Fate

One of the most unheralded titles to hit the RPG scene in 2005, Fate combines Diablo-like gameplay with beautiful graphics and sound. The premise of Fate is very simple. The main character starts in a town next to a deep (average level 50) dungeon. The player must enter the dungeon and make his way to the bottom level, killing the boss and saving the town. Along the way, the player can complete quests obtained from people in the town. This will increase the character’s renown, which can add skill points to the player’s stats.

In Fate, the player controls one character. Since each character can choose which stats to raise after gaining levels, there is no need for classes. Each character also controls a pet cat or dog, which gains the ability to change into more powerful creatures. The overall game system is very much like traditional fantasy role-playing games. Primary ability scores are Strength, Dexterity, Vitality and Magic. After each level is gained, the player can choose to distribute five ability points among these statistics. Points can also be distributed to skills such as Sword Skill, Bow and Crossbow Skill and Dual-Wielding Skill.

The allure of Fate can be found in the combination of colorful graphics, fluid gameplay and simple, yet engaging character development. The game’s obvious similarity to Diablo is a plus rather than a minus. As in Diablo, the items in Fate can be socketed (to insert gems). The items can also be imbued with magical properties, such as a bonus to defense or magic. Scrolls of Identify and Town Portal are staples for any character’s inventory.

The game’s isometric view definitely reminds one of Diablo, but the theme is more “kid-friendly”. Instead of shrieking demons and gory undead, the player will encounter monsters like rats, jellies and goblins. The player’s pet also adds a certain innocence to Fate that Diablo not dare approach. Despite the game’s superb visuals, low-end video cards seem to be able to handle the graphics load.

One of the best features of Fate is the character’s pet. Each cat or dog can fight, carry inventory and wear certain items. A pet can be commanded to return to town and sell all items in its inventory, returning the gold to the player once it returns. The time it takes the pet to return depends on how far down in the dungeon the player currently is. The pet is also completely healed by going to town. While the pet is in transit, the game goes on as normal, so the player must adventure on his own for a short time.

Fate is a really well-done RPG that offers hours of gameplay. The random dungeons and different skills also afford good replay value. There is also a Fate expansion called Fate: Undiscovered Realms with more monsters, items and levels. Try out Fate at Wild Tangent Games.