Hello All!!!
I just thought I would drop some news and review on the computer game "Port Royale" put out by Ascaron. Let me begin by saying that this is a highly involved game, and you are going to need a few (if not several) hours to play.
The depth and scope of this game is tremendous. Make sure you do the in game tutorial before you sink your teeth into this one...it will make your Port Royale experience more understandable and enjoyable. Port Royale is similar to Pirates! In many respects, but there are more options available to you in Port Royale, for example, you can focus exclusively on trade if you wish, building an financial empire that can include fleets of cargo ships, tobacco plantations, sugar plantations, rum distilleries, etc. all working to make you rich. If you wish to focus just on pyracy, you can do that too...however, be careful...pyrates become extremely unpopular very quickly and you will find that your usual ports o'call are closed to you. I like to engage in a little of both, and hey, if you don't want to engage in pyracy, you can always fund another to do it for you and collect a share of their plunder!!!
The graphics in this game are good...not Great!...but not bad. The ship to ship combat is well within the "wow" range. Naval combat in Port Royale is a step up from Pirates! and is good enough to keep you drooling for more broadside and boarding action, and then coming back for more.
If you can afford it, buy it...I got mine at Fry's for a bag of $30.00 gold pieces, and it was well woth the price of admission.
In closing, I'll say that PR is one of the best pyrate computer games that I have played, and it is a welcome breath of fresh air for those craving a game that is as good as or better than the old Pirates! of the early '90s. Up until now, the pirate computer game scene stunk...those of you who have played "Cutthroats" or "Buccaneers" might sympathize, those of you who have not can consider themselves lucky. You now have a pyrate game that is fun, challenging, charming, exciting...and best of all, will not crash your computer at the drop of a handkerchief.
Eric :)