Avernum 4: Greed and Glory HD

The Avernum games are some of the best RPGs of all time, deserving wider recognition. This installment is a leap forward technologically, with an “open world” engine, and improved modern lighting effects. Previous experience with the series is not necessary. Just dive in!

I think the Avernum games are some of the best RPGs available on iPad. I finished Avernum 3 with the opinion that it was the best in the series, however I started playing Avernum 4 and I now think it is even better than 3, and I’m not even totally done with it yet. The skill/stat system has been changed a bit from previous games, and I think it is a major improvement that allows for much more complex and nuanced character builds. Stats and skills are better, inventory system is better (more inventory space), NPCs are more detailed and with more interesting interactions, the story is interesting, etc. etc. The game feels overall more detailed and just overall better than the previous games, which were also superb. Also, I love that this game feels a lot bigger than the other Avernum games, despite the overworld-movement system of moving from town to town being removed in favor of just walking everywhere in normal map (a bit difficult to find the right words to describe this). There is really a lot to do in this game. If you liked any of the previous Avernum games, then get this one, as you will definitely love it. I will also say that each of these games has a certain unique “vibe” to their story, and I think the vibe of Avernum 4 is particularly interesting and cool. My only complaint is that scrolling in the inventory takes a wee bit to get used to, as it scrolls really far when you barely move your finger. This is a very minor complaint, and I’m sure it could be fixed at some point with a wee adjustment. It’s really no big deal. I would also like a button to save games to a special quicksave file, to avoid opening the menu to save. Again, a very minor thing. These Avernum games are simply outstanding. If you like old school open-world RPGs, then definitely play these games. I would gladly pay significantly more for a game like this. Good RPGs on ipad are a rarity, and this game is a true gem. Spyderweb Software knows how to make good games. Anyway, I will conclude this review now, and go off to play Avernum. Thank you for the excellent game.

I don’t know how he keeps doing it. I own every game he has released on iPad and each of them are perfect in their own way. They’re all charming, awesome throwback RPG’s to the golden age of gaming. This remake is incredible. Once again, you’re given free rein to do whatever you want, however you want to do it. You can play by the rules, or you can cheat your way through (if that’s your thing). The artwork is top notch, the scrolling is smooth, everything is just great the way it is and I wouldn’t change a thing. I highly recommend this game, and all his others. You won’t be disappointed.