I was participating in the open beta some months ago but abandoned it halfway through after I noticed the horrible trend the game development was going to, namely messing up the mounted combat for the sole purpose of appeasing the minority elitist infantry types, BUT since I loved the original SO much I decided to at least give the trial version a go…and they SUCKED me right back in!
The released version combat has been pleasingly *EVOLVED* into a very subtle yet robust melee combat system. Couched Lancing is far more refined as well, instead of automatically dropping the lance into a couched/attack position once your mount has achieved adequate speed, you now have to press a selectable alternate-attack key to lower the lance which will only stay in the couched position for a few seconds so the correct timing of the most devastating attack is now crucial!
Besides the obviously improved graphics, sounds and use of the
Havok physics engine, the role playing aspects, quests and NPCs are better developed and enhanced along with an added faction which is based upon a more Mid-Eastern flavor (Crusades anyone?
) The world map is larger and greatly revamped to include some new castles and towns.
Checkout the offical webpage.
http://www.taleworlds.com/main.aspx