The game is pretty damn good; I got to hand it to Arkane for producing another winner. Combat really does take some getting used to in order to get it right. Even in light of the learning curve, I really do feel like this is the most interactive and responsive FPS combat I have every experienced. Arkane did a good incorporating the full range of defensive and offensive moves into game play. In some games certain moves are more frills than anything else. For instance, in TESIV one really could just run up to their opponent and beat the snot out of them without much thought or skill, blocking was more of an option then a necessity. In this game the enemy will parry light blows, counter, use power attacks skillfully, and give good reason to become familiar with the parry function. It may be a little frustrating and awkward in the beginning but with a little practice and time the combat really becomes addicting. Scripted sequences play more of a storytelling function than anything else, well as far as the first few levels go that is. Combat takes place extemporaneously. An enemy hears, sees, or smells you and attacks. They use the environment to their advantage as the opportunity presents itself. One doesn't simply step into a scripted trap, instead if the player just happens to be in the area of influence of a trap their assailant may very well take advantage of that opportunity. Sometimes it is unexpected, and quite surprising. Every weapon type has a very distinct feel, as such; each one takes time and practice to use effectively. With bugs and performance issues set aside, my biggest gripe with the game is in the voice acting. Some of the actors come off with the "Wow, look at me I'm acting." feeling that can be overbearing and sometimes comical. The music in the game is appropriate and moves with the flow and setting of the game, sound is up to par. Graphics wise the game is very engrossing; architecture and detail have a very gothic or medieval feel, and really takes advantage of the source engine and its capabilities. The environment is well suited for a traditional rpg; however, the placement of spiked grates is a little artificial. I get the feeling Arkane may have a few of them decorating their office due to the frequency they are implemented in the game. Weapons placement is appropriate, and without giving away too much, you may even chance upon a hammer and anvil. The class system is well balanced, however the idea that one could play the game without using a melee weapon is a little out of touch with reality. Over all it’s a great game, more action than rpg, but more fun than a truck load of puppies. If you want something better go get a sword and a suit of armor and hit the streets. I would encourage all of my nerd bretheren to buy this game.