One of the more interesting ideas discussed when we saw the game was the idea of rifts which open directly to Hell. You'll be able to adventure in, but the safety net is off - you can't leave unless you walk back to the entrance. You'll also slowly be killed by being in that environment, so you have to be sure you're tough enough to tangle with the powers of darkness before you take the plunge.
In the end, Hellgate does show its roots as an action-RPG, but with fast-paced action-oriented play and a dark style that set it apart from most similar games. Though none of the ideas are really new, it still stands apart so far. We're looking forward to seeing more of the game and discovering what types of characters and challenges lurk in this twisted realm.
May 9, 2006
