Fall Games Guide 2009

Platforms: PC, Xbox 360, Playstation 3

Release Date: November 3

Old-school role-playing games make a big comeback this year, with master storytellers Bioware planning to release their latest epic, Dragon Age: Origins, on both PC and console platforms. Set in a dark fantasy world, it promises Bioware's trademark hybrid real-time and turn-based combat system, and an uncompromisingly realistic graphical style that is sure to raise some eyebrows.

Why It's Hot:

Many gamers have a special place in their hearts for the deep characters and multi-layered plots of Bioware's Baldur's Gate series. Dragon Age: Origins looks and plays a lot like those classics. Hopes are high that this updated experience will be just as legendary.

Why It's Not:

Seriously, a "spiritual successor" to a hardcore, decade-old role-playing game? Haven't we been here before? All hit-points and warlocks and elves and silly dice and stuff? Hey nonny no thank you.

Did You Know?

Previous Bioware release Mass Effect attracted (mostly misguided) media attention for scenes that allowed the player to pursue romances with other characters, to their, er, logical conclusions. Dragon Age takes things a step further: walk into a house of ill repute, and ask for a surprise, and you'll...get one, and not a pleasant one at that. Dragon Age ain't one for the kids.

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