Demigod is the latest game by developers Gas Powered Games which boasts an impressive RTS engine that is set in a world of epic battles and ancient gods. It’s the classic tale between order versus chaos and from the very first moments of the game, you immediately know that you are in for a treat thanks to the meticulous commentary by Christopher Lee (The Lord of the Rings, Star Wars). The introduction really wets your appetite as ancient symbols are used to explain the story.

The story of Demigod would not look out of place from a fantasy novel by Raymond E. Feist or the late Robert Jordan that revolves around the death of one of the prime gods. As there is now a void in the pantheon, eight demigods are now vying to fill this role in order to become the new prime, of course the journey there is going to be damn tough and quite a bloody experience.

Features: Revolutionary strategy/action game that combines tactical prowess with role-playing depth Battle in a persistent online world in multiplayer, or a virtual persistent universe in single-player, as you battle your way toward ascension Increase your Demigod's powers and abilities by leveling up during each battle Wage massive, earth-shattering battles across a series of awe-inspiring Arenas Seize key, strategic positions on the map and turn the tide against your enemy. Push deep into their base and destroy them once and for all Wage war alone or join forces with other Demigods and lay waste to mutual enemies

The game supports both a single-player mode and a multiplayer both that were equally enjoyable. Although there is no campaign per se, in single-player, the gamer is involved in a variety of skirmishes with the AI which is great for learning the ropes of the game before tackling those gamers who see no light (AKA, the gamers who play this game to death). It would have been nice if the game contained a tutorial level, rather than forcing the gamer into the wilderness alone.

The game is split into two division which include those of the light and those of the dark, each with their pros and cons, although it’s quite satisfying playing the evil forces. These divisions include the Assassins and the Generals with the assassins using brute force and strength to challenge other demigods directly, whereas the generals use their minions to assist in their plight.

There are four demigods available per division with a few mysteries for later on. It should be mentioned that the various environments that you duke it out is quite a surreal almost Greek and Roman experience as the attention to detail has truly captured this era quite well, even though it uses magic and melee within the game itself. The battles in Demigod are quite epic, although on single-player, the AI is at times a little easy to defeat, especially some of the “boss” characters that you encounter.

The heart of Demigod is a combination of RTS meets RPG which seems to be the “in” thing at the moment, not that we’re complaining. They twist of Demigod is your main character, the demigod itself who serves as the soul and heart of your attack. It's almost like they are portable bases as they fly, walk and lumber around the mythical planes of existence.

As you progress through the various battles that you move through, your character is awarded experience which can be used to purchase a variety of items and skills in order to level-up. Apart from this RPG aspect, the RTS comes into play by ensuring that your “followers” assist in protecting your god from those that want you dead.

There are a variety of demigods that you can choose to play such as the gigantic Rook who looks like he has truly been taken out of some ancient mythos. The Rook is ideal for strength and protection, whereas other gods such as Regulus is an angel who uses his bows for ranged combat. Another interesting god is the Torch Bearer who uses magic to squash his enemies and of course we need to mention the Unclean Beast who spreads pestilence and plague throughout the world, very cool indeed. The generals include Oak, Queen or Thorns, an almost half naked angel who uses plant like creatures to assist with her plans, Sedna and Lord Erebus.

In essence, you need to claim the map and this is done by capturing flags, creating minions and defeating the enemy. It's a thoroughly satisfying experience as you engage in the enemies and really spices up the RTS genre due to the uniqueness of the gameplay.

Graphically, the title is visually quite impressive with detailed gaming environments and characters. The special effects in the game are a treat, especially the water effects which looks glorious. Match this with an engaging soundtrack and Demigod looks and sounds quite good. The only issue with the game is that it does require a fairly up to date PC in order to fully appreciate the title. However for AMD or Dragon Platform users, you will be in for a treat if you can play this on full details.

In conclusion, Demigod is an interesting RTS/RPG game that unfortunately is more suited for an online game, rather than single-player. It would have been nice to have a story included in the game due to the epic scope of what the developers were trying to achieve, however if you’re a multiplayer fan, than this may be the game you need to keep you busy until Starcraft.