Visually, Eragon isn't up to Xbox 360 standards. While the game does move at 60 frames per second, most of the time it looks like an Xbox game. Some effects in the game are spectacular, especially the water effects, but they're ruined by lame level design and stiff character animation. Bugs also pop up in the game from time to time, forcing a player to retry various objectives and actions because the game gets wonky.
The audio features stereotypical adventure game music and effects. There is some decent background music, but it doesn't sound epic enough. Some of the voice acting is pretty good, but it gets old, especially when the lead character shouts out the same magic spell chant constantly. Sound effects run the usual route, with the clanging of swords and some taunts by bad guys that fail to intimidate.
Eragon has nothing to offer for the long haul. A second player can drop in anytime for co-op combat, but there are no special co-op attacks or changes in the action whatsoever. Online play isn't offered, although it's doubtful that it would be used if it were.
Actually, Eragon's biggest burden lies with its unlockables. With a movie-licensed game, one might expect movie clips, new characters or something -- ANYTHING -- significant. All players receive for their hours of hard work are quick developer interviews and a digital recreation of the movie poster and book cover. Yep, that's it, the extent of a $60 purchase.
There are two exclusive levels in the Xbox 360 version, but that's like saying you can get two extra teeth pulled at no extra charge. Every attempt that Eragon makes at being a vigorous adventure comes up short, thanks to a lousy presentation and boring gameplay. Do yourself a favor and invest in the book or a movie ticket instead.
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