Magic: The Gathering fans alert!
Although I love Duels of the Planeswalker that is really a Magic card phenomenon-turned-PC game, Etherlords upped the ante by featuring lively animated creatures and effects that instead of the usual 2D card art with text. If only Duels would be like that... Anyway, Etherlords win gloriously in terms of sleek 3D visuals and lively environments. I like the fact that you actually bring your character around the map searching for better cards to put in his deck which sort of mimic the way we do it in real life, just that I don't ride on a giant scorpion to do that.
However, I'm disappointed with the fake and awkward narration that spoils the mood of a true fantasy game. The voice actors/actresses basically read off the mission briefing like they never got paid for the job.
Lastly, Etherlords can be overly challenging for the fact that the mission briefing is too vague for you to know what's going on and also sometimes you met strong opponents too early who outclassed you a lot and find yourself in a crappy situation. The battles can get boring too because of the slow combat animations. But it is truly a delightful experience for Magic fans like me to enjoy.
KingLim