Night Watch [PC]

Russia isn't exactly known for its cinematic blockbusters, but in recent years its exported entertainment has been making great strides. The most recent hit to appear on U.S. shores is Night Watch, which is based on the book of the same name and tells the story of an eternal battle between the forces of Dark and Light. Though the story is complex, the game does an excellent job of bringing new players up to speed while throwing in many small touches to satisfy fans of the film.

Unlike many licensed titles, Night Watch doesn't try to follow the footsteps of the film, instead expanding on the same universe. Characters and environments from the movie appear in a supporting role, which is a great way to tie in with the film without feeling like a retread. The game offers a convenient way to flesh out characters that may have been given only a quick once-over onscreen.

In Night Watch, you play as Stas, a brand new character with a path of his own to discover. At the start of the game, Stas is revealed as a Light Other and recruited into the Night Watch, the force that makes sure the Dark Others obey the treaty. The rival Day Watch (whom you face off against during the course of events) does the same for the Light Others. A third faction, the Inquisition, oversees it all, but remains shrouded in mystery.

Based on the Silent Storm engine, Night Watch's core appeal is the turn-based conflict that you are faced with in every level. For the most part, you're free to wander the world without restriction, but as soon as a battle begins the game switches to turn-based play.

Despite its age, the engine behind the game is solid and provides for an abundant number of options within each battle. Where you attack from is often as important as the attack itself, so players have to think about position while battling the forces of darkness. With a bit of forethought, it's possible to setup some impressive combo attacks and quickly knock out an unwitting foe. Specific encounter locations are scripted, but the fights aren't, so every combat experience can be vastly different.