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Appletell has published a new preview of Spiderweb Software's upcoming Avernum: Escape From the Pit. Currently in development, the game is a "ground-up rewrite of Avernum" which will include a new engine and new graphics. As in the original, Avernum: Escape From the Pit follows the adventures of individuals exiled to a mysterous underground realm.

Two main features set Avernum: Escape From the Pit apart from other role-playing games. One is the new character creation system which is a lot less overwhelming than many other role-playing games. Instead of being given a bunch of skill points to distribute at character creation and other choices to make, you simply pick traits and increase stats as you level up. This lets you play the game while deciding what kind of character you’re going to become, instead of doing it before you even set foot in the game.

The second is that you’re given a lot of freedom to go where you want to go and to complete quests in almost any order. While some quests and areas are easier than others, there’s little to stop you from wandering freely and exploring as you see fit. You’re given pointers about where to go and what to do, but you’re not forced to do anything in any particular order. This kind of freedom is refreshing and is what an adventure game should be.

Appletell: Avernum Escape From The Pit Preview

Spiderweb Software

Avernum: Escape From The Pit

Buy Avernum: Escape From The Pit

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