Magic the Gathering: Battlegrounds

Magic The Gathering is of course the popular adversarial card game, which has been selling for some years now. The cards are sold in random decks – the more rare and unusual cards you own, the more likely you are to win.

There have been several Magic video games released previously on PC, which were basically straight computerised versions of the card game. Magic The Gathering: Battlegrounds is the first to incorporate bold new action elements, and also launch on Xbox.

In fact, this game resembles Mortal Kombat more closely than its demure, turn-based paper cousin. You’re a wizard dueling to the death against another wizard. You choose a colour and a “deck” of cards composed of creatures and spells, then you suddenly appear in a 3D arena. Fight!

Time elements replace recharging and powering-up aspects of the card game.

Mana spheres appear in the arena periodically, which increase your magical potential. Your mana also regenerates over time. You can cast any spell from your deck as often as you like, as long as you have enough mana.

Of course, this makes the action fast and furious, with creatures and enchantments flying madly. Creatures travel across the field and strike the first thing they can, then respawn in friendly territory.

You are free to run about on both sides of the arena, and even biff the occasional creature for one point. There’s a great Quest mode, Arcade Duel modes and excellent multiplayer over Internet or LAN.

VERDICT: 8
A really solid 3D embodiment of the Magic world. A bit keyboard-smashy, but fun nonetheless.

PROS: Gorgeous graphics and animation. This magical environment is forcefully teleported into action-packed 3D.
CONS: Occasionally frustrating hodge-podge of game styles. Strategic depth has been trimmed down.

Format: PC/Xbox
Developer: Secret Level
Publisher: Atari
Classification: G8+
Price: $89.95