Xeen: Encounter! An Underrated Gem From the 90s CRPG Era?

Stepping back into the annals of classic role-playing games, we stumble upon a hidden treasure often overlooked amidst its more celebrated contemporaries – Xeen: Encounter. Released in 1992 by MicroProse, this isometric RPG served as a sequel to the acclaimed “Might and Magic” series, yet it carved out its own unique identity within the genre. While it may not possess the mainstream recognition of giants like Baldur’s Gate or Diablo, Xeen: Encounter offers a compelling blend of exploration, tactical combat, and engaging storytelling that deserves a place in any RPG enthusiast’s library.

A Story Spanning Continents: Unveiling the Mysteries of Xeen

The narrative unfolds on the mystical world of Xeen, a land steeped in ancient magic and shrouded in secrecy. Players find themselves thrust into the role of adventurers tasked with investigating strange occurrences plaguing the realm. Reports of monstrous creatures emerging from hidden depths, unnatural weather patterns disrupting the balance of nature, and whispers of an impending cataclysm all converge upon the heroes’ quest. Their journey takes them across diverse environments: from lush forests teeming with mythical beasts to perilous dungeons filled with cunning traps and formidable foes.

As players delve deeper into Xeen’s mysteries, they uncover a tale of betrayal, ancient prophecies, and the struggle between opposing forces vying for control over this magical land. The story unfolds organically through encounters with intriguing NPCs, deciphered ancient texts, and discoveries within hidden chambers. The narrative avoids spoon-feeding information to the player, encouraging exploration and deduction as vital components of the storytelling experience.

Mastering the Mechanics: A Blend of Classic RPG Elements

Xeen: Encounter adheres to the core principles of classic isometric RPGs, emphasizing party management, strategic combat, and character progression. Players assemble a team of up to six heroes from various races and classes, each possessing unique strengths and weaknesses. The game boasts an impressive roster of options, allowing for diverse party compositions tailored to specific playstyles.

Combat in Xeen: Encounter unfolds in a turn-based format, requiring players to carefully position their characters and utilize abilities strategically to overcome challenging encounters. Success relies on understanding enemy vulnerabilities, exploiting terrain advantages, and managing resources effectively. The game also features a robust magic system, allowing characters to learn and cast spells ranging from offensive attacks to defensive buffs and healing incantations.

Character progression is handled through a classic experience point system, with heroes gaining levels as they overcome challenges and defeat enemies. Leveling up allows for the allocation of skill points, enabling players to customize their party members’ strengths in areas like combat prowess, magical ability, or crafting proficiency.

Production Values: A Glimpse into 90s PC Gaming

While Xeen: Encounter may not boast the high-fidelity graphics of modern RPGs, its visual style retains a charming retro aesthetic. The isometric perspective allows for exploration of expansive maps, revealing intricate details within environments and showcasing the diversity of Xeen’s landscapes.

The game’s soundtrack enhances the immersive experience with atmospheric melodies that evoke a sense of wonder and peril, perfectly complementing the narrative and gameplay. Sound effects add further depth to combat encounters, bringing life to spells cast, weapons clashing, and creatures roaring.

A Legacy Worth Revisiting: Why Xeen: Encounter Still Holds Up Today

Despite its age, Xeen: Encounter remains a compelling experience for RPG enthusiasts seeking a challenging and rewarding adventure. Its classic mechanics, intriguing narrative, and engaging world make it a worthy addition to any gaming collection. While the graphics may appear dated by modern standards, the game’s charm lies in its timeless gameplay loop and captivating storytelling.

Here are some key reasons why Xeen: Encounter still holds up today:

In conclusion, Xeen: Encounter is a hidden gem deserving of rediscovery. It offers a blend of classic RPG elements with a captivating story set in a richly imagined world. While its graphics may not impress modern gamers, the game’s core mechanics, engaging narrative, and enduring charm make it a timeless experience worthy of exploration for any fan of the genre.