Torchlight II
If you’re looking for a game that nails the Pavlovian click-fest formula of the action RPG, then Torchlight II is for you. There’s no time for an intriguing plot or interesting characters, they would only get in the way of the mountains – and I do really mean mountains – of loot and hordes of unrelenting monsters.
Torchlight II is blessed with a breakneck pace, which sees players running all over its massive maps, slaughtering an ocean of enemies, and never stopping for a breather (unless you’re fishing). Gold and items explode out of fallen foes in absurd amounts, showering the ground in treasure and trinkets. There’s always a new toy to play with, some new, colourful armour to show off, or powerful items to buy, giving the game a constant sense of progression and a hook that will trap you within its world for many hours.
Though there are only four classes to choose from, each has three separate skill trees tied to different fighting styles which completely change the class. One Engineer might be a heavily armoured tank, wading into battle with a comically large hammer, while another could harass enemies from far away with an equally comically large cannon. There are oodles of vastly different skills within each class, inspiring experimentation and multiple playthroughs.
It also looks bloody lovely. It might be a game of looting and killing, but there’s no rule that says that the environments can’t be vibrant and colourful. Monster design is exemplary, with a broad range of freakish nasties to slay, and titanic bosses that impress both mechanically and visually.
Torchlight II also lets you travel around with a handy pet. Having the best taste, I’m never without my faithful bulldog, unless I’ve sent him to the shops to sell my loot. Yes, these animals are mercantile masters. If that’s not worth the price of entry, I don’t know what is.
