“Sequels are tricky,” starts off Peter Molyneux, whose grandiose role-playing designs are being given a second chance in Fable 2. Aiming to address a wide range of promises, requests and complaints, Mr. Molyneux is again boisterously setting out to evolve the role-playing genre. Expanding the concept of the first game, Fable 2 ambitiously vows an unparalleled level of customization and interactivity amid a new epic narrative. Even if his awe-inspiring claims ought to be taken with a grain of salt, it would be hard not to get energized about Fable 2.
Fable 2 returns to the fantasy world of Albion, albeit 500 years forward from the first game. You’ll start off as a child, unraveling the beginnings of an epic story in which you’re the central hero. This time around, you can play as either a male or female. Full character customization options are provided through the course of the game, but much of how your character develops depends on how you play the game. Your actions determine your character’s moral alignment, which reflects in your physical appearance and attributes.
Beyond the dilemma of morality, Fable 2 promises the same real-time combat system of the original with an assortment of swords, bows, and guns. Magic once again takes a place in the sequel, with added spells and effects. The dynamic economy of the first game has been expanded to match the growth of Albion in the future, as well as to accommodate the new features of real estate. At any time during your travels, you can purchase buildings and take on the quests associated with them. For example, buying up a pub might unlock a quest that requires tracking down patrons with overdue tabs or snatching up a large house enables you to shelter your wife and kids.
Mr. Molyneux explains that what will make Fable 2 more than just a sequel is the way in which it “will instill in you emotions you’ve never felt before.” Emotional connections never before established in a game will arise from the experience you’ll have in playing Fable 2. Relationships will play a central role in the game, emphasizing the bond of love between you and characters surrounding you. Like the original, you can interact with characters in the hopes of finding love and marriage. Both heterosexual and homosexual relationships are allowed; even more, should you find a desirable partner, you can engage in sex. Hit the sheets and the game gives you the option of having protected or unprotected sex.
Don’t get wrapped up in the heat of the moment, though, as unprotected intercourse can lead to some life-altering consequences. Male heroes can impregnate their wives; reciprocally, heroines can become pregnant. Rearing a child promises to be one of the most endearing aspects of Fable 2, allowing you to raise a young character in the image of your hero or heroine. Your own actions within the game ultimately reflect in your child’s behavior, leading to either a vicious little brat or a loving offspring that triumphantly greets you upon your return from a dangerous quest.
One of the most significant additions to the game, you’ll be joined by a canine companion in your adventures. You won’t have direct control over your dog; instead, the computer dictates his actions via dynamic artificial intelligence that responds to your actions and the surrounding environment. When attacking a small group of bandits, for example, your pet will instinctively attack the nearest enemy. Your dog will prove vital outside of combat as well, serving as a navigator of sorts since the game lacks any on-screen map. Scouting locations for enemies, hidden treasures, and secret areas is one of your dog’s important roles; however, his sense of self-preservation will prevent him from getting into fatal situations.
