Geneforge series
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Image:Geneforge2.jpg The Geneforge series of role-playing games was created by Jeff Vogel of Spiderweb Software. They are released as shareware for Microsoft Windows and the Apple Macintosh computers. There are three games in the series: Geneforge, Geneforge 2 and Geneforge 3. As with all Spiderweb Software titles, graphics and sound are limited and not the main focus of the game. Instead, Vogel concentrates on creating involved and engaging plotlines. The games are highly non-linear, with multiple goals allowing the player to join any sect, and receive one of a number of endings. There is a high degree of player influence on the game world, and the existence of multiple solutions to problems. For example, one sect may give you the quest to destroy an object, while an opposing sect will charge you with its protection.
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Plot
The Geneforge storylines involve a group of mages called "Shapers" who dominate the game world due to their ability to create life as they see fit. The player character is cast as an apprentice Shaper. Crises in the game result from the Shaper's mistreatment of creations, creations' developing intelligence and will of their own and the appearance of groups which seek to alternately exploit or destroy new and potentially dangerous technologies. The player is left to determine what is the right thing to do, such as using mysterious skill canisters which sap the humanity of the user in return for great power.
The Geneforge
The Geneforge is a device which has essentially the same effect as a skill canister, but on a much larger scale. Being so powerful, it is very dangerous, and can only be used very carefully with very protective equipment. To use it otherwise results in instant death.
Gameplay
Image:Geneforge2map.jpg The games are played in an isometric view and feature turn-based combat. The lands are split up into small areas, which can be traveled through using a world map. Once a certain objective has been completed in an area, it can be skipped through on the world map, allowing the player to move very quickly through the land.
Combat
During combat, each warrior gets a certain amount of action points, which are spent moving, attacking, casting spells, and using items. The chance of hitting an enemy depends on the character's dexterity, weapon skill, and equipment. The damage dealt is tied to the character's strength and the power of their weapon. The player can use magically enhanced spores and pods to heal and strengthen themselves and their allies.
Abilities
Image:GeneforgeStats.jpg At the beginning of the game, the player chooses a type of Shaper to be. The three types are:
- Shapers
- Excel at making creations, weak in combat.
- Guardians
- Strong in combat, weak when casting spells
- Agents
- Strong when casting spells, weak when making creations
When the player gains a level, he or she gains an amount of skill points, which can be spend on improving one or more of the character's abilities. Depending on the strengths and weaknesses of each Shaper, the skills have varying costs.
