A few FM reviews

[Guineapiggy]

Just in case you haven't played them yet, I've decided to offer some opinions and insights in to some Thief2 FMs, just so all you 56kers and those who haven't gotten in to them yet can see what's worth a look.

Karrass' Diary
Size: 58.32mb
FMVs: Yes
Well this was the first one I decided to try and I've got to say, this isn't at all bad, it just feels a bit of a budget production. The video and extra voice acting is doctor whoesque at best but that's not so important. the game itself offers a confused, slightly ill-fitted end to round off 'The Metal Age'. The mechanists seem to be robotising themself, and this presents several issues:

1 - The machine was in soulforge IIRC
2 - The Mechanists do not become mindless drones
3 - Karrass appears to have a back garden and a tree... that just ain't right.

Other issues such as slightly limited resouces, bugs like gaps in a certain cage with a big bulky tree creature in it and a game that becomes impossible to complete if you use too many rope arrows, seemingly randomly placed face textures and so forth really prevent this from being much for 53mb but if you're on broadband, it's worth a look. There are some areas of the mission that really promote good ghosting.

The Masque of the Red Death
Size: 15.04mb
FMVs: No
This level was never much more than a small demo unfortunately, which means that it takes longer to download than it does to complete, and that's only if you're on broadband. There is some beautiful texture work and a couple of great concepts put forward but it's far too easy and short. Shame it was never expanded. In terms of plot, it makes very little sense but that may have been explained further if they ever completed this FM.

Worlds Colide
Size: 4.63mb
FMVs: No
A strange level, there is no really deep, involving plot but there are a couple of nice touches such as the '10 K.O.s whilst falling.' objective. I can only help but wonder though if this wouldn't be better employed elsewhere though as it:
A - Means the level has very vunerable guards, making it a very easy level.
B - Seems a bit unlike Garrett. That and the part about having a Niece/caring about any family he may have.
The extra creatures are an interesting prospect, Giant trolls and what appear to be Orcs, but the way they are placed both in stealth/gameplay terms and plot is a bit strange. Still, I don't think it was made with a serious theme in mind, and as it's quite small it's a good quick FM if you're feeling curious.

Ominous Bequest
Size: 15.8mb
FMVs: No
A well thought out start that sets it out from other FMs and some interesting plot features including the guard's strike make for a level that whilst holding no long or in-depth gameplay, offers a very compelling mission, well suited to ghosting or grim survival that is on a par with most OMs. Definitely worth a look in.

Shining Standards
Size: 5.3mb
FMVs: No
This level has got good looks, a well thought out layout and although it doesn't offer any really new textures, guards or ideas it's a good level, especially for 56kers. Just plain old Garrett running a job or two.

Calendra's Legacy: A Winter's Eve
Size: 332mb
FMVs: Yes
Why the bold? Well, the way I see it, if there were ever an expansion pack for Thief2 released, this would certainly fit the bill and then some in terms of originality, new features and inteligent design. Frankly, I don't care if you're on 56k, you have no excuse not to download, play, and fall in love with this FM or resign your Thief CDs to someone more deserving and go back to Tomb Raider. It's available in 18mb chunks or a full, massive download, and as I can not offer this game enough praise, I'll just say this:

Play it. See for yourselves.