Jade Empire Preview for XBox

Jade Empire

Release Information

We currently have no release info on file for this game.

Introduction

In a faraway land, there are sights to see that might be construed as supernatural in many normal areas. Magical arts that are executed with ease that defy all logic. Fighting styles that are so intriguing that it appears like something from an alternate reality. In the Jade Empire, these things are commonplace. Be prepared to take charge of a person who you will guide through the world of the Jade Empire on an adventure like none other. Only you can decide how your character will develop. The Jade Empire awaits you. Will you answer the call?

Preview

Jade Empire is set in a Chinese-like setting with several myths and legends painted from some real life entities. The concept of Jade Empire pits one lone character against the secrets and mysteries of the Empire at your very feet. The overall feel of the game screams innovation as BioWare saddles up to deliver us another title that will hopefully live up to what they have previously served.

In Jade Empire, you assume the role of one of a few characters who travel the Empire in search of a sense of enlightenment. At your disposal are an array of fighting styles ranging from deadly hand combos to fanciful weapon styles and also some deadly chi attacks which can turn the tide of battle. It will be interesting to see what lies in store on April 14th.

One thing that is prevalent in The Knights of The Old Republic which BioWare is famous for bringing us is the path with which a character walks. There is one of two choices that a character can choose in Jade Empire and they are the path of the open palm or the path of the closed fist. Whichever one the player decides to follow will help determine what fighting styles are available.

Another feature that Jade Empire offers is the ability to become a master of martial arts. With this, one can build and develop a fortress and interact with people in a very realistic setting. Also, reputation is monitored in the game and affects how you will interact with other characters and followers.

Battles in Jade Empire are real time and call for a bit of tactical execution. One can use fighting styles to ward off an enemy but some fighting styles are more effective than others against certain types. There will be three bars present that must be maintained at all times. The first bar is displayed in red and constitutes how much health a character has. The second bar is portrayed in a blue color and shows how much Chi a character has in order to launch a deadly attack. The third and final bar dictates Focus. This ability helps turn the tide of battles by slowing time down so the character can dodge items and attack enemies with more ease.

Jade Empire is really an experience that will only be told through how the player interacts with the character and the world surrounding him. What decisions are made will definitely affect the way that other NPCs and followers feel about them.

The fighting styles present in Jade Empire are quite numerous and are interesting to see in action. Executing deadly combos using just your fists will take precision and expertise. Using the right moves will reward a person with a quick and easy battle. Each fighting style will have something that is unique to them. The Dire Flame style will have characters firing a firebolt at enemies. Another style allows your character to transform into a supernatural being for more efficiency.

Another thing that is present here is the ability to recruit followers. You are able to take a follower with you on your adventure. They have different abilities that will help out in battles and other situations throughout Jade Empire. Some will be able to help you out in battle by either attacking the enemy or helping you restore your energy while others will be more concerned about the surrounding area and what to do next.

It will be interesting to see how BioWare uses somewhat the same engine that is used in Knights of the Old Republic with more of an Oriental feel to it. If everything is panning out as planned, then this will definitely be worth the money.

Anticipation

Jade Empire is almost upon the North American shores. In a matter of days, West will definitely meet East and it will be quite an exhilarating ride. The details surrounding this title make it feel like it is something that was supposed to be found mainly in Fable. While Fable may not have been everything it was cracked up to be, Jade Empire is appearing to be a title that will live up to its hype through the rich detail given in the graphics and choreography of the characters during battle. The setting is definitely one that is well known for the Chinese-like architecture and mythology placed within the Empire’s boundaries.

BioWare is also offering a limited edition of the game that has a new character and fighting style inside. As far as I know, that is the only way to get the character and style but it may be incorporated into the game somehow anyway. Also, there are extra goodies available with the limited edition and the good thing is that it appears to be the same price as the normal game.

Jade Empire is definitely something that I will be looking forward to playing in the future. With the lush environment and the rich dialogue, I believe this will live up to all that has been said about it and then some. On April 14th, be prepared to travel to the Far East in search of your destiny and what you make of it.

Preview by: T_H_Locke

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