This is a really odd one. I'd call it the Dark Souls 2 of fantasy action RPGs.
This game undoubtedly has a lot of value in it—the combat is super inventive, smooth, and satisfying... when it works, that is. Some encounters can get almost tedious, like fighting Chimeras, where each head has different resistances. It's pretty much mandatory to have both magic and physical damage available, meaning that if you want to play a class that only deals one type of damage, you'd better get ready to hire some pawns.
The world is almost annoying to explore. You constantly run out of stamina while running, and you have to keep checking your map for the right road because you might end up on an elevation you can't get down from, forcing you to backtrack. Thankfully, the DLC gives you an infinite-use fast-travel device, allowing you to teleport to places you've previously visited and left a Portcrystal at.
The RPG elements are odd and almost non-existent. For example, the game has a "romance" mechanic, but because it was never properly communicated to me, my romantic interest ended up being a rich, bald, fat merchant from the capital. Your choices don't really matter and mostly lead to alternate endings based on just one or two decisions.
The story only picks up toward the end, and I have to say, it does get interesting at that point. Before that, though, it's just a generic fantasy story with a dragon as the bad guy.
Speaking of the art direction, it's fine—generic, if anything. Not offensively bad or anything.
Last but not least, I have to praise the soundtrack. It's unique, sometimes really beautiful, and adds a lot of flavor to the locations you visit and the battles you fight. I especially love the Cassardis OST.
In the end, I really can't recommend this game. I wouldn't recommend it to my friends who aren't into action RPGs. However, if you like games with a unique feel or smooth, responsive combat that almost feels like Monster Hunter on steroids, I'd say give this game a shot. It's definitely not for everyone, but for those it clicks with, it can definitely stay with them for a long time. Hence the massive cult following this game has to this day.
