While I know this is not a game or even really an expansion, as the final download available for Oblivion from Bethesda, I thought it appropriate to review the castle Battlehorn, a stronghold meant for fighter type characters.

This was advertised as both a lair and a quest. Initially I was rather diappointed. The initial quest is to save the castle from siege by a band of mauraders. The castle lord has already fallen, and the knights inhabiting the castle have sent out word for help. And boy do they need it. The men at arms, while brave, are all equipped with iron weapons and armor. They will quickly fall unconscious to the daedric and ebony equipped mauraders that are attacking. As you arrive, the men at arms see you, and drop the gate to battle the mauraders. Quickly enough you will be fighting the three mauraders alone.

If you are an experienced player, this will go quickly. The castle is then yours. It is the typical story where you travel to another city to equip your lair. This is initially where it is disappointing. While HUGE, the castle great hall looks empty. You have a wine maker. an armorer, two servants, a magic forge, etc....You also have several ill equipped men that will follow you when ordered, and one named second in command.

A little exploration and things get more interesting. You have a taxidermist. It is here that you realize that the great hall was left empty on purpose. Some diligent hunting the right ingrediants will leave your hall filled with statues of the beats you have beaten. It makes the great hall look far more ineresting.

You private quartes are excellent, and here you will find the best heavy armor in the game. You will find several secret doors, one leading to a general that opens up another in castle quest that I will not spoil. In the basement will will find the best training room in the game. it has multiple weapons training stations, but best yet, it had a permanant sparring partner. You can work on all your fighting skills while beating the man silly. Knock him unconscious, heal him, and he is ready for more. You can even choose what weapon he fights with, so you can work on your own fighting style.

Alkl in all, if you take the time to explore, the castle is excellent, and may become your personal project to decorate, make wine, etc. There are several features that could keep you occupied if you choose. In all, I would score it an 8.5 as an addition to Oblivion, definitely worth getting.

Remember it is free for the first week, and it was released today!