It's been eight years since the original Majesty appeared on the PC gaming scene with its own unique take on fantasy gaming. (It took some digging to locate the original review in the GameSpy archives). The premise of the gameplay was simple, simultaneously original... and frustrating. You were the ruling monarch of a fantasy kingdom, and while you could set the tax rates, recruit heroes, and build whatever buildings you liked, you had no direct control over the actual citizens of your kingdom. Meeting their needs while persuading them to accomplish your goals was at various times challenging, hysterical, frustrating and fun.
The good news for fans who can still remember the original is that the license has changed hands and a sequel is on its way. Paradox Interactive and 1C are teaming up to update the franchise, starting from the ground up with all-new graphics but keeping the same feel as the original. Once more the trick will be to run your kingdom without direct control, although this time around representatives from Paradox say they're trying to give players a few more options for directly managing the action.
Twitch Prime members can claim May's Free Games with Prime lineup and add even more games to their collection.
Starting May 1st, members will be able to claim:
Whispering Willows
Stealth Bastard Deluxe
The Little Acre
Majesty 1
Majesty 2
Members also still have until April 30 to claim April’s Free Games With Prime, including Her Story, InnerSpace, Joggernauts, and Keep in Mind.
The Strategy Gamer looks at how several games break the God-game mold that seems to plague the genre.
"March, my people, into battle. Even though you are 500 miles away, and radios have not yet been invented, instantly obey my commands. It’s good to be the king.
Strategy games often put the player in the stated position of king or emperor, allowing them to guide a nation in totalitarian fashion. It is an odd paradox that while so many games put you in a position of supreme leader, so few model it with any degree of authenticity."
"GamersGate are currently holding offers of 40% off on Mass Effect 2"
"Last but definitely not least is the ‘Nordic week’ sale that’s currently on at GamersGate. Various games from the Nordic Games catalogue are up for sale including games such as Painkiller and even the Gothic franchise"
