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We last looked at Hard to be a God over a month ago and then it was only in the form of a simple press release. Since then there’s been a steady amount of information released, as well as ample media all that can be found on the official site. Come this Friday, you’ll be able to walk into stores and pick up the title, if its release date of 11^th April stays firm. As a result, while we wait for our review copy to arrive, we’ve wetted our appetites with the demo available on the site. Will we be spending our money on the finished title or is being a god just too difficult? Read on to find out our views.

A bit of background information is in order. Hard to be a God is originally a 1964 science-fiction novel where the middle ages are taking place on an alien world. Fast-forward to 2008 and Akella are bringing us a RPG with 3 endings through a non-linear storyline, character development, plenty of weapons and a completely interactive game world. On paper it seems like a decent array of features but does it translate to digital form? ‘Possibly’ is most the most apt word for Hard to be a God. Don’t go into the game expecting an Oblivion killer as you’ll just be disappointed. It’s looking to be a decent title, but most likely will stay in the shadows of Grand Theft Auto IV.

You create a profile, customize your controls and jump into a 3^rd Person over the shoulder game where movement is controlled in the usual WASD means and attack in the form of mouse clicks. It’s akin to The Witcher in terms of combat but remove the intuitive clicking combos. You equip weapons, loot treasure, fight monsters and discuss set dialogue with NPC’s. Hard to be a God features everything you’d expect from the genre of RPG loveliness. You’re granted a bog standard inventory system, journal and minimap and undertake the usual manner of quests which involve killing or conversing. It’s not new, but RPG fanatics will surely be entertained.

Graphically it’s pleasant. It’s bright, full of colour and has its unique appeal. Its timeframe is definitely recognizable, but it spins its own view of it. Characters are varied and environments are rendered to a respectable standard. It won’t push the power of your graphics card (recent 7/8 series willing) but it doesn’t look bland and blurry. Dialogue leaves a lot to be desired as it’s delivered via a clumsy text box with no recorded voice acting and simply reads as mindless fantasy drivel.

Our anticipation of Hard to be a God was sparked by the mentioned press release, and in its current Demo state we’re justified in saying that we’re feeling ‘luke-warm’ about it. It’s difficult to look away from Grand Theft Auto IV and when it’s released, we expect it to be even more difficult to play minor titles, but for those awaiting their PC RPG fix, then look no further. Our review coming soon.

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