On the surface, Dark Messiah Might and Magic represents the masterful reinvention of a legendary franchise, taking turn based strategy role playing elements and transforming it into a first person action "shooter." While this isn't new (Deus Ex) the magical infusion of these ingredients, combined with a robust multiplayer component and a brass knuckled pulp fantasy story helps make Messiah one of the more enjoyable games of the year.

An invigorating combat system serves as the game's first charm. Players can simultaneously (and effectively) hold a shield in one hand to defend against attack, brandish a sword in the other to hack and slash an opponent, then suddenly change tactics and decide to kick that enemy over a cliff

Weapons can be swung to execute weak but rapid attacks that drive an enemy back, or slow, powerful strikes that cause major damage. Pressing and holding a direction key can alter powerful strikes, but the real bonus comes when the Adrenaline Meter maxes out. The screen turns a reddish hue, everything slows down ala Bullet Time and the next death blow instantly kills an enemy, severing a head -- or whatever limb happens to get in the way. Messiah's hand-to-hand combat feels "realistic," something that has eluded other games and will undoubtedly be copied for years to come.

Fortunately, the game's focus moves beyond the mighty warrior. The integrated role playing elements can turn Sareth (the main character) into a stealthy assassin, a mystical mage or a conglomeration of all three, each with its own set of skills, powers and equipment. Trained in the arts of combat and a student of a mage, Sareth has the ability to pursue any one of the classes. In addition, a sidekick demon named Xana residing inside his body plays an important role in the game's outcome.

Messiah's skill trees are much simpler than in other role playing games (RPGs) and likely won't appeal to hardcore role players, but they're more than adequate for anyone else just looking for a good time. Part of the fun is gathering different equipment (armor and shields), weapons (swords, daggers, staffs and bows), magic potions and other items like books and logs that add informative tidbits to the story. Due to the skill trees, some of the items can't be used until certain skills have been unlocked. Completing tasks earn points that can be applied to one of the three main skills: Combat, Spells and Miscellaneous. Combat deals with melee skills like the use of shields; Spells allow players to cast flame arrows, freeze enemies in place, or toss them telekinetically (plus a host of others); and Miscellaneous increases mana, stamina, and health levels, as well as unlocks stealth (Assassin) skills (hide in shadows, pickpocket unaware enemies, lock-pick doors and detect traps). For instance, some daggers require a Level 2 Stealth skill, while some swords require a Level 3 Strength skill.