Gaming Target - GameCube: Gladius

Written by D'Marcus Beatty on July 22, 2003

First Impressions: Russel Crowe on Nintendo? I don't think so.

Did you love the movie Gladiator? Does a large, open arena, chanting masses, and large humans engaged in brutal battle appeal to you? If you could answer yes to both of the above questions and can also admit a love of video games, then Lucasarts might have something for you.

Gladius is the name of a Roman blade often used in ancient Gladiator fights. Gladius is also the name of one of Lucasarts' more ambitious undertakings outside of the Star Wars license, a RPG/strategy hybrid set in the mythical land of Gladius (like the game's name and the blade! Anyone see a trend developing?). Gladius will have two protagonists for players to choose, both of which will have a distinct storyline. With the promise of at least 35 hours of gameplay per character, Gladius apparently is offering at least 70 hours of gameplay for anyone tenacious and ambitious enough to pursue both storylines.

In addition to the main story, there will be a number of side quests to enrich the experience. The pair of principals (either the male Valens or the female Ursula) will begin by traveling from town to town with a band of gladiators to compete in heated combat. However, the game offers much more depth than that alone. Players are allowed the freedom to recruit and battle characters from almost 30 classes, many of which are historically accurate. The other classes are mythical in nature, bringing flavor to your selection by adding spell casters, beasts, and monsters such as giant scorpions, minotaurs, and skeletons.

Adding another layer of depth is the fact that certain factions and classes dislike each other, which might make it difficult to recruit certain characters. This element causes players to be more cautious in their recruiting and dismissal of characters. Another note of interest is the fact that dismissed characters don't disappear from the game, and may wind up on an opposing team with a grudge against you!

Characters will also be very customizable with over 100 character types, more than 1,000 items, hundreds of skills, and 400 weapons, helmets, and shields, which should ensure a deep and rewarding experience for both fans of RPGs and strategy. The graphics already look extremely appealing, with very detailed character models and environments. Lucasarts is even promising a multiplayer mode to further boost the game's replay value.