Fable III

Fable III for PC and X360 is the third episode in the fantasy land of Albion. It was developed by Peter Molyneux and Lionhead Studios. The game, similarly to its predecessors, is a third-person RPG in which the course of the story is usually determined by the moral choices we make.

Story

This time around, contrary to the previous installments of the series, we do not assume the role of a poor orphan who gradually gains experience and becomes a hero. In Fable III, we impersonate a prince who fights his brother for the throne of Albion and the ability to decide the fate of the kingdom and its inhabitants. What is important, we are also the heir of the hero who saved Albion in Fable II.

The action takes place fifty years after the events of Fable II. Throughout these years, Albion has become a rich kingdom—many new cities were built, while scientists invented a myriad of technological innovations and thus introducing the land into an industrial revolution. The period is characterized by a very rapid technological advancement but also exploitation of urban workers and a significant increase in the environment pollution. These are the problems we will have to deal with.

Having overthrown our evil brother, we assume the throne ourselves and are forced to make difficult decisions ourselves. First and foremost, we will be dealing with the economy as well as overseeing the expenses and taxes. Moreover, as befits a true politician, we shall make promises to our people. It is up to us, however, whether we are going to eventually keep them or simply deceive the inhabitants of our kingdom. As you might guess, we will make enemies either way.

The ruler of the kingdom is also o judge whose task is to resolve conflicts of our subordinates and decide on the development path of our domain. We will have to, for example, choose between supporting an orphanage or transforming it into a brothel. Improve the city sewers or simply direct the sewage into a nearby lake. Bad decisions usually translate into popular discontent but will ensure a cash inflow, and money is essential to equip an army required to fight a powerful foe.

Gameplay

One of the new skills the protagonist acquired is the so-called touch. In Fable III for PC and X360, we may walk up to a character and, for instance, shake his hand or, alternatively, slap him in the face. This isn’t everything, though. Touch can also come in handy in many practical situations such as leading a girl out of a wolves’ cave or leading a husband to his beloved wife.

The game also introduces a quite innovative way of changing equipment and skills. To wear different clothing, the player has to move to his own sanctuary where all of his belongings are stored on special racks. The place also contains the world map, treasury, and the achievement hall. Surely, it is a very spectacular system that looks better than a standard equipment screen.

Last updated on 24 May 2010