The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind

The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind is still going strong. First released in 2001, it has sold over 4 million units and there is still an interest in the game. Why? Because it really is that good. It has earned at least as many accolades as Vice City for game play and it is even more open-ended. Morrowind is Zelda for serious RPG fans- and I say that as a huge Zelda fan.

The main storyline of Morrowind is an intriguing one. Your character is just being released from a prison boat. You don't know why you were there or what your history is, which is good because you are about to choose your own name and race. You could be a cat-like creature who talks to animals, a strong mage, a noble knight, or many other different options. This is such an open-ended, personalized program that you will only ever have to play it once- because the game will never end!

Although there is a main story to Morrowind, you don't have to stick to it. In fact, you'll find it hard to because you'll be so busy playing a million different side missions and exploring what is a massive game universe. With so many different lands and towns, you may want to keep a map and a notepad handy. Yes, it really is that intricate.

Without giving away any secrets, because it is only fair that you see it for yourself, I recommend only joining one faction or guild. Otherwise, there will be so much you are attempting to achieve, you'll spread yourself thin and burn out. I always enjoy my time in the thieves guild. Stealing, sneaking, and selling for profit is so naughty and cathartic!

I don't really have anything negative to say about Morrowind except for the load time, but that's a small price to pay for such an open-ended universe. The characters and artwork are brilliant, as is sound and music. The game play is exciting, although the combat could have been a bit more creative, but that's not really what you play Morrowind for. If you enjoy RPGs, then you will worship this game as your new god.