Space Siege.

By Reuben Ellett

Most role-playing games these days have a specific focus on setting the player in a medieval realm with flying magical dragons, maids, wizards, and swords. These settings are great for promoting the escapism that is fantasy role-play, but sometimes these games tend to become a bit drab. Chris Taylor, the mind behind Dungeon Siege I and II, has moved the series into the next couple of millennia by developing a brand new title: Space Siege.

The story behind Space Siege is one of survival - not just for yourself but for all humanity. The universe has opened up for the human race and is expanding as colonization spreads across various planets and solar systems. However, this outreach into space has disturbed an alien civilization and convinced them that all humans are parasites fit to be annihilated. These aliens known as the 'Kerak' begin obliterating entire colonies, all the while progressing home – to Earth. Just before the destruction of the planet a small handful of ships speed off into the depths of space carrying the last remnants of humanity.

Your journey begins on one of these vessels, and your mission is to protect it. This ship is known as the 'Armstrong' and carries thousands of people onboard. Unfortunately for you, the ship has been followed by the Kerak and a large boarding party has invaded the Armstrong hungry for human blood. Your character's name is Seth Walker – one of the passengers from the Armstrong that happens to have taken it upon himself to protect others from the threat of these alien beings. Not only does Seth carry the burden of trying to protect his people but also the consequences of his efforts. At certain parts of the game Seth is given the choice to upgrade himself or his automated robotic companion Harvey. Upgrading himself will yield bigger boosts in power and stamina, making your job easier - but at a cost of Seth's own humanity. Will you choose to go down the path of a cyborg or an all-organic human?

Space Siege is shaping up to be a PC-exclusive title so far but fingers crossed that the other platforms are kept in mind. The game should be hitting the coast around the third quarter of this year so keep your eyes to the stars for the latest news from NZGamer.com!

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