March 25, 2008 7:00 AMApplelinks has posted a new review of Avernum 5. The latest installment in the long running RPG series takes a new direction with the story, allowing players to explore as a group of soldiers from the above ground world of the Empire. Applelinks gave the game a score of 4 out of 5.From the review:I liked that you know in every area of Avernum 5 what you have to do to move on to the next area in your search for Dorikas. Every area has its own separate set of problems that need solving and a job board with quests that need doing. So, it's a bit linear in that regard, but it never seemed to be that much of a detriment since there's so much to explore and do. You go to each area and do what you need to do to get permission to leave to continue your search. Fortunately, there is an easy way to travel from area to area by using the teleportation pylons conveniently located outside of every major settlement. There are loading screens, but it's much easier and faster than traveling by foot and boat. Since Avernum 5 has so many areas, there's a handy world map which has major landmarks of the area and an indicator of where you're located so you don't get lost. I used this feature a lot in my travels. The turn-based combat system is simple and elegant. All characters have number of points they can use to move or attack with, and those with the highest speed acts first. You can speed up your party by using the Mage's Haste spell or by using wands and scrolls with the same spell. You can likewise slow the enemies and use Battle Skills to weaken them to enable you to do more damage and reduce the damage they do. In the tougher fights, Battle Skills are an essential part of winning. After you win—and if your party has the First Aid skill—everyone recovers health and energy depending on how much First Aid you have and how many enemies you fought. This is a great addition, because it means you don't have to go back to town as frequently or use limited energy and health potions.Read the full review at the link provided below.Applelinks: Avernum 5 ReviewSpiderweb SoftwareAvernum 5

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