The Guildmasters

The reason I took so long to write this review is because I wanted to play the game for a while first. This gives me the opportunity to write a decent review, unbiased, with no guess work.

When trying to write a good review it almost always includes a downside, Skyrim is no exception but any downsides to this game are not that bad that it spoils the overall gameplay, and you can improve on any negative issues just by taking a little extra time to do a couple of things that will make it better.

First off, you will get instances where the game will lag, quite badly at times. I have found the best way to cut down on this is to not overload your chests in your houses, this helps for some reason. I found this out because I was putting everything in one chest, which appears to be a bottomless pit, it doesn’t fill up. The game was lagging a lot, then I went to a dresser and starting putting stuff in there and it was running quick again.

Another option which pays is to delete all the autosaves, these seem to build up and don’t overwrite the previous autosaves, at least on mine they were all seperate, so I had my game save, and about 6 autosaves, as soon as I started deleting the autosaves the game didn’t suffer from lag anymore.

Apart from above there really isn’t anything else, apart from the odd glitch which most won’t even come across.

Basically Bethesda has taken everything good about all their previous games and incorporated it into this one huge game, then they have added a bunch of other stuff to improve on it even more.

This game is probably more open ended than anything previous. The added randomness of everything just gives it a ton more playability. Dragons free roaming and random encounters makes it more “real” because you can visit the same area time after time and get a different encounter or outcome.

Bethesda obviously listened to previous advice from their players because they have added all the things that everyone wanted to see and then some.

Instead of owning a house, you can own a house in every city, 9 in total, with some extra free residences which you will acquire by completing a line of questing, like the thieves guild, or becoming arch mage. You can also put your books in bookcases now, something I previously saw a lot of posts on where players were saying this would be a good idea.

Although there is a lot of randomness in the game, it is organized, you don’t just come across an animal in the middle of nowhere that seems out of place, you will come across deer or elk grazing, then you might see a pack of wolves attacking it which gives it a more sense of reality than a basic random encounter, you can watch or dive in and kill for the materials.

The other new aspect of creating weapons from scratch by using smithing is a great addition, it makes you want to experiment with everything. I think I spent a couple of days creating, sharpening and enhancing weapons, and if that wasn’t enough you can make a tidy profit when you sell them.

Everything about this game involves you, it is impossible to get bored of a game like this. I played for more than a week before I rode my first horse, I just didn’t want to ride one, I wanted to explore everywhere by foot because you can miss so much just by traveling by horse.

The towns are so interactive and with virtually endless quests I can honestly see me playing this game off and on for years, this is the kind of game you can just cut yourself off from reality for a few hours and become immersed in something extremely enjoyable, like a really good movie.

The list is endless on what this game can do for you, and what you can do in the game. Harvest flowers, catch insects to make potions, kill animals and use the hides, kill dragons for some of the best armor in the game, join all the factions, buy a house, decorate your house however you want, explore dungeons, ruins and caves which are not small by any means, some caves and ruins can take up the best part of a day to explore.

Overall Bethesda did not let fans down this time around in any way, I would go as far as to say that what most of us expected was nothing compared to what we got, me personally? I’m extremely impressed, and if this game had $100 price tag i’d still buy it, can’t wait for the game of the year edition, you know there will be one.

Rating out of 5 = 5 simply because it’s as close to perfection as you can get right now with a game, and that is based on graphics, main storyline, playability and the amount of things you can do to keep you wanting to play more.

Tony:)

I’ve been watching some videos of the latest Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and every time I watch something that I haven’t seen before it just makes me want it all the more.

The latest video I saw was Todd talking about how they moved into new ground again by giving us an infinite amount of quests. I don’t understand the technical side of this but its all to do with this new engine they used which seems to be able to create quests on the fly, meaning you will never actually be able to finish everything in the game because its endless, talk about cool.

I played morrowind for what seemed like forever but this one, at least for a while, is going to be the ultimate gaming experience. The first game of its kind that doesn’t end, and lets face it, fans of the Elder Scrolls don’t really want it too.

One of the most frustrating things about really good games, is that once you’ve completed them, you have to wait like 2 maybe 3 years to get the next one, with this, we will have something to continue playing right up until the next installment.

I think my biggest worry with something this huge and open ended is whether I will get any time free to play some of the other awesome games out there. Being able to make a game that is endless certainly gives value for money, one of the biggest letdowns with games is they cost so much and when you get a game that can be completed in a few days it seems a waste of hard earned cash. With a game that is never ending we will definitely be getting our moneys worth, thanks Bethesda, now let me play it already !!!

Tony:)

After getting the opportunity to watch a good 20 minutes of gameplay from the new Elder Scrolls: Skyrim, i’ve got to say that I need to own this one.

Probably one of the most anticipated games of the year, and its been a long wait, but well worth it.

The graphics, as usual, are amazing, but you can do so much in this new installment. Whatever you see a character doing, you can do, if a guy is sharpening a weapon on a wheel, you can do it too, if you want to chop wood, you can do that as well, it’s so cool.

Personally I preferred Morrowind over Oblivion, but with skyrim I believe they have taken all the best of both games and given it to us here, plus they have added tons of extra stuff, like the dragons, which incidentally, are free roaming making it even cooler, a much better, or should I say improved battle system and trophies/achievements, adding even more playability to the game.

They have even brought back the vampires, which was a cool addition to Morrowind, it will be great to battle the vamps again.

You can pre-order the game now at Amazon and even get a special edition pack and even the guide if you wish. Scroll further down for the official storyline and info.

The guidebook comes with some pretty cool stuff. Here are the details:

FREE ACCESS to the interactive world map– Code inside
The interactive world map includes over 150 location maps covering all 9 Hold cities. Each map shows the locations of every vendor, trainer, skill book, NPC, and unique item in the realm. You can toggle points of interest on and off and zoom in and out.

-Large map Poster inside-
Labeled with important locations, major roads, and hold capitals

-A Champion for Skyrim-
Multiple character builds based on hundreds of hours of play testing reveal exactly what Skills, Perks, equipment, and other items to pick, and how to advance through the game, no matter the type of character you want to be.

-All Collectibles Gathered-
If you’re searching Skyrim for Skill Books, Unique Items and Weapons, every single Shout, Dragon Priest Masks, Treasure Maps, Unusual Gems, or even Captured Critters, we show you where every rare item is.

-The Atlas of Skyrim-
A comprehensive tour of every single location, from the vast Hold Cities to the smallest woodland den. Every major exploration point receives a walkthrough flagging important items, with detailed maps throughout.

-Prowess in Combat-
Every weapon, piece of equipment, and spell is detailed so you know which blade, bow, or incantation to crush your enemies with. Every type of combat is tactically analyzed, so you can better any foe in battle.

-Trainers and Traders-
Skyrim is full of merchants to barter with, and trainers to further increase your Skill, Crafting, and Bartering proficiencies. Every alchemist, blacksmith, innkeeper, trainer, Khajiit caravan, and other vendor revealed.

-Followers and Friends-
Build your friendships across Skyrim and locate every Follower with information inside this guide. Become a Thane. Own property. Marry your favorite Housecarl. Details inside.

-Massive and Complete Index-

You can’t tell me the guide isn’t worth getting, you’ll never find all this stuff on your own no matter how much you play.

Ok let’s get to the story of this epic game:

The Empire of Tamriel is on the edge. The High King of Skyrim has been murdered. Alliances form as claims to the throne are made. In the midst of this conflict, a far more dangerous, ancient evil is awakened. Dragons, long lost to the passages of the Elder Scrolls, have returned to Tamriel. The future of Skyrim, even the Empire itself, hangs in the balance as they wait for the prophesized Dragonborn to come; a hero born with the power of The Voice, and the only one who can stand amongst the dragons.

Key features:

# Epic Fantasy Reborn.
Skyrim reimagines the open-world fantasy epic, pushing the gameplay and technology of a virtual world to new heights.

# Live another life, in another world.
Play any type of character you can imagine, and do whatever you want; the legendary freedom of choice, storytelling, and adventure of The Elder Scrolls is realized like never before.

# All New Graphics and Gameplay Engine.
Skyrim’s new game engine brings to life a complete virtual world with rolling clouds, rugged mountains, bustling cities, lush fields, and ancient dungeons.

# You Are What You Play.
Choose from hundreds of weapons, spells, and abilities. The new character system allows you to play any way you want and define yourself through your actions.

# Dragons Return.
Battle ancient dragons like you’ve never seen. As Dragonborn, learn their secrets and harness their power for yourself.

Tech features:

# Skyrim reimagines the open-world fantasy epic, pushing the game play and technology of a virtual world to new heights
# Play any type of character you can imagine, and do whatever you want; the legendary freedom of choice, storytelling
# Skyrim’s new game engine brings to life a complete virtual world with rolling clouds, rugged mountains, bustling cities, lush fields.
# Choose from hundreds of weapons, spells, and abilities; the new character system allows you to play any way you want.

Special offers and promotions:

Order the standard edition of “Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim,” for PlayStation 3, and receive a $10 promotional credit toward the purchase of items shipped and sold by Amazon.com (certain exclusions apply, including Kindle books, MP3s, and video rentals and downloads). The promotional credit will be added directly to your Amazon.com account within two days after your order ships. Offer valid when shipped and sold by Amazon.com. Limit one per household. Amazon reserves the right to change or terminate this promotion at any time. restrictions apply.

Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim collectors edition:

What you get in the box:

* Alduin Statue. Created in conjunction with the IP Factory, this collector’s only statue stands 12″ tall and is made of high quality PVC. Modeled from actual in-game 3D digital files, it showcases Alduin, the World Eater.
* The Art of Skyrim’ Official Art Book. Featuring over 200 pages of striking, full-color illustrations, sketches and models, this stunning 9 3/8″ x 12 1/8″ coffee table book showcases the characters, creatures, environments, and weaponry of Skyrim.
* The Making of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim’ DVD. This documentary DVD contains exclusive, behind-the-scenes footage, including interviews with the Bethesda Game Studios team.

There you have it, every rpg fanatic, every gamer will want to get their hands on a copy of this game, and the collectors edtion looks pretty cool too, this one will be awesome, will probably make game of the year in record time too, enjoy.

Tony 🙂

Trophy List for Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, has been confirmed.

* Unbound (10g) – Complete “Unbound”
* Bleak Falls Barrow (10g) – Complete “Bleak Falls Barrow”
* The Way of the Voice (20g) – Complete “The Way of the Voice”
* Diplomatic Immunity (20g) – Complete “Diplomatic Immunity”
* Alduin’s Wall (20g) – Complete “Alduin’s Wall”
* Elder Knowledge (20g) – Complete “Elder Knowledge”
* The Fallen (20g) – Complete “The Fallen”
* Dragonslayer (50g) – Complete “Dragonslayer”
* Take Up Arms (10g) – Join the Companions
* Blood Oath (10g) – Become a member of the Circle
* Glory of the Dead (30g) – Complete “Glory of the Dead”
* Gatekeeper (10g) – Join the College of Winterhold
* Revealing the Unseen (10g) – Complete “Revealing the Unseen”
* The Eye of Magnus (30g) – Complete “The Eye of Magnus”
* Taking Care of Business (10g) – Join the Thieves Guild
* Darkness Returns (10g) – Complete “Darkness Returns”
* One with the Shadows (30g) – Returned the Thieves Guild to its former glory
* With Friends Like These… (10g) – Join the Dark Brotherhood
* Bound Until Death (10g) – Complete” Bound Until Death”
* Hail Sithis! (30g) – Complete “Hail Sithis!”
* Taking Sides (10g) – Join the Stormcloaks or the Imperial Army
* War Hero (10g) – Capture Fort Sunguard or Fort Greenwall
* Hero of Skyrim (30g) – Capture Solitude or Windhelm
* Sideways (20g) – Complete 10 side quests
* Hero of the People (30g) – Complete 30 Misc Objectives
* Hard Worker (10g) – Chop wood, mine ore, and cook food
* Thief (30g) – Pick 50 locks and 50 pockets
* Snake Tongue (10g) – Successfully persuade, bribe, and intimidate
* Blessing (10g) – Select a Standing Stone blessing
* Standing Stones (30g) – Find 13 Standing Stones
* Citizen (10g) – Buy a house
* Wanted (10g) – Escape from jail
* Married (10g) – Get married
* Artificer (10g) – Make a smithed item, an enchanted item, and a potion
* Master Criminal (20g) – Bounty of 1000 gold in all nine holds
* Golden Touch (30g) – Have 100,000 gold
* Delver (40g) – Clear 50 dungeons
* Skill Master (40g) – Get a skill to 100
* Explorer (40g) – Discover 100 locations
* Reader (20g) – Read 50 Skill Books
* Daedric Influence (10g) – Acquire a Daedric Artifact
* Oblivion Walker (30g) – Collect 15 Daedric Artifacts
* Dragon Soul (10g) – Absorb a dragon soul
* Dragon Hunter (20g) – Absorb 20 dragon souls
* Words of Power (10g) – Learn all three words of a shout
* Thu’um Master (40g) – Learn 20 shouts
* Apprentice (5g) – Reach Level 5
* Adept (10g) – Reach Level 10
* Expert (25g) – Reach Level 25
* Master (50g) – Reach Level 50

Yes the new Elder Scrolls is upon us, releases 11:11:11 and here is the very short trailer as shown on Spike tv at the video game awards 2010

I watched this live tonight on Spike tv and there were some pleasant surprises.

The announcement of Elder Scrolls Skyrim was a surprise as was the mention of Uncharted 3 Drakes Deception.

With Resistance 3 and Prototype 2 on the way it looks like 2011 will be another good year in terms of games and gameplay. There was no mention of White Knight Chronicles 2 which was disappointing but i’m hoping to hear something in the new year.

There is also a Mass Effect 3 coming out in 2011.

I’ve posted more in the forum on release times if you want to check that out.

The game that won game of the year was Red Dead Redemption.

Tony:)

More recently i’ve shopped around for more info on what games are being developed, let’s face it we’ve got some decent gaming systems now and by comparison to the past relatively few really decent games, in particular RPG’s.

I’m sure there are some games in the making that will really grab us like morrowind did, then fallout 3, I mean they are more than just experimenting now, some games are so open-ended the possibilities are endless, and mind boggling.

Anyway, after cutting my way through the tons of info out there, online, offline, mags, tv, game stores etc..it seems that there are some really good ones in the making.

Some is speculation, some rumor and some fact, the only stuff i’m posting here are ones that seem to be a definite.

It seems there will be a fallout 4 and almost definitely an Elder Scrolls V which will be absolutely awesome if both can better the previous ones.

The other definite which is puzzling is another Tomb Raider, not puzzling because there is another potential Tomb Raider in the making, it’s the information that’s puzzling and me and my sons have been discussing it at length.

By some strange coincidence there seems to be some artwork going around the internet which depicts an apparent Lara Croft but as a much younger version, teenager by appearance.

Rumors abound since this artwork found its way online which got me and my sons chatting about how they could change the appearance of someone who has been with the series since the beginning.

After wearing the subject out we decided that the only way to explain this younger version away would be if Lara had a daughter, which would explain the artwork I saw.

Also someone involved in the making of the Tomb Raider’s was quoted as saying something like Tomb Raider fans will be amazed and fall in love with her all over again, it will revitalize the series.

Reading between the lines this may also be a completely different experience as it could be an open ended game, a bit like morrowind or fallout 3 which would actually be quite interesting.

Actually i’ll keep my eyes peeled for any new information about any of these 3 games as they would all be on my wish list, let’s be honest, if your anything like me then your going to be one of the first to grab a fallout 4, an elder scrolls V and another Tomb Raider.

For now it’s not really if it’s when and i’m sorry I can’t tell you that one, I wish I could but I at least get a good feeling knowing we have more great games to come that follow on from the ones we already love.

Tony