if you're looking for a decent RPG but have grown weary Elves and Dwarves, grab this!
The story, though perhaps done a million times in various films and literature - is marvelous and extremely well told through the use of mostly brilliant voice acting and some spectacular cinematics.
The fighting is a tad more simplistic then I expected, but this isn't to say it's not any good. Theres a huge variety of different martial, weapon, magic and suport styles - each with a few variations on said style dictated by what buttons you press. For example, press X+A down with with the White Demon style and you'll leap up into the air and pound your fist into the ground, sending a shockwave through the earth that'll knock many enemies off their feet. Whereas simply tapping A over and over gives you a simple punch combo.
The scrolling shooting mini-games in Kangs little jet thing are a bit too hard for me, even on easy - but it's still a welcome addition. Variety is the spice of life.
The graphics look excellent, the enviroments in particular are especially jaw-dropping. The character models are detailed perfectly well also.
My one complaint in the graphics department lies within the blood.
It stands out too much as being far too "cartoony" when compared to everything else.
Along the way there are plenty of chances to impose your will with the way of the closed fist (evil) or help those in need with open hand (good).
Your choices in the end will determine how the game finishes.
It has two endings that I'm aware of, both good and evil.
So it's got atleast a little replay value.
In conclusion, I find it hard to go wrong with Jade Empire.
If you're looking for a decent RPG but have grown weary of the common Elves and Dwarves thing that for a long time has been the genre staple, then grab this immediantly, you won't regret it!