Dungeon Siege ( Microsoft )

By PETER ELEY

Sometimes it's hard to separate hype from tripe. Microsoft's Dungeon Siege has certainly been given the PR treatment.

There are scores of dedicated websites, and bulletin boards run hot every time a new part of the game is completed.

Its lead developer, Chris Taylor, has toured the world telling about his vision for the game. I finally got to see a beta build of the early levels this week, and immediately saw why Microsoft are so keen on spreading the word.

While the underlying role-playing structure is essentially classic Diablo, Dungeon Siege has graphics that raise the bar for PC gaming.

It's real-time 3D, with amazing perspective shifts, brilliant lighting and shadows, and a truly innovative transparency effect which lets you see your character even in the thickest forest.

And the gameplay seemed good, too. Again, Diablo players will say "I've seen that before" but many standard features have been greatly improved.

For example, ever been frustrated when your inventory is full? Dungeon Siege gives you a donkey to carry the collection of weapons, armour and magic items that you find on your travels.

The game is due for release in April, when there will be a full review.

peter_eley@nzherald.co.nz