Over familiar entry in a great series
Although not technically developed by the usual team at Revolution, Broken Sword 4 is very much business as usual for the franchise. It retains the series' trademark labyrinthine plots, enjoyable inventory-based puzzling and lush visuals but while it is no less entertaining than previous games like The Smoking Mirror and The Sleeping Dragon, the formula is starting to feel a little over familiar. Series stalwarts George Stobbart and Nico Collard return (although the latter takes on slightly unexpected role) and once again get caught up in a complex conspiracy-laced mystery of the kind that has made Dan Brown millions and which once again takes in several exotic locations around the globe. You've got the usual mix of puzzles, some of which are slightly action-based while there are also investigations of dusty old manuscripts and the like to undertake. Angel of Death is certainly not a bad adventure, but it is starting to look a little tired, thanks in no small part to the lower-than-usual production values on display. The controls are also a little dodgy, with two systems available but with both being somewhat imprecise and erratic and which provide a few frustrating moments. The voice acting is of the same standard as usual, which is either a good or bad thing, depending on your perspective, as the hammy performances either add some charm or take it away. The plot is hokum but entertaining hokum for all that so if you enjoy The Da Vinci Code and similar books there is much to enjoy here. Angel of Death is not a spectacular entry in the series but it isn't a disaster either. It certainly won't convert non-fans while it may even leave long-term followers feeling disappointed, making this a tough game to recommend wholeheartedly.
