The Bard's Tale (2004)

The Bard is the kind of a genre-savvy snarker that could only be created with the cynical insight of a brilliant games industry and gaming veteran. This one of the most hilarious games around; the 'Memorable Quotes' section represents just the tip of the monumental iceberg of wit. All voice acting is wonderful, and the characters are filled with charm, though the anti-heroic hero of the Tale has the best delivery; fortunate, since his voice is heard most often, and hearing his next comment makes the most compelling reward for gameplay.

Whether you've played the original games or not, this title stands well enough alone. Though the gameplay doesn't shine, it also doesn't take nearly as many hours as the original games. The full retail price is perhaps more than the duration is worth, but now that the game has settled into the discount bin, it's cost is nearer to it's value. The game doesn't have much replay value though, so you may just as well rent-and-return.