opinions of the game. This is my first review. Reckoning is a great game to play as it incorporates a very stylish and easy to use combat system. Being very easy to use means the game allows you to have a more enjoyable time instead of making you stressed too easily. The combat is not at all difficult but for people that want a challenge, I suggest they take on tougher enemies at lower levels. This is when it can become quite difficult.
    The added feature of â    … Expand
  6. Spinger
    Feb 26, 2012
    8
    I am pleasantly surprised at how much I am enjoying this game! More than anything I was intrigued at the idea of getting some Mass Effect 3 swag just by playing a demo, but after trying it out decided I would give it a go. I definitely do not regret my choice, I'm 20 hours in and loving it! Unlike a lot of people, I enjoy the more 'cartoony' style with the bright colours, a nice changeI am pleasantly surprised at how much I am enjoying this game! More than anything I was intrigued at the idea of getting some Mass Effect 3 swag just by playing a demo, but after trying it out decided I would give it a go. I definitely do not regret my choice, I'm 20 hours in and loving it! Unlike a lot of people, I enjoy the more 'cartoony' style with the bright colours, a nice change of pace from most current gen games. The combat looks and feels good and is easy to pick up, though certainly not the most complex compared to a lot of action games. The fast travel system is handy, and contrary to some other commenters, I actually find the world map very helpful and easy to navigate. The camera is a bit annoying at times, but far from game-breaking, you do have control of it, after all. The story hasn't pulled me in the way some other games have, but I'm still interested to see where it goes. I'm not really into RPG's that much, a lot of commenters are comparing it to Skyrim (which I haven't tried) and Fallout (which I'm sorry to say bored me to tears), so I maybe don't have the same perspective, but I think KoA is just plain fun. Really glad I took a chance on this one, and I hope it does well, congrats to 38 and Big Huge!… Expand
  7. mike21
    Apr 3, 2012
    8
    While it's not perfect, this game was realy fun to play. The combat system is great. The story and character interaction are avarage, but overall this game is worth it for the fun factor alone. I enjoyed it.
  8. JingoJango
    Mar 28, 2012
    8
    Good solid game. Great looking combat. Huge amount of content. Nice character retraining options. Lacked a little variety. Could have had more believable NPCs.
  9. megadude510
    Mar 24, 2012
    8
    A game that has its technical flaws (namely a camera, to be precise), but nonetheless acts as a refresher for the out-done RPG genre. Kingdoms of Amalur offers an expansive world with more than enough content to be worth the cost, and an art style that stands out from most other RPGs, which are now all going for a much more "realistic" tone. The combat and many mechanics are reminiscent ofA game that has its technical flaws (namely a camera, to be precise), but nonetheless acts as a refresher for the out-done RPG genre. Kingdoms of Amalur offers an expansive world with more than enough content to be worth the cost, and an art style that stands out from most other RPGs, which are now all going for a much more "realistic" tone. The combat and many mechanics are reminiscent of both The Elder Scrolls and Fable, but KoA: R manages to put a new spin on them to keep one entertained. Worth renting, if not anything else, makes for a good game if you can't decide on a few.… Expand
  10. bhop123
    Apr 14, 2012
    8
    If you like fun, brutal combat, pretty fantasy graphics, and a long game, reckoning is for you. Its not dark, and gloomy like hardcore rpgs, like skyrim, or the witcher. The world reminds me of a fable mixed in with world of warcraft. Its pretty to look at, as well as the creative monsters it has. i dont want to go into to much detail. But if your interested in something different, in aIf you like fun, brutal combat, pretty fantasy graphics, and a long game, reckoning is for you. Its not dark, and gloomy like hardcore rpgs, like skyrim, or the witcher. The world reminds me of a fable mixed in with world of warcraft. Its pretty to look at, as well as the creative monsters it has. i dont want to go into to much detail. But if your interested in something different, in a creative way, reckoning is your game.… Expand
  11. KOkreTeGamERx
    May 22, 2012
    8
    Awesome game! I love the cartoon graphics. Sick combat moves and great combos. Very good action/rpg. Im only 11hours and have only completed 2 main quest missions, but i have been killing the side missions. To me this game is like Zelda, & Elder Scrolls wrapped up in one, with HUGE bosses.
  12. AfricanRituals
    May 28, 2012
    8
    KoA felt like it should be classified as more of an action RPG. The combat is super deep and well polished, and the main story is great, but the side quests, something that most RPGs put a lot of time into today, all felt the same, and they don't suck you into the story like the main one does. The graphics are hit or miss, the environments looked gorgeous, but the NPC faces all looked likeKoA felt like it should be classified as more of an action RPG. The combat is super deep and well polished, and the main story is great, but the side quests, something that most RPGs put a lot of time into today, all felt the same, and they don't suck you into the story like the main one does. The graphics are hit or miss, the environments looked gorgeous, but the NPC faces all looked like plastic. I really enjoyed KoA, and with hours and hours of gameplay, you should too.… Expand
  13. XboxGamerGuy
    Nov 14, 2012
    8
    Shame the company is gone, was a great game. Had heaps of fun playing it and despite some minor problems this was a great game! Find a game and play it now!
  14. Boogsbay
    Feb 8, 2013
    8
    This game is pretty good. There's a lot of quests in each area, you can create weapons and give them special properties, travel in large areas filled with monsters you fight, and many more. The combat is good but feels repetitive unless you use combos and try other weapons. The story is good but it feels like it could have been better and more engrossing. Overall though this is a great game.
  15. WyattTheAwesome
    May 30, 2013
    8
    The gameplay is good, the graphics are bright and colorful and there is a lot to do in this game. I like the combat a lot, but I personally detest the way it uses its shields and the bows were lacking for me. Definitely worth checking out.
  16. M9ki
    Jul 11, 2013
    8
    I loved this game it was so entertaining and loveable the graphics where so nice as well.This is a good game [worth a try] I'm sad that there company field bankruptcy I could see them making good games for next gen if they where still here
  17. Deusex
    Mar 2, 2014
    8
    Is a single play open world, in a fantasy setting, with levelling up system etc
    Pros:
    Solid main story Average voice acting but good enough Nice colourful artistic graphics Diverse combat, ( dodge, time parries) Great levelling system Able to re spec at anytime Rewarding Cons: Guild missions needed more story Repetitive Boring soundtrack I've put about 50 hrs and that's    Is a single play open world, in a fantasy setting, with levelling up system etc
    Pros:
    Solid main story
    Average voice acting but good enough
    Nice colourful artistic graphics
    Diverse combat, ( dodge, time parries)
    Great levelling system
    Able to re spec at anytime
    Rewarding

    Cons:
    Guild missions needed more story
    Repetitive
    Boring soundtrack

    I've put about 50 hrs and that's all I want to put.    … Expand
  18. Termin8ter
    Dec 8, 2016
    8
    Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, by one of the lead designers of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, one of my favourite ES games to play. Is Reckoning better than Skyrim or Oblivion? No. But does that make it a bad game? Of course not. Reckoning actually has the best combat system I've utilized in an RPG. It feels like a hack'n'slash game type of combat system, which is a good thing. TheKingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, by one of the lead designers of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, one of my favourite ES games to play. Is Reckoning better than Skyrim or Oblivion? No. But does that make it a bad game? Of course not. Reckoning actually has the best combat system I've utilized in an RPG. It feels like a hack'n'slash game type of combat system, which is a good thing. The problem lies at the quests. Most of the quests build up tension really effectively, but the payoff is so disappointing. That is really bad, especially for an RPG. Also, you never feel very important to the world as you do in The Elder Scrolls, Mass Effect, and other great RPG's. You just feel very unimportant in this universe. Though Reckoning has flaws, It's still a solid RPG that you should play eventually.… Expand
  19. Dalaron
    Jun 13, 2015
    8
    It is one of my favorite games, with gorgeous, colorful, and varied environments of a world rich in Celtic mythology and lore!
    It has great game feel with your character being well responsive and having solid gameplay, as well as a good deal of options for customization when it comes to both play style and appearance.
    It's not a perfect game of course, if you are as big of a collector as    It is one of my favorite games, with gorgeous, colorful, and varied environments of a world rich in Celtic mythology and lore!
    It has great game feel with your character being well responsive and having solid gameplay, as well as a good deal of options for customization when it comes to both play style and appearance.
    It's not a perfect game of course, if you are as big of a collector as me, be prepared to be frustrated and aggravated at the fact that there is limited storage space. It also suffers from having the illness that is PLC. Where the DLC is worth it in my opinion, giving variation to the lore and setting, there is an unpleasant bit of tomfoolery with a certain area in the main game. Personally, it left a bad taste in my mouth and hurt this game dearly.

    Nonetheless, the world is large, the combat is fun and satisfying, the visuals are pleasant and the environments are gorgeous, the voice acting is solid and fun, and the where some might not like the plot, the world is rich with lore and quests to make it alone worth the play through.

    If it wasn't for the PLC issue and a few designer choices that weren't for the best, this game would be a 9 or a 10, mainly coming from my love for Celtic Irish folklore and mythology and how well they integrated it into the world of Amalur.

    Final Verdict: 8.3/10
    Highly Recommended!    … Expand
  20. Samanosuke0
    Feb 22, 2016
    8
    Firstly Kingdoms of Amalur is one of the most complete games that i've played and get to be a really unique RPG.

    This game is too big to be described in a simple review, so i will focus em two positive points and two negative points. Kingdoms of Amalur has a gameplay incredible fun, intuitive and easy to master, is necessary only some minutes to know all commands of the games. There    Firstly Kingdoms of Amalur is one of the most complete games that i've played and get to be a really unique RPG.

    This game is too big to be described in a simple review, so i will focus em two positive points and two negative points.

    Kingdoms of Amalur has a gameplay incredible fun, intuitive and easy to master, is necessary only some minutes to know all commands of the games. There is a class system based in skills, but it doesn't restrinct the weapons thatt you can use in the game. Although you can't use some weapon abilities, wich is especific for each class. Freedom is the word in this game. The animations of the skills, magics, and the "reckoning" are amazing!

    The quests is very variated with own unique history. Exemple:

    There is a quest where a man was transformed in a werewolf by the sprites, so you need to investigate and discover what happenned and what to do to revert the situation.

    The second exemple are the "Faction Quests", great quest independent of the main quest with stories full of plot twist and consequences that affects the world of the game.

    The negatvie point is the quantity of quests. This factor can get you to the max level (40) very before the end of game, and when this happens the game loses her fun completely. So don't get making all in your way, but choose the most interesting quests. At the max level the character is too much overpower (especially if you are a magic user), and it's very boring.

    The variety and quality of the side quests obfuscate the main story, wich you can lose the interest too soon if you are a completionist, so be advice!

    The DLCs are very good, but if you can buy only one so get the Legend of Dead Keel, is the best.

    I STRONGLY recommend kingdoms of Amalur. Maybe it's isn't a great RPG, but ate least is a nice, fun and a good one.    … Expand
  21. BrettSiebenhaar
    Aug 13, 2018
    8
    This was an amazing RPG. Very Fable esque! It was just a bummer that this game did not get good advertising which led to very low sales and the company had to close down. The story was great, the gameplay was great, and the graphics, like I said above, very Fable like which I loved. This was actually a non-buggy game which was refreshing, especially from a new developer company. ManyThis was an amazing RPG. Very Fable esque! It was just a bummer that this game did not get good advertising which led to very low sales and the company had to close down. The story was great, the gameplay was great, and the graphics, like I said above, very Fable like which I loved. This was actually a non-buggy game which was refreshing, especially from a new developer company. Many hours spent in this game, but again, the company went broke and had to close, so no DLC or further installments.… Expand
  22. Sceptic
    Feb 8, 2012
    7
    A decidedly average RPG with not an original idea in sight.The story,touted as the work of Bob Salvatore,is bland.Some gameplay elements such as stealth and crafting are decent,but nothing you haven't done before.The good news is that the game is quite lengthy and the combat system is deep.However,tech issues not withstanding,compared to the truly great RPGs of this generation,namelyA decidedly average RPG with not an original idea in sight.The story,touted as the work of Bob Salvatore,is bland.Some gameplay elements such as stealth and crafting are decent,but nothing you haven't done before.The good news is that the game is quite lengthy and the combat system is deep.However,tech issues not withstanding,compared to the truly great RPGs of this generation,namely Skyrim,Dark Souls,Fallout 3 and Mass Effect,KOA:R is just a bit meh.… Expand
  23. krabboss
    Feb 7, 2012
    7
    Plays out too much like an MMO. The zones feel like they were ripped out of any given fantasy MMO - just by their layout and content. There are a fair few fetch quests in the game and a lot of simple excuses to just have you clear out a dungeon. The combat is fine, but even on hard the game is very easy. I found it generally took one or two spells to kill most enemies, which is unfortunatePlays out too much like an MMO. The zones feel like they were ripped out of any given fantasy MMO - just by their layout and content. There are a fair few fetch quests in the game and a lot of simple excuses to just have you clear out a dungeon. The combat is fine, but even on hard the game is very easy. I found it generally took one or two spells to kill most enemies, which is unfortunate given the decent combo system in the game. The crafting systems in the game are some of the best I've seen, at least.… Expand
  24. InformedGamer
    Mar 6, 2012
    7
    This is defintely an MMORPG about to happen. It feels like, looks like and plays like World of Warcraft on XBOX without the multiplayer aspect. It doesn't feel like a traditional RPG much, alot of cutscenes and VERY fast paced combat. Feels like Mortal Kombat with some RPG elements thrown in. It's not a bad game, I just wouldn't call it a "real" RPG. This game will just be tweaked andThis is defintely an MMORPG about to happen. It feels like, looks like and plays like World of Warcraft on XBOX without the multiplayer aspect. It doesn't feel like a traditional RPG much, alot of cutscenes and VERY fast paced combat. Feels like Mortal Kombat with some RPG elements thrown in. It's not a bad game, I just wouldn't call it a "real" RPG. This game will just be tweaked and released as an MMO one day. The story was a little lackluster as well. Worth a try but not at $60.… Expand
  25. Watermelon789
    Apr 1, 2012
    7
    I was expecting a lot more, KOAR didn't drowned like many forgettable games out there but it's not a impressive game . With visuals like the Fable series, combat similar to Fable and and an interesting world may convince RPG fans. I'm not that person, but I'm fine that I played KOAR. The begining has its hits and miss and the conversations are hilarious , the facial animations of the mainI was expecting a lot more, KOAR didn't drowned like many forgettable games out there but it's not a impressive game . With visuals like the Fable series, combat similar to Fable and and an interesting world may convince RPG fans. I'm not that person, but I'm fine that I played KOAR. The begining has its hits and miss and the conversations are hilarious , the facial animations of the main characters is lifeless and the same description it's the same for the person talking to your avatar. Cartoonish violence filled with gory scenes it's a little bit out of contrast by the reason that everything is cute and out of place. However , if you're eager to try KoA and you want to play something fresh , the game delivers , while not the " perfect " recommendable game, you wont feel "stolen" or disappointed .… Expand
  26. QuiterRaga
    Mar 8, 2012
    7
    A game that has potential to do a lot more, seems like they just took every big name producer and hoped for a smash hit.I look forward for the sequels in the series and hopefully better leveling mechanics.
  27. SkipperPenguin
    Feb 26, 2012
    7
    This is a good game, like some movies are meant to be popcorn films, this is a popcorn game. It is enjoyable, but I have not yet discovered the wealth of choice and change that I had hoped for. Quite the opposite, the story feels pretty directed as if I really have no control over the overall story...I could be wrong, but at this stage (10 hours in) I have not felt in control of the storyline.
  28. GuruJoeyy
    Dec 19, 2012
    7
    All in all, I liked the game a ton, I felt that is brought a lot to the table in terms of ways you could play your character. But I'm afraid the replay value just wasn't there for me, I know I could create another class to play and such, but I just didn't feel it. This game would do well to make it feel more open world, and less like the main story is drawing you in. I only drifted fromAll in all, I liked the game a ton, I felt that is brought a lot to the table in terms of ways you could play your character. But I'm afraid the replay value just wasn't there for me, I know I could create another class to play and such, but I just didn't feel it. This game would do well to make it feel more open world, and less like the main story is drawing you in. I only drifted from the main story twice, mostly cause I didn't feel like the side quests were even interesting. It does well to drag you into the main story line but I feel like it did a fairly bad job at making you interested in the world overall. The story to me was relatively short and the ending very dissatisfying unless they plan a sequel. Which if they don't do a sequel then this game might as well just be tossed away cause you learned nothing of what you truly are. Apparently you are a protector of destiny or something but it doesn't really delve into it too much, I loved the overall story IDEA but the background behind it was relatively dissatisfying. I felt this game shouldn't taken a more God of War/Dante's Inferno approach to combat. The final boss was extremely awesome looking but the mechanics weren't all that revolutionary or fun, but the boss itself was cool. Overall a sequel I'd definitely rent it, but I don't think I'd buy it, not that no one else should but I think you should rent it for a few days before you decide whether to buy it.… Expand
  29. Acquiredempire
    Feb 18, 2012
    7
    Decent start to a new RPG game series. Lacking in the story department and ending is lackluster but the combat was fun throughout. Worth the play through but do your self a favor and get it used in a few months.
  30. Sasquatch
    Mar 18, 2012
    7
    This game is awesome. Has a fantastic combat system and an interesting world. But the game gets a bit boring after you beat it. There's so much loot in the game that you can't use because you didn't level it correctly. So it leaves me only caring if it's a certain type of loot with better stats. If not I sell it and move on. It feels like it's missing something, but is well worth buyingThis game is awesome. Has a fantastic combat system and an interesting world. But the game gets a bit boring after you beat it. There's so much loot in the game that you can't use because you didn't level it correctly. So it leaves me only caring if it's a certain type of loot with better stats. If not I sell it and move on. It feels like it's missing something, but is well worth buying it. I see myself returning to it some day soon, but not too soon.… Expand
  31. sias
    Jun 4, 2012
    7
    A well polished yet unremarkable RPG with the aesthetics of WoW/Fable, the combat of God of War and the game world mechanics of Skyrim. GOOD: Wonderfully detailed environments with an impressively huge world to explore; Massive amounts of customisation for character levelling allowing you to create many different builds; Fairly decent story that could become very interesting if built uponA well polished yet unremarkable RPG with the aesthetics of WoW/Fable, the combat of God of War and the game world mechanics of Skyrim. GOOD: Wonderfully detailed environments with an impressively huge world to explore; Massive amounts of customisation for character levelling allowing you to create many different builds; Fairly decent story that could become very interesting if built upon in further sequels; Tons of loot to find and a nice clear weapon system; Superb combat mechanics that are easy to understand. BAD: Camera struggles during battles leading to unnecessary deaths as you become unable to see attacking enemies off-screen; Combat isn't particularly challenging as there is no stamina bar present so you can essentially stun-lock almost any enemy to death; Dialogue with NPCs is odd with a random mixture of list based options like Skyrim and a conversation wheel like Mass Effect; Invisible walls are present everywhere which severely reduces mobility as you must walk an entire stretch of a cliff just to find that one part where the game allows you to jump down; Enemy types are unremarkable and generally unthreatening making many enemy encounters really quite dull. OVERALL: KoA:R is a great, fun RPG with a brilliant combat and levelling system and a colourful world. Yet there's no denying that the overall package is really quite generic with a plethora of borrowed game mechanics which are presented in uninteresting ways. This game so obviously wants to marry itself with Skyrim, but in doing so it completely loses any sense of identity. And with genre re-defining RPGs like Dark Souls, The Witcher 2 and even Dragon's Dogma around, KoA:R struggles to find its place. But if you're after a solid straight forward RPG experience, this game might appeal. Just don't expect to find anything new here.… Expand
  32. SmittShow
    Feb 7, 2012
    7
    I really wanted to like this game because of how much I love RA Salvatore books and how much I love fantasy. The cut scenes are terrible in this game, the lips don't move in sync with the lips all the time and the quests are way to similar to WOW quests, the only reason I suffered through these quests in WOW was because at least I could do them/interact with other people. The game playI really wanted to like this game because of how much I love RA Salvatore books and how much I love fantasy. The cut scenes are terrible in this game, the lips don't move in sync with the lips all the time and the quests are way to similar to WOW quests, the only reason I suffered through these quests in WOW was because at least I could do them/interact with other people. The game play itself is really awesome, it is how they should make future MMO's instead of point and click. I liked how colourful the world was and how big it was but having to constantly move the camera around became annoying very fast. If you aren't done Skyrim yet don't bother picking this up you will end up going back to Skyrim. Not a bad game but very little greatness in it.… Expand
  33. HarryManback
    Feb 10, 2012
    7
    The game is decent if you like loot based games. After beating the game I can say that the story is marginal at best. It lacks anything that would differentiate itself from other fantasy stories. The combat is solid but it will get monotonous after a while no matter what kind of build you make.

    If you come into this game expecting a deep story that will keep you interested, you will    The game is decent if you like loot based games. After beating the game I can say that the story is marginal at best. It lacks anything that would differentiate itself from other fantasy stories. The combat is solid but it will get monotonous after a while no matter what kind of build you make.

    If you come into this game expecting a deep story that will keep you interested, you will probably be let down. But if you come into this game knowing that it is all about the loot, you are going to have some fun. This game is suited best to people that enjoy Diablo 2 and Borderlands. I was only able to really enjoy it for one play through but that is just me, your mileage may vary.    … Expand
  34. seasley
    Feb 10, 2012
    7
    I really wanted to get into this game, unfortunately, its just not happening. It is obvious that this game started its development as an MMO and thats not a good thing. The world is completely forgettable. The NPCs keep telling my character how important he is but I never get the feeling that I've done anything at all. Its really too bad because this game has so much potential. Its soI really wanted to get into this game, unfortunately, its just not happening. It is obvious that this game started its development as an MMO and thats not a good thing. The world is completely forgettable. The NPCs keep telling my character how important he is but I never get the feeling that I've done anything at all. Its really too bad because this game has so much potential. Its so close to epic and exhilarating. The game is still fun and I would recommend it to anyone interested in a Western RPG with solid gameplay.… Expand
  35. Loonestar
    Feb 13, 2012
    7
    Pretty decent for what it is: an awkward hybrid of Fable, Dragon Age and Oblivion. The world is beautiful, but can feel claustrophobic when you run into invisible barriers. There is freedom to explore and pursue countless quests, but none of them feel important and while fun, the combat soon becomes repetitious and boring. Basically, every feature of the game, from story, to combat toPretty decent for what it is: an awkward hybrid of Fable, Dragon Age and Oblivion. The world is beautiful, but can feel claustrophobic when you run into invisible barriers. There is freedom to explore and pursue countless quests, but none of them feel important and while fun, the combat soon becomes repetitious and boring. Basically, every feature of the game, from story, to combat to exploration can be summed up by saying "it's good, but........"… Expand
  36. XerSMMack
    Feb 25, 2012
    7
    My ps3 died with Skyrim in it! In the interim, my wife thought that Valentine's Day would be a good time to cheer me up with a different RPG. I love Schilling and wanted this game to be great, but alas it was not. The combat is the selling point for this game. It is better than most RPG's but a far cry from the likes of GoW and other combat oriented action games. The "open world" is theMy ps3 died with Skyrim in it! In the interim, my wife thought that Valentine's Day would be a good time to cheer me up with a different RPG. I love Schilling and wanted this game to be great, but alas it was not. The combat is the selling point for this game. It is better than most RPG's but a far cry from the likes of GoW and other combat oriented action games. The "open world" is the most frustrating part of this game. You cannot jump and cannot move through many invisible barriers. You must also travel to each new area through a corridor (seriously?) I found the crafting skills to be very pointless as you can do so much more without wasting time on them. This game LACKS HEART and that is the most upsetting. You feel absolutely nothing for your character and even less for any of the NPCs. I have played near 50 hours and have gotten so bored I feel like I need to force myself to pick it up and finish just to get it done. This had a lot of potential and the 'world' of Amalur should survive this first venture, but it had better come back strong next time.… Expand
  37. Kietz91
    May 15, 2012
    7
    Deep, but static. Pretty, but uninteresting. Fun, but largely repetitious. KoA is very much a mixed bag of good ideas, decent execution, and weak design choice. While It's deep character progression allows for many vastly different builds, your character largely remains flat and without means of showing any real personality - whether it be through player actions or through the story. TheDeep, but static. Pretty, but uninteresting. Fun, but largely repetitious. KoA is very much a mixed bag of good ideas, decent execution, and weak design choice. While It's deep character progression allows for many vastly different builds, your character largely remains flat and without means of showing any real personality - whether it be through player actions or through the story. The world, while very well design and interesting to look at is, sadly, very static. I never felt like I was actually part of the world, because it never felt that my actions left any real impact. This is a sad thing, being that it is something that usually pushes games of this type and size. Without it, it leaves the whole experience feeling rather flat. The combat, largely the game's strongest element, is very well done. It easily stands with some of the best titles in today's action games, and is certainly a highlight in today's action-rpg genre. At the same time, lacking many of the other elements seen in deeper roleplaying games, the game uses it's combat as a crutch, and, overtime, can become rather repetitious. KoA is not a bad game by any means. Between the good and the bad, I left having a pretty fun time with it. At the same time, I wish it the developers tried at something a little more. They created a large, nice looking world with an interesting story and faction quests, but left that world largely static, player choice largely non-existent, and the game itself too focused on the combat alone, tiring it's biggest pro long before the game ended.… Expand
  38. 1voiceoreason
    May 15, 2012
    7
    Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning is a good game, but that just it. Its simply a good game technically, visually, and gameplay wise. Everything in the game is good except the combat which is great. I wouldn't compare this game to skyrim or other rpg's like that. It more closely resembles the fable franchise and that type of third person action game. I look at the things they choose to focus onKingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning is a good game, but that just it. Its simply a good game technically, visually, and gameplay wise. Everything in the game is good except the combat which is great. I wouldn't compare this game to skyrim or other rpg's like that. It more closely resembles the fable franchise and that type of third person action game. I look at the things they choose to focus on in terms of world building and I am reminded of a MMO. Except this MMO is deserted and I'm the only one playing. If your going to make a MMO-esque experience like this I really think co-op needs to be seriously looked at. Other than that I just think the game is really middle of the road and didn't give me a reason to want to play for 100+ hours. I didn't even finish the main quest before I realized i was forcing my self to play it just to finish and that is not why i play games.… Expand
  39. JayPlays
    Jan 27, 2013
    7
    Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning is a very good game, if you're an RPG fan then KoA will be a welcome addition to your collection, just don't expect anything revolutionary. KoA is a beautiful game, the environments and character models and all lovely, it's just a shame that the camera has been angled in such an obstructive and annoying way. There is a very high level of characterKingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning is a very good game, if you're an RPG fan then KoA will be a welcome addition to your collection, just don't expect anything revolutionary. KoA is a beautiful game, the environments and character models and all lovely, it's just a shame that the camera has been angled in such an obstructive and annoying way. There is a very high level of character customisation in this game which is great. The skill and levelling systems are executed very well, it's fun to distribute your skill points amongst the 3 disciplines and skills such as blacksmithing and sagecrafting are fun to experiment with, but this is really just more of the same that we have seen from other games. The story is fairly unique, however there are only 1 or 2 interesting characters in the whole game. NPC's feel lifeless! Combat is where this game really shines, there are an insane number of weapons and spells to experiment with, delivering combos is fun and tactile, the 3 disciplines are pretty well balanced. There is an absurd amount of content in this game, after completing the main story, I had barely even scraped the surface; it's just a shame that most quests are your generic kill and fetch quests. The world is huge and a pleasure to explore. Overall KoA is a great game, it just doesn't really try anything new. It's not RPG of the decade, but it's still pretty fun to play.… Expand
  40. Captiosus
    Feb 7, 2012
    6
    Are the "professional reviewers" playing the same game I am? Because giving this game marks as high as Skyrim is ridiculous. The menu and dialog system is clunky and obtrusive, graphically the game's backgrounds look great but the character models look like they were made back in 2007. The music is decent, but nowhere near the same level as work by other composers for RPGs or MMOs (such asAre the "professional reviewers" playing the same game I am? Because giving this game marks as high as Skyrim is ridiculous. The menu and dialog system is clunky and obtrusive, graphically the game's backgrounds look great but the character models look like they were made back in 2007. The music is decent, but nowhere near the same level as work by other composers for RPGs or MMOs (such as Blizzard's Russell Brower or Jeremy Soule) , and the sound effects range from so-so to ear grating. Texture pop in and texture glitches abound, the draw distance is absolutely horrid, the plot has been terribly disjointed, and the God of War-meets-Fable style of arcade-y combat gameplay rewards melee combat heavily over ranged and magic. The world isn't an "open world" format, it's an open area where players are limited to exploring specific areas with copious amounts of load time transitions between designated areas. ||| There is enough here for me to rate it slightly above average and keep me interested in the future of 38Studios and Big Huge Games, but compared to other games in the genre it's not worthy of an 8, 9 or 10 score. Ultimately, this is a game people might play for a month to tide them over and then trade it in so they can pick up Mass Effect 3. Aside: Now watch as all the fanboys come out to rate down this review because truth hurts. 12 hours in and I'm already deathly bored of the "great combat system". Oh, sure, I can make another class or build my class a different way - only to play essentially the same way. The game is mediocre and will NEVER be remembered in the same league as Bioware's or Bethesda's WRPGs. It's "Too Human", all over again: Lots of hype, lots of chest pounding, and ultimately forgettable.… Expand
  41. Velendris
    Feb 7, 2012
    6
    I wanted to like this game but there's just so much holding it back, the color palette and graphic design is pretty upsetting. It's like they went through a World of Warcraft filter and picked out the worst color combinations imaginable. And the NPC faces, they make Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion facial animation look good. Along with wrestling with the camera throughout your play session thisI wanted to like this game but there's just so much holding it back, the color palette and graphic design is pretty upsetting. It's like they went through a World of Warcraft filter and picked out the worst color combinations imaginable. And the NPC faces, they make Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion facial animation look good. Along with wrestling with the camera throughout your play session this games leaves much to be desired.… Expand
  42. jthompson
    Feb 8, 2012
    6
    in the first three hours i spent with KoA, my 360 crashed three times. i'm not a big fan of the cartoony look of the game either. also why are all the npc's teeth blue. its very distracting. other than that the combat is fun, but i haven't gotten far enough into the story to know if it will become interesting enough to keep me playing. for the $60 that i spent hoping this game would bein the first three hours i spent with KoA, my 360 crashed three times. i'm not a big fan of the cartoony look of the game either. also why are all the npc's teeth blue. its very distracting. other than that the combat is fun, but i haven't gotten far enough into the story to know if it will become interesting enough to keep me playing. for the $60 that i spent hoping this game would be worth it, i'll keep playing it. i just hope it gets better. so far i'm pretty disappointed. the demo preformed better on my 360 than the final product has which seems a little backwards to me. based on first impressions the best i can give KoA is a 6/10.… Expand
  43. Comrade_Critic
    Feb 13, 2012
    6
    If you combined the most recent Fable with the first of the Knights of the Old Republic, and took out all the engaging story elements of the latter, you'd fave Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning. As an RPG junky, I'll probably play the heck out of this game until Mass Effect 3 comes out, but if you're not as into this genre as I am, this game is not for you. Most disappointing are the characterIf you combined the most recent Fable with the first of the Knights of the Old Republic, and took out all the engaging story elements of the latter, you'd fave Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning. As an RPG junky, I'll probably play the heck out of this game until Mass Effect 3 comes out, but if you're not as into this genre as I am, this game is not for you. Most disappointing are the character interaction scenes. They are reminiscent of something on the original Xbox. Just not impressive. There is a kernel of a good game here, but it feels rushed. Only recommended for serious RPG junkies who've already finished Skyrim. Otherwise, just skip.… Expand
  44. VermillionHaze
    Feb 16, 2012
    6
    I really wanted to like this game. However it's cross promotions with Mass Effect and it's cool art and screens seem to point to a unique and engaging experience. However this is not the case. The actual game is better then mediocre titles like Risen or Eco Draconis but feels extremely lazy and uninspiring compared to any of the genres staples. It's cartoonish look and fable clonedI really wanted to like this game. However it's cross promotions with Mass Effect and it's cool art and screens seem to point to a unique and engaging experience. However this is not the case. The actual game is better then mediocre titles like Risen or Eco Draconis but feels extremely lazy and uninspiring compared to any of the genres staples. It's cartoonish look and fable cloned mechanics leave you wishing they bothered to put more thought into the core gameplay then trying to convince people it's good with flash and theatrics.… Expand
  45. aadms
    Jul 14, 2013
    6
    This game should be renamed Kingdoms of Amalur: 1001 dull side quests. Even the main story itself unfolded as nothing more than going on simple scavenger hunts, on after another. There was nothing compelling storywise, which is a shame because the premise of the world of Amalur is very interesting. but not when you present the saga in a MMO format. I'm not here with my friends on lineThis game should be renamed Kingdoms of Amalur: 1001 dull side quests. Even the main story itself unfolded as nothing more than going on simple scavenger hunts, on after another. There was nothing compelling storywise, which is a shame because the premise of the world of Amalur is very interesting. but not when you present the saga in a MMO format. I'm not here with my friends on line just to level up and gain loot, I wanted to play an epic solo rpg. But, after 19 days and 102 real game time hours, Kingdoms of Amalur has left very little impression on me. I stayed away from this game originally because of its characture artwork and oversized weapons because I just couldn't take a game too seriously when it looks like a cartoon. But with the drought of rpg games this past year (Mass Effect 3 rpg of the year. LOL) I downloaded the demo and was intriguied. I have to say that this world is impressive with the artwork, lore, the writing, the voice acting, and all the side quests they put into it; yet, as far an entertaining solo-game is concerened, it doesn't come together. The missions are so simple and non-eventful that it becomes dull after so many hours. Amalur plays like a game where The Elder Scrolls had a one-night stand with War of Warcraft and left their offspring on the doorstep of Fable to be raised. I recognize the effort they put into this, but the direction of how it was to entertain me falls short.… Expand
  46. SpunkyMonkey
    Oct 17, 2012
    6
    Yawn. Whilst KOA:R has it's moments, it's just too repetitive and tiresome overall to be deemed as anything more than a filler. The lush graphics and Fable-esq music create a superb fairy-tale environment, and the combat is good - often allowing for free-flowing, fun battles - however it's just a shame that there's no real game to back all that up. After a while even the combat becomesYawn. Whilst KOA:R has it's moments, it's just too repetitive and tiresome overall to be deemed as anything more than a filler. The lush graphics and Fable-esq music create a superb fairy-tale environment, and the combat is good - often allowing for free-flowing, fun battles - however it's just a shame that there's no real game to back all that up. After a while even the combat becomes boring simply because of the complete lack of challenge once you've hit the level 15-20 mark (which is barley a 1/3 of the way into the game), and all those environments count for nothing when you realize that they contain nothing but dull quest/character after dull quest/character. In fact I really can't overstate how dull and underdeveloped most of these characters are. Very rarely does the overall story ark ever feel relevant, and something else which doesn't help matters is the fact that the loot system just means you're constantly tripping over crap items and forever organizing junk. Also, the leveling system (which has received so much praise) actually hinders you for the first 5-10 levels as you try and figure out how to play - it's messy and unsatisfying, with me only finding any real fun in playing a Chakram wielding sorcerer. There's certainly some good to be found in KOA:R, and for around 10 hours I really enjoyed it, but 10 hours out of a 200-odd hour package is a small percentage and there's just so much work involved in getting to those good bits that after a while you really can't be bothered.… Expand
  47. uh-huh
    Feb 7, 2012
    6
    Ignore the fanboys, they'll be out in force for this one, doing all they can to inflate the score. The game is mediocre at best. The graphics are sub-Fable. It suffers from terrible pop up and texture problems. There is literally nothing original on offer. The developers have made the length of the game a major selling point, but when a game is as bland and unmemorable as this one, thatIgnore the fanboys, they'll be out in force for this one, doing all they can to inflate the score. The game is mediocre at best. The graphics are sub-Fable. It suffers from terrible pop up and texture problems. There is literally nothing original on offer. The developers have made the length of the game a major selling point, but when a game is as bland and unmemorable as this one, that quickly becomes another minus. Especially when you realise most of the game is made up of fetch quests. This would have been much better if it had been released in 2005.… Expand
  48. ghorahn
    Jun 26, 2012
    6
    I made the mistake, when I first started playing this game, of doing every single quest in an area before I moved on. Before I knew it, I'd massively out-leveled the game and every fight except golems and boss fights were one-AoE fights. And after I leave the Sidhe area, I stopped finding the quests nearly as engaging...and before long, I was basically checking my watch with every quest toI made the mistake, when I first started playing this game, of doing every single quest in an area before I moved on. Before I knew it, I'd massively out-leveled the game and every fight except golems and boss fights were one-AoE fights. And after I leave the Sidhe area, I stopped finding the quests nearly as engaging...and before long, I was basically checking my watch with every quest to see how much longer I had to do this. So I started to get back on track of just doing the main quests. Now I'm just trying to force myself to the end so I feel like I got my money's worth. The game is well made, sure, but it's just not that interesting or fun. And inventory management...that's never some I enjoy in a game.… Expand
  49. Zyrocalt
    May 25, 2012
    6
    A different and unique Game,The art style is great,The graphics makes you happy,The music is like taken from a magical fantasy world. This game feels like a mix of fable and elder scrolls. and with a little bit of dragon age,the art style reminds me of world of warcraft,The story is that typical you are the chose one of some sort,I wont spoil to much for you.And sometimes it feels moreA different and unique Game,The art style is great,The graphics makes you happy,The music is like taken from a magical fantasy world. This game feels like a mix of fable and elder scrolls. and with a little bit of dragon age,the art style reminds me of world of warcraft,The story is that typical you are the chose one of some sort,I wont spoil to much for you.And sometimes it feels more like a action game then a RPG.And the lockpicking mini game is pretty weird and too easy,And the story seems a bit aimed for young kids and this game could use a more depth to it.Voice acting could have been better but its pretty good,No game is perfect.And this game would fit with a co-op system,i actually thought that when i got this game. But anyway,Kingdom of amalur is a good but mediocre game,And its difficult for those that come from other big rpg games like elder scrolls or dragon age to fall in love with this. Seems difficult to roleplay in this world and get to know its lore from what you are used too,But if youare a big rpg fan you gottatry this.its a fun game.… Expand
  50. wafflebott
    Feb 7, 2012
    6
    Game is a single player MMO with Fable-ish graphics. Combat feels a bit like Darksiders but not quite as fun. I feel the Penny Arcade mention was payola-esque in nature, calling this an open world game is like calling an escalator a roller coaster.

    It's an OK game, fine for killing some time. It's great for people who don't want to read any text, as they include color coded *get on with    Game is a single player MMO with Fable-ish graphics. Combat feels a bit like Darksiders but not quite as fun. I feel the Penny Arcade mention was payola-esque in nature, calling this an open world game is like calling an escalator a roller coaster.

    It's an OK game, fine for killing some time. It's great for people who don't want to read any text, as they include color coded *get on with the action* text and everything is fully voiced. But, I find it lacks in character, I'm not particularly attached to any in game character or place and the designers seem to be "embarrassing uncles" on the humor scale.    … Expand
  51. LogicIncarnate
    Feb 23, 2012
    6
    Kingdoms of Amalure: Reckoning is the result of trying to include as much as you can in a game without really focusing on anything in particular. Built as a pre-cursor to a planned MMO, It feels as though a group of people sat around a table and made an honest attempt to build a game that contained â
  52. DreadNoise
    Mar 13, 2012
    6
    (BTW my score means NOTHING. Score is in no way more informative than the Review. Read. Now.)
    Kingdoms of Amalur, where o where do i begin. Well let's start with the positive then move onto the worst parts shall we? Alrighty then.
    Ahem, Kingdoms of Amalur has combat that carves our it's own little niche. It IS just that distinct, if you've seen the trailer for the game then you've seen    (BTW my score means NOTHING. Score is in no way more informative than the Review. Read. Now.)
    Kingdoms of Amalur, where o where do i begin. Well let's start with the positive then move onto the worst parts shall we? Alrighty then.
    Ahem, Kingdoms of Amalur has combat that carves our it's own little niche. It IS just that distinct, if you've seen the trailer for the game then you've seen that combat works like a cross between a fighting game and a regular RPG. For instance, ever wanted to use a Greatsword and then immediately switch to Daggers to get a Air combo? You can. And, it's customisible. Oh, what do i mean you ask? Well, what i mean is that the trailer shows NEXT TO NOTHING about just how many different combos you can get, Greatsword airlaunch into Dagger combo is not even scratching the surface, you could spend hours, if not DAYS doing the different combos, so combat will never, ever, get old. Not to mention just how Flexible your character can be, ever wanted to use magic will Pimp slappin' **** with a Hammer? You can! Ever wanted to Shanky-ity Shank people but still able to attack enemies in direct combat without having to run like a **** You can! Ever wanted to be all three types of fighter? (Warrior Rogue Mage) You can!
    One of the other things that makes this game different is the Art style, see, i still to this day play Oblivion. Why? Simple. I like Manga, so playing a game that looks SO MUCH like a cartoon just comes like breathing, and as such my opinion on the Art style is tainted, really, as it's a personal fav that makes me like cartoon art styles. So just watch the Trailer and decide for yourself if you like looking at the game, anyways now i have to, unfortunetly, get on to the WORST this game has to offer.
    Ahem, the environments, they are so god damn unoriginal it HURTS, i played Oblivion and was mesmerised by the sheer beauty of the game because of its sheer simplicity; It doesn't create memorable environments, it creates FAMILIAR environments, because, the way the game was made was that it was a Textbook Fantasy game, and as such, everything you did in the game ment you could be the Hero (Or the Villian) Of a story. Amalur however tries and falls flat on its face when trying to replicate such an iconic theme, what i mean is, Amalur is sooo distant from Textbook fantasy you can't relate to it, but it doesn't go so far as say, Morrwind, in where being in a unfamiliar place with strange people made it GOOD, Amalur does it in such a way that makes it BAD, and as such, the environments (Despite being wonderfully colourful) scuk major ass. Nothing is memorable, and nothing feels like you could relate to it, but not so strongly it was interesting. Now the soundtrack, is decent, now don't get me wrong, i don't hate the music, but i don't like it either. The music fits, but out of context, it would be terrible, and as such, that's my opinion of it; Good in game bad outside of it. And one thing i'd like to mention is that the Title screen theme for the game sounds like Spiderman. Seriously. SPIDERMAN.
    Oh, yes, lets talk about the Characters. Now, again, don't get me wrong, there are interesting Characters at every turn, BUT THAT'S JUST THE PROBLEM. They try TOO hard to make interesting Characters. For instance, in the very first town in the game, you meet this woman that is waiting for her Husband to come home from the war that's going on. But while out exploring you find; gasp; a Death Notice that says that her Husband died. And when you tell her, she says, and i kid you not, "Oh my hubby has returned to me! Thank you!". Yep, as it turns out, she was waiting for his Death Notice; Not him. While yes, this seems at first like all the side quests are good, no, there not. For instance, one can get tired of the Royal treatment very, very quickly in this game, you could get emotionally invested in this character, only for you to have to say Goodbye 10 minutes later. It's frustrating when every GOOD character, every character that you can actually feel emotions towards, just gets benched 5 minutes afterwards. Why couldn't they have, i don't know, maybe, HAVE THESE CHARACTERS CONTRIBUTE TO THE PLOT AFTER YOU DO A SIDE QUEST FOR THEM! Geez, what a missed opportunity 38.
    Now onto the story, the Main story falls flat on it's face as it is generic, with no real reason to do it beside just to get those Achievement points and "Advance the plot". HA! Like it was that good.
    Overall i have to say that if you want a game to play, get this game. It's pure fun spoiled just by the stupid plot and bland environments. BUT, if you want another Mass Effect, then look elsewhere.    … Expand
  53. MalFet1999
    Apr 25, 2012
    6
    An RPG like KoA:Real should be more than this. The combat is engaging, but becomes repetitive, and fateshifting makes any battle a sinch. Even respecing your character somehow lacks the feeling of true customization. Frankly, I'm underwhelmed by every aspect, but character interactions deserve a special place in gaming hell. Your character looks like it's completely spaced out, and alwaysAn RPG like KoA:Real should be more than this. The combat is engaging, but becomes repetitive, and fateshifting makes any battle a sinch. Even respecing your character somehow lacks the feeling of true customization. Frankly, I'm underwhelmed by every aspect, but character interactions deserve a special place in gaming hell. Your character looks like it's completely spaced out, and always a little surprise by the horizon. Conversation scenes look like someone's class project, constantly recycling the same gestures. There is no feeling of immersion, and for a game of this scope, that's a death sentence in my book. This game could have been a contender, but this isn't horse shoes or hand grenades.… Expand
  54. Cornuelez
    Aug 6, 2014
    6
    Early into playing , KoA seemed like a solid transition from the Bethesda RPGs, with its smooth battle system, fastened pace, abundant loot, and it's colorful graphic scheme(a little outdated, but a nice change after having played WAY too much skyrim). Despite the games camera issues, dismal NPCs, and gameplay flaws I couldn't put the controller down. I couldn't get enough of the combat,Early into playing , KoA seemed like a solid transition from the Bethesda RPGs, with its smooth battle system, fastened pace, abundant loot, and it's colorful graphic scheme(a little outdated, but a nice change after having played WAY too much skyrim). Despite the games camera issues, dismal NPCs, and gameplay flaws I couldn't put the controller down. I couldn't get enough of the combat, fighting through every cave, dungeon, and keep I could just to amass loot and xp. It was really enjoyable for awhile, but when the combat started to lose some of its charm, I began to realize how lacking the rest of the game actually was.

    The side quests proved to be very monotonous, with very little or no strategy involved, and were almost completely void of any engaging narrative. The main story, which was so dull it seemed half-assed, didn't do the game much justice either. After awhile I felt like I was playing a game with very little to look forward to. The constant kill this, kill that hack and slash attitude of the game had really worn itself out after 50 hours of play, and the game became progressively more tedious as I moved on. Overall I don't think this was a horrible game by any means, and it does have some engaging elements, but just because it stylistically plays like an mmo doesn't really excuse it's poor storytelling, weak character interaction, and it's blatant repetitiveness. I honestly believe this game had the potential to be great, but the finished product fell disappointingly short.    … Expand
  55. osprey
    Mar 10, 2012
    5
    After playing the demo for this game I was very excited to play this game and chose it over The Darkness 2 to buy even though I had played and LOVED The Darkness 1. At first I thought I had made the right choice but as I continued to play the game I discovered that I wasn't really having any fun. I completed the game, doing all the side quests and faction quests and almost all of theAfter playing the demo for this game I was very excited to play this game and chose it over The Darkness 2 to buy even though I had played and LOVED The Darkness 1. At first I thought I had made the right choice but as I continued to play the game I discovered that I wasn't really having any fun. I completed the game, doing all the side quests and faction quests and almost all of the achievements but it never really became fun. I don't know what was missing, just something very flat about the experience. The combat I will agree was excellent but there was nothing unique about the game. It seemed to be bits and pieces of many better games. In the end I just couldn't imagine paying more for dlc and so traded it in. Sadly , for a game I was so excited to play I felt very let down. I wanted to love it but just couldn't and can't even really say I like it.… Expand
  56. youngzen69
    Feb 8, 2012
    5
    Okay, if one has played the demo one has played this game! I really wanted to like this game. After only 12 hours of playing this game just grudging though boring fetch quest after boring fetch quest hoping that maybe the best is yet to come. I never want to pick this game up and play this game again. Back to Dark Souls for me. This game is all hype and no substance. First, lets start offOkay, if one has played the demo one has played this game! I really wanted to like this game. After only 12 hours of playing this game just grudging though boring fetch quest after boring fetch quest hoping that maybe the best is yet to come. I never want to pick this game up and play this game again. Back to Dark Souls for me. This game is all hype and no substance. First, lets start off with the story. The story is filled with so many unpronounceable words that it is largely forgettable and takes one right out of the experience. Second, if the experience isn't an immersive experience, who cares about game-play. Thirdly, the cut-scenes just felt very uninspired and dead. Fourthly, This game is not a true open world kinda game, nor is it truly linear either. So what do I mean? The main story itself is linear. The story itself will remain static from beginning to ending and nothing u do in the game will changed that. Which is ironic since this game is suppose to be about having no fate. But their are plenty of fetch quest to detour you from the main quest in other directions giving one the iIlusion of an open world. At best this game deserved a 6/10. I am giving it a 5/10… Expand
  57. charlius2
    May 24, 2012
    5
    Big colourful world which turns out to be very dull.. A few good moments.. some good combat for a while then becoming monotonous. The characters and story are just not worth investing in. You will have to have the patients of a saint once those cutscenes start to roll for the voice acting and characters are atrocious.. This is a game i can imagine a 10 year old liking.. maybe...
  58. Auburok
    Feb 12, 2012
    5
    A generic RPG seemingly devoid of the all-star talent they've advertised at every opportunity. Todd McFarlane has either become extremely unimaginative, or produced a few sets of armor and weapons and called it a day. R.A. Salvatore urinated out the most boring dialog I've seen in an RPG. While this game delivers for the first hour or so, it's easily something that loses it's luster. TheA generic RPG seemingly devoid of the all-star talent they've advertised at every opportunity. Todd McFarlane has either become extremely unimaginative, or produced a few sets of armor and weapons and called it a day. R.A. Salvatore urinated out the most boring dialog I've seen in an RPG. While this game delivers for the first hour or so, it's easily something that loses it's luster. The combat is solid enough, with a few skills that are pretty useless since that game can be beat by mashing "A" until everything is dead. This includes the several dozen boss fights that involve the boss summoning ten or so cronies to fight you at the same time. It becomes routine, mechanical, and boring. The lack of variation in character's attire and weapons offers no excitement for acquiring loot. The quest lines leave much to be desired, and are relatively devoid of any interesting elements. Some of the more interesting ones almost seem plucked from Elder Scrolls games of the past, with characters such as the Lord of the Hunt and curses involving such a person. Combat offers many paths, so long as you want to use one of the nine weapons provided. It feels rather limited for a fantasy RPG, to be honest. Many of the abilities provided for each of the classes (finesse, might and sorcery) are ultimately flashy and useless, especially in the games offered "hard mode" where stagger occurs with just about every hit. A majority of the game will be spent mashing that "A" button and guzzling health potions to get through the game, rather than any amount of skill.

    The game doesn't seem to be as free roaming as advertised. A lot of the area is inaccessible and the map leads you to believe it's a lot larger than it is. Unfortunately, a lot of the land if uninspired, and there's not a whole lot to get lost in when exploring. Most exploring will be pushed by quests, rather than wanderlust.

    The game's lore is well established, but the name-dropping by NPCs mid-dialog is intrusive and poorly done. If they are so well known, why haven't I heard about them before this point? While reading in game lore can be amusing, the game relies on it for any sort of feeling of grandeur in your actions, which leaves the player to respond "kay" everytime some random hero of the past is referenced.

    The only redeeming qualities of this game are the high points of the main quest. The main quest is entertaining enough, but there's enough fluff in between the main quest points to bore all but the most bored of players.

    I game with my girlfriend, and this is one of the few games that while looking across each one another's shoulder, we don't have the urge to buy another copy so we can both play.

    Overall, this game is mediocre at best. Those blinded by the promise of a new and interesting experience have clung to that idea, and let the lack of polished content go unnoticed. While this may be enough for some, those looking for a well refined RPG experience may want to wait for Mass Effect, or pick up Skyrim if they haven't already. KoA:R is unfortunately not in a shape that can be spruced up with patches, but rather, a complete retooling of a large chunk of the game.    … Expand
  59. wellfedup
    Feb 28, 2012
    5
    Just when you think nothing else can go wrong with this game the sound is out of sink, it is like watching the old foreign movies where you see the lips move and a few seconds later there is sound. It is the same for this game. They need to sort this out, if they got rid of all the faults this would be great game.
  60. caudill150
    Mar 21, 2012
    5
    I wanted to like this game so bad. I had high hopes for this game, so i went and bought it on launch day. I initially loved it, the combat was great, the story wasnt awful, and the voice acting great. Though as I continued I found that the combat was repetitive, the quests were all the same (basically fetch quests). Maybey this just isnt my kind of game. For right now i think i'llI wanted to like this game so bad. I had high hopes for this game, so i went and bought it on launch day. I initially loved it, the combat was great, the story wasnt awful, and the voice acting great. Though as I continued I found that the combat was repetitive, the quests were all the same (basically fetch quests). Maybey this just isnt my kind of game. For right now i think i'll stick with TES and Dragon age… Expand
  61. Rev1011
    Mar 15, 2013
    5
    The Pro:
    Great graphics, reminds me of a better version of fable. The con:
    Messes with you eyes when rotating the camera(has some horrible blurry effect), Can't zoom in and out of the camera angle and you can only jump at the edge of ledges (which that part is fine because of fable). I'll have to say I really can't force myself to play it because despite the awesome game that it is, the    The Pro:
    Great graphics, reminds me of a better version of fable. The con:
    Messes with you eyes when rotating the camera(has some horrible blurry effect), Can't zoom in and out of the camera angle and you can only jump at the edge of ledges (which that part is fine because of fable). I'll have to say I really can't force myself to play it because despite the awesome game that it is, the con side really prevents my enjoyment and ability to carry on.    … Expand
  62. norse
    Apr 21, 2012
    4
    Maybe I did not give it enough time, but I simply couldn't get into the game - I didn't get what I was supposed to do, the dialogues annoyed me and I felt like I ran around aimlessly, killing and looting. Graphics are ok - I think the lack of facial animation and the camera have more to do with why I didn't enjoy that aspect as much as the cartoony shading.
  63. pnathan_28
    Feb 16, 2012
    4
    When this game was about to release i was really excited for it , i mean just take into account the pedigree of talent behind the development team alone plus all the previews and pre-launch talk, mostly on G4 made me want to play KoA . That was then, now it's a completely different story. this game can only be chalked up to a MASSIVE disappointment. i really wish now i had waited for theWhen this game was about to release i was really excited for it , i mean just take into account the pedigree of talent behind the development team alone plus all the previews and pre-launch talk, mostly on G4 made me want to play KoA . That was then, now it's a completely different story. this game can only be chalked up to a MASSIVE disappointment. i really wish now i had waited for the reviews, this one in particular instead of getting caught up in the hype and pre-ordering KoA. Granted the combat is engaging and better than just about every rpg on the market but that is all this game has going for it. The graphics are OK, the camera is sub-par , the voice acting and dialogue are dull and boring. my biggest fault with Amalur is that, with any good rpg, you have an emotional investment in your character as they are an extension of ourselves , and in this respect KoA fails miserably. i tried (45 hours into it) till i just couldn't feign enthusiasm anymore. at no point did the game give me a reason to care about my character or the multitudes of fetch -quests that i was being sent on. all you FANBOYS out there that are waving your pitch forks around need to realize that this game did fail on delivering what it set out to. thank you to the brave few who came out with an honest review of this game while the rest of the reviews pretty much rehashed EA talking points .… Expand
  64. TheBlipi0
    May 3, 2012
    4
    Well, i sure got sucked into the hype on this one. How could this game not be epic? Sure had all the makings... Rolston, Salvatore and McFarlane...awesome! Well what a clunker this turned out to be... I know this review is pretty far after the fact but I just wanted to add my 2 cents... I'll echo pretty much the same sentiments as the other negative reviewers. The biggest thing....it wasWell, i sure got sucked into the hype on this one. How could this game not be epic? Sure had all the makings... Rolston, Salvatore and McFarlane...awesome! Well what a clunker this turned out to be... I know this review is pretty far after the fact but I just wanted to add my 2 cents... I'll echo pretty much the same sentiments as the other negative reviewers. The biggest thing....it was BORING! By halfway through the game I was skipping all dialogue. The Lore was pretty in depth, and they tried to create an interesting story, but the delivery was painful! The only gesture npc's ever made was an arm sweep across their body, while your character stands there looking like a dumba$$ saying nothing, looking off into space, no expression. The second biggest problem, way WAY too easy.... i'm no gaming master, but even on hard i had no problem whatsoever. Maybe when i was surrounded by 5 priests blasting me with spells, but even then there's no limit on how many health potions you can carry/drink. Because of that i never felt the need to invest time in any sort of smithing or weapon/armour upgrading. It wasn't a completely horrible game though. The combat was fairly enjoyable even if it was just a button mash, you could mix it up enough to keep it entertaining. Being able to totally change your class or "fate" at any time was a nice touch. Also, it was an easy 1000 gamerscore if that kind of thing matters to you. Apparently this game started out as an MMO, it felt like one, empty and lifeless. In the end it also reminded me of another series i hate...Fable, at least Fable games have some personality and emotion. Frankly i'm amazed at the high scores this game got, did all those people actually play it in its entirety? Or did they play it for a few hours and write their reviews? If so i'd like to see what they think of it now. I'm playing Witcher 2 now and what a breath of fresh air that is, it's excellent in every way. Don't wast your time with this one....… Expand
  65. Chuck_Woolery
    Nov 2, 2012
    4
    Complete WEAK SAUCE!

    What kind of crack are the reviewers smoking who say it is "deep" or "complete"? Boring character models, repetitive combat, and a skill level that reminds me of Skylanders: Spyros Adventure for 4-10 year olds. Quests are shallow, getting better gear makes barely a difference. I was dominating everything within a few hours, even on high difficulty. LAME!    Complete WEAK SAUCE!

    What kind of crack are the reviewers smoking who say it is "deep" or "complete"?

    Boring character models, repetitive combat, and a skill level that reminds me of Skylanders: Spyros Adventure for 4-10 year olds. Quests are shallow, getting better gear makes barely a difference. I was dominating everything within a few hours, even on high difficulty. LAME!

    World is not very "open"

    Good points fiction is OK, scope and size good    … Expand
  66. Broyax
    Apr 10, 2017
    4
    ça m'a fait penser à Borderlands : un hack & slash (en mode ultra fantasy bien sûr) qui repose sur une mécanique bien huilée. Armes, arbres de progression, capacités, magie et coups spéciaux, le combat est bien fichu. Et heureusement parce qu'il n'y a que ça. Certes l'emballage fait très jeu de rôle, nombreux dialogues (dans une excellente VF) et un monde qu'on a voulu cohérent et soigné.ça m'a fait penser à Borderlands : un hack & slash (en mode ultra fantasy bien sûr) qui repose sur une mécanique bien huilée. Armes, arbres de progression, capacités, magie et coups spéciaux, le combat est bien fichu. Et heureusement parce qu'il n'y a que ça. Certes l'emballage fait très jeu de rôle, nombreux dialogues (dans une excellente VF) et un monde qu'on a voulu cohérent et soigné. Cependant il ne fait illusion que les premières heures et le vernis s'écaille rapidement.

    L'histoire est nulle, les quêtes sont nulles. On dirait presque un MMO qui est devenu un jeu solo dans l'urgence comme en témoignent les environnements immenses et la patte graphique particulière (on dirait du WOW par moments et pas qu'un peu... voilà qui est fort désagréable). C'est donc très logiquement très répétitif.

    Le studio qui a pondu ce truc s'est cassé la gueule. Bonne nouvelle ma foi, ça l'empêchera de sévir à nouveau.    … Expand
  67. Desdicado
    Feb 7, 2012
    3
    I really wanted to love this game because I love R A Salvatores books. I've played RPGs since the late 80s so love the genre. Unfortunately the game doesn't live up to the hype. I really really dislike the cartoony graphics, they look 5 years out of date. The quests are repetitive, go here kill that, go there kill that over and over. The skill trees are ok, but they've been done in similarI really wanted to love this game because I love R A Salvatores books. I've played RPGs since the late 80s so love the genre. Unfortunately the game doesn't live up to the hype. I really really dislike the cartoony graphics, they look 5 years out of date. The quests are repetitive, go here kill that, go there kill that over and over. The skill trees are ok, but they've been done in similar ways in countless games. The cut scenes are poor, your character just stands there staring of into the distance not reacting. There are no consequences to your actions so it doesnt feel like a living world. Bows are broken, you can't aim. All guards know when you've done something psychically which I hate. You can't jump, even over small things. it's not open, just interlinked blocks of space, the only good thing is the combat which is fun and well executed. Lets hope KOAR 2 is way more polished. Oh and the weapons degrade which I don't like either!… Expand
  68. musicgamer
    Feb 14, 2012
    3
    On receiving this game I thought it was fantastic Rpg/Adventure with great Action. I was really hoping to enjoy this game, BUT!, am now discovering how actually bland and simplistic this game is - esp once your about 7hrs inn!! I was hoping KoA:R would have varied quests and many options/decision- paths/discoveries as described and mentioned by the makers before this games release!!!!..On receiving this game I thought it was fantastic Rpg/Adventure with great Action. I was really hoping to enjoy this game, BUT!, am now discovering how actually bland and simplistic this game is - esp once your about 7hrs inn!! I was hoping KoA:R would have varied quests and many options/decision- paths/discoveries as described and mentioned by the makers before this games release!!!!.. Now with 14hrs of game play(approx); all I've been doing is bashing the attack button, slaying creatures for the many samey side-quests, or, mostly collecting useless loot-items that still involve slaying everything!!!. While combat seems cool and engaging at first, it's nothing more then a series one button presses and occasional block pausing. You can easily take on groups of 4-7 guys with ease!! EVEN ON HARD LEVEL!!..This does start to drag at times, as it doesn't really require anything other then hitting attack, attack, attack!. You walk a few steps before you have to repeat the same action by attacking everything in your way, but without any real challenge, as enemies fall very easily... I actually just run past them now!...Within a few hours play the gameplay in KoA:R does start to become action repetitive, actually very repetitive!!! . This is made worse as KoA:R lacks any real challenge, or required skill, or even discovering enemy weak-points which could have made fighting more varied and interesting. There are many attack options at your disposal, but are not actually required, as you can get through wave after wave of enemies using one same technique with ease. I do find it rather stupid for a game of this sort, that annoyingly, you remain on flat ground!! You can't jump freely or even over anything!. Because of this stupidity!, you are forced to walk around everything just to reach a place you can see a few steps away, but can't, as its blocked by a small rock, fence, water, edge, lake..etc; forcing you to find a longer route or walk around everything just to reach there. You can't even fall/step-off the edge unless its at a very limited fixed game design place!!!!...The world, while attractive and fairly varied, is rather flat as you don't reach high places, no hills, no mountains, no ladders, no high peaks - everything is on ground floor! This is also not a true open world game in the sense of Oblivion, Skyrim, Fallout games, as you are funnelled into a one direction with many area architectural designs within the game world fairly similar - though painted with different textures ! The story isn't very engrossing at present (14+hrs played) and seems fairly generic so-far. Also there seems to be NO consequences to the actions you make!! I slaughtered a whole village(inc guards), yet no-one cared! , nothing happened,!!!..this destroys the feeling for a living game world. There isn't much activity gong on within the villages, and can be quiet and empty in many areas outside villages (so-far!). Cut scenes are poor as your character just stands staring of into the distance not reacting to anything; as do other characteres!!. Lip sync is bad too! like a badly dubbed movie. I will continue to play to the end, but it feels I'm using my thumb to bash buttons rather then making deep choices, figuring out things, making moral choices, discovering secrets and stories that effect game direction, or searching for meaningful items/loots to help progress (everything is just thrown at you without ant real discovering!)...KoA;R has become a rather simplified rpg with its streamlined and overlygeneric style. The game has taken away the depth and development of an involving rpg and has instead made it more an arcade large Hack n Slash game!!! If played games like Skyrim, Mass Effect 2, Dark Souls, Fallout 3, Divinity II:DKS, The Witcher 2 - KoA:R will seem rather bland compared to other better and deeper rpg's out there!!!!… Expand
  69. Emperorkuzko
    Mar 13, 2012
    3
    There were to many samey side quests. Go here, kill x amount of y and bring back 12 of their such and such. There was never a point where I felt like I needed to continue playing because neither the story nor the gameplay were engrossing enough to continue. The combat is just hammer X to win, the ranged combat is just terrible (I don't know why they thought autolock and replenishing arrowsThere were to many samey side quests. Go here, kill x amount of y and bring back 12 of their such and such. There was never a point where I felt like I needed to continue playing because neither the story nor the gameplay were engrossing enough to continue. The combat is just hammer X to win, the ranged combat is just terrible (I don't know why they thought autolock and replenishing arrows was a good thing.), and I never got into the magic part of it. All in all it was a disappointing game and I really did want to like it but it was just so damn mediocre and bland.… Expand
  70. Ukrutor
    Feb 26, 2012
    2
    Repetitive, boring, no epicness at all, no roleplay at all, main character is boring. The world look like a fairy tale, some locatins look amazing, but still after 20 hours of playing i found no "wow" effect. This is not the way games should be made.
  71. Skawt
    Feb 28, 2012
    2
    Calling Amalur an RPG is kind of an oxymoron, because there is so little depth to the story, the characters, the quests, or the world for that matter. And comparing it to God of War doesnt seem right either, since GOW actually had an entertaining story. I guess it all comes down to whether or not you can forgive KoA's lack of story for its combat and leveling, which are quite good. I couldn't.
  72. gayme3scenes
    Mar 6, 2012
    2
    I....HATE...this game. Where da dragons? I was tol'...dis game...by da commerdacial...dat it gonna be like Skrim. It ain't NOTHING like skrim. Skrim good. Amalura bad. This game ain't worth jack sqauterry! I traded dis game in, for another...My 14th...copy of Skrim. I like Skrim. Good game. Amalura bad. Long story short. Get Madden 12. I whoop yah at Madden.
  73. Dexter
    Mar 18, 2012
    2
    The story of this game is awful and the people dont make me give a little care about the mission, the graphics are childish and too colorful. the sound is awful. the gameplay combat is pretty good - even excellent but there is too much problems in the game for it too be a good game.
  74. Polar
    Feb 7, 2012
    0
    This giant corridor maze is not an "open world" in the slightest. Look, but don't touch applies to 75% of the terrain areas you see. You can't jump, and the use of invisible walls is absurdly gratuitous. They are everywhere where they shouldn't be. It's getting a 0 due to the fact that it is being falsely advertised as an "Open World Game." Add the fact of how it rips off other games inThis giant corridor maze is not an "open world" in the slightest. Look, but don't touch applies to 75% of the terrain areas you see. You can't jump, and the use of invisible walls is absurdly gratuitous. They are everywhere where they shouldn't be. It's getting a 0 due to the fact that it is being falsely advertised as an "Open World Game." Add the fact of how it rips off other games in graphics, and combat. You have your self a below mediocre game.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

55
#55 Best Xbox 360 Game of 2012
14
#14 Most Discussed Xbox 360 Game of 2012
22
#22 Most Shared Xbox 360 Game of 2012

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 71 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 55 out of 71
  2. Mixed: 16 out of 71
  3. Negative: 0 out of 71
  1. GamesBeat
    Apr 11, 2012
    67
    Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning is not all bad, it's just very bland. For a game that was in development for roughly seven years, the different gameplay systems don't seem all that well-thought-out. And perhaps the lengthy development also explains why Amalur brings absolutely nothing fresh to the table. It simply lacks its own identity.
    Read full review
  2. Xbox World Australia
    Apr 2, 2012
    86
    In terms of laying the groundwork for future iterations, Reckoning does an incredible job of establishing the lore as well as the world of Amalur itself. On the other hand, it fails to dish up a compelling single-player narrative, as the main plotline lacks substance and culminates in an almost cliché boss encounter by today's standards.
    Read full review
  3. D+PAD Magazine
    Mar 22, 2012
    90
    Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning is a hoot to play. It feels like Fable done right, like a third person Skyrim edited to a workable size.
    Read full review
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