Icewind Dale II (2002)

by Christopher August 27, 2002

written by Christopher August 27, 2002 4 minutes read

Summary

With its blend of traditional role-playing elements and updated mechanics, Icewind Dale II is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Icewind Dale series and its place in the pantheon of classic RPGs.

Release Year: 2002
Genres: Role-playing (RPG), Strategy
Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
Developers: Black Isle Studios
Publishers: Interplay Entertainment

Introduction

A sequel to the critically acclaimed Icewind Dale, Icewind Dale II sets players on an epic quest in the windswept north of the Forgotten Realms, thirty years after the original game.

Synopsis

Players answer the call to defend Targos against a monstrous horde, delving into a new story filled with danger, intrigue, and the classic dungeon-crawling gameplay beloved by fans.

Characters

The game allows players to create a party of up to six characters from a variety of races and classes, facing off against a multitude of enemies including the nefarious forces of the Chimera.

Gameplay

Featuring the Dungeons & Dragons Third Edition rules, the game emphasizes strategic combat, party management, and exploration. Players will navigate treacherous terrains, engage in intense tactical battles, and unravel the mysteries threatening the Ten-Towns.

Reception and Critiscism

Icewind Dale II received generally favorable reviews, praised for its engaging combat, depth of character customization, and use of the D&D 3rd Edition rules. Critics noted its challenging difficulty and strategic gameplay, though some mentioned dated graphics and pathfinding issues.

Conclusion

Icewind Dale II remains a standout title in the realm of RPGs, offering a richly detailed world and challenging gameplay that rewards strategic thinking and careful party management.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Fan Art

Fan Art Style: Normal

Fan Art Style: Retro

Fan Art Style: Modern

Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.