Graphically DAoC is pure eye-candy. If you're into graphically appealing games, DAoC wont let you down. The eye-catching detail of Tir Na Nog is one example of some great handiwork by the lads at Mythic. Stimulating colours, extremely detailed buildings, textures and surroundings makes DAoC a very attractive game for those of you looking for something that 'looks good'. The sound effects are great and the background music definitely sounds 'crisp' and clearer than the usual low detail formats used in other games. Technically, it's important to note that if you're thinking of running this game on a minimum spec machine, think twice. I would strongly recommend this game to be played on at least an 800mhz processor or better.

The game-play and layout of DAoC can be summed up as being somewhat similar to what other RPG games have to offer. There are three main realms that make up the world of DAoC: Albion, Hibernia and Midgard. Each realm offers distinctive new character types, classes and races. Albion is the home of Arthurian Legend, the wondrous Camelot and Avalon and therefore characters created here are predominately humanoid. Hibernia is the realm of Magic, Elves, Firbolg and Lurikeen whilst Midgard is home to the Norsemen, Dwarves, Trolls and Kobolds. Within each realm you have the choice of becoming a magic-user, warrior type, healer or rogue with differing professions or 'paths' to choose from as you progress in level. Sound familiar? Read on…

Character creation is simple. The only problem with creating characters is the fact that once you have chosen a particular realm to play in, you can't choose a different realm for a different character. If you decide to create an Elvin Mage for example hailing from Hibernia, you will not be able to create a Norseman from Midgard or a Human Knight from Albion. You are restricted to choose characters from one realm per server. This is to support Mythic's attempt to keep each realm distinctive from each other, thereby expanding the 'realm vs. realm' portion of the game-play.

Certain facets of the game-play in DAoC are distinctly more refined - for example Guild creation. Want to create a Guild? No problem; just visit the local Guild Registrar. Guilds can be created within the game. Another really nice touch worth a mention is the nifty introduction of the Guild Emblem. Once you have started or created a Guild and your members have attained a certain level, a 'Guild Emblem' may then be chosen by the Guild Leader. This guild insignia is then emblazoned upon items of clothing (cloaks and shields) worn by the guild's members. And if hacking and slashing away at mobs isn't really your cup of tea, DAoC has integrated a very detailed questing system for those gamers who enjoy the adventure but are not too keen on the 'killing to level' aspect of most RPG's. In support of this Mythic have opted to include a journal for adventurers, which updates as you progress through your quests. For the traveller in us all, Mythic have come up with the gem of all gems – access to Horses in the game. No need to worry about hiring a Druid to port you somewhere, visit the local Stable Master in town and you can purchase yourself a ticket to ride to the nearest town – nifty and cheap. Mythic have managed to combine elements missing from other games into one to bring you an online adventuring experience with an edge.