Spiderweb Software has released its fifth Avernum title, and while it may not look as though much has changed since the last game, the world of the Empire and its subterranean cousin certainly has.

It seems that the Empire has decided to weild soft power rather than rule with an iron fist, and while most people seemed happy with the situation, there were certain elements who felt a return to the old ways would be better. Thus, an assassination attempt against the Empress by a powerful rebel who had fled to the underground world of Avernum, and you enter into the picture as an Empire soldier sent in pursuit. When your party is ambushed upon arrival, you quickly learn that the Empire is not in as much control as it would like.

Like most Spiderweb games, Avernum 5 features a lot of variety. There are lots of unique items, enemies, creatures, people, and areas to explore. In fact, there are multiple ways to tackle most challenges, so if you finish the game and start over, you can play it in a completely different way. You could use your head and get around locked doors and traps, or you could use your muscle and brute force your way through. You can stay loyal to the Empress, you can join forces with the enemy, and you can also change your mind multiple times along the way. You can rush through the game, or you can take your time and see the sights.

You'll find that most of the locals aren't too happy to see a soldier of the Empire around, even if they feel they must tolerate your presence. Still, some are friendly or at least can offer some help. Usually people will have quests they would like you to perform, and they'll reward you with items or even information to help you along on your main quest. As in previous games, your actions can affect how others feel about you. For instance, early in the game you have the opportunity to help someone stake a claim to some land east of town. He doesn't have much, and someone with more money is also interested in the land. Each of them wants to be the first to know when that land is available. Who do you tell first? You can bet the other person will be upset with you.

As Avernum is completely underground, you might expect that the areas will all look the same, but it is quite expansive and you'll have opportunities to see many different areas. Some areas are only accessible by boat, and you'll need to teleport to others. There are farms, rocky tunnels, settlements, and any number of places to explore. Some are occupied only by creatures, while others are home to many of the sometimes zany characters. There is someone named The Rat Lord, for instance.

While players of the original games might recognize the items and spells, there are now battle disciplines available. Originally non-magic users had limited options in combat, but now they can use one of the battle disciplines to gain an advantage against their foes. You can use your knowledge of anatomy to make more effective strikes, or trip your opponents to make them less able to defend against your attacks. Using battle disciplines makes your character fatigued, so you'll have to wait until he/she recovers before you can use one again. Still, it can change the dynamics of the fight dramatically, especially when combined with your spells.

While people have been complaining that this entry is one of the more linear RPGs to come out of Spiderweb, I think you'll find that there is so much to do that it doesn't matter. People you help early on may be around to return the favor later. A character who provides you with special power will require certain favors from you in a Godfather-esque way. Joining one group will make your priest spells more powerful, but you'll need to give up something else in return. Many of the paths are optional, but they make for good roleplaying.

Graphics:
You'll recognize the graphics from previous games. While there may be some improvements, it's still a classic Spiderweb game.

Sound:
The ambient sounds and effects are good, and while there is no music to speak of, you'll still find yourself immersed.

Game Play:
The interface is easy yet powerful. While the game is linear, there is still plenty to do to that can change the flavor of your adventure.

Concept:
Finding yourself accidentally a major player in a war in a foreign land always makes for a good story for when you get back.

Value:
While the game is linear and so doesn't stray too far from the main story, you will still find that it plays differently each time through. Even if you only play it once, you know you have choices that can impact the game in meaningful ways.

Fun:
As always, Spiderweb Software delivers a fun-filled adventure.

Overall:
If you are fine with games that let you use your imagination, then the graphics won't bother you. If you prefer better graphics, I'd suggest you try this game. The game play and story might suck you in. The demo is huge so you have plenty of time to decide if you want to buy the full version.