Go happily into Oblivion

OBLIVION NOT only moves computer role-playing to the next level, it could actually convert those who have never tried such adventures before, writes Chris Cain.

This fourth chapter in Bethesda's Elder Scrolls series, is the follow-up to the critically-acclaimed Morrowind. But, where the complexity of its predecessor could lead to frustration, the sequel has been streamlined to make things more accessible.

The sheer beauty of Oblivion is that you decide what to do, who and what your character is and how you interact with the world. With a free choice of gender, race, attributes and character class, it's pretty much up to you how your game plays out. You can stick rigidly to the main quest, enjoy random adventures of your own, or spend time sightseeing while nipping in and out of the plotline.

Meanwhile, the other inhabitants have their own agenda and continue to carry on regardless of your actions. If you thought the Grand Theft Auto games were the pinnacle of open-ended gameplay, you really haven't seen anything yet.

Career options include training as a fighter or wizard, signing up as a gladiator or joining the Imperial guard. Alternatively, those who like to play dirty can spend their time as a thief, picking pockets in the street and burgling houses for entertainment. Get caught, however, and you'll soon end up dead, languishing in jail or running around with a price on your head.

We were invited to join the Dark Brotherhood, a secret society of assassins ready to kill for the highest bidder. Especially enjoyable missions here include staging the death of client, silencing a prison inmate and dealing with a traitor in the ranks.

None of this would work without a believable environment and Bethesda's attention to detail is nothing short of remarkable. Forests full of flowers and fauna, grand castles, hidden caves and ancient ruins are just some of the places waiting to be discovered.

It will likely take several weeks of dedicated play to undercover even a quarter of the delights on offer.

While the graphics are at their finest on a high-end PC, excellent lighting and detailed textures mean the Xbox 360 version is also little short of stunning.

The visuals are supported by a stirring score and voiceovers from the likes of Patrick Stewart, Sean Bean and Terrance Stamp. There is some noticeable repetition, however, especially from a chap who sounds like Trumpton's Brian Cant.

Traditional role-playing statistics still govern your character's equipment and abilities and your progress depends heavily on increasing core skills such as fighting with a blade or bow, casting spells and athletic ability.

But the game feels and plays far more like the first-person shooter than a standard RPG. As such it takes no time at all to lose yourself in the action, which could engage a whole new audience.

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