Realms of Arkania: Star Trail HD

Realms of Arkania: Star Trail HD for PC is a remake of the second installment of the best-selling RPG series that was originally released in 1994. Just like the remake of the first game of the series (Realms of Arkania: Blade of Destiny HD), Star Trail HD was created by Crafty Studios. The game is based on the The Dark Eye tabletop RPG system.

Plot

Realms of Arkania: Star Trail HD continues the story of the previous game of the series. After failing to conquer Thorwal, Orcs begin their offensive in other parts of Aventuria. Svelt Valley now lies in ruin and Lowangen is occupied by the Orcish forces. A fellowship of heroes was summoned to the city of Kvirasim by the elven ambassador and given the task of uniting elves and dwarves in order to create an army capable of facing the orcs. Our protagonists have to find two powerful artifacts, the Salamander Stone and a legendary dwarven axe, to achieve that goal.

Mechanics

We begin our adventure in Realms of Arkania: Star Trail HD for PC by creating our party of heroes. We choose their gender, looks, and class (mage, hunter, warrior, etc.).

The game’s world mostly consists of bigger and smaller towns and complex dungeons. Interestingly, exploration (during which we observe the action from a first-person perspective) is not seamless. Just like in the first RPG games from the 90’s, it happens in stages. As we explore the world of Aventuria, we talk with NPCs, trade, and accept quests.

Combat plays a rather important role in the game. Encounters are turn-based and take place on arenas covered with a tactical grid. Point of view changes from first-person exploration to isometric combat. Properly using our characters’ skills and abilities (both magical and conventional) will make us victorious.

Technical Aspects

Even though the visuals are visibly better and sharper than in the original game from the 90’s, Realms of Arkania: Star Trail HD for PC is still not that impressive in that aspect. However, the game’s interface was remodeled for the remake, which can be seen in character portraits, new icons, and indicators. The game now also has a minimap.

Last updated on July 13, 2017