Across from the LA Convention Center is a parking lot, surrounded by a high fence and impenetrable by all but the most resolute spies (and gaming journalists). It is the Gathering of Developers Promised Lot, and if you like beer and burgers with your game, it's the place to be at E3. Sadly, we had to leave before the burgers were ready, but there was a much better treat instead, one that doesn't lead to clogged arteries. We got to see Myth III: The Wolf Age in action…

The build we saw today was after a mere five months of development, and let me say one thing right away. If you are a fan of the first two Myth games, do not hesitate to look forward to Myth III. This game looks great!

First, the 3D units are amazing (previous Myth games used 2D units on a 3D battlefield). They are significantly better than the still shots that have been released. The movement is fluid and realistic, and slight variations have been added to keep everyone from looking identical. For example, typical infantry might be right or left handed, and they may carry a sword or an axe. Their stats are the same, but these slight visual changes help keep the look fresh.

Trees and bushes are also fully 3D now, and wind has been added to the physics engine so that the trees sway in the breeze. And yes, the wind will affect the paths of arrows, how far you can throw a Molotov cocktail, etc. Even the force of an explosion can send nearby airborne projectiles off-kilter, though overall the physics engine has been left alone other than some minor tweaking.

There are many new units as well. Some are totally new, others variations on existing characters, such as axe-wielding dwarves, for example. Previous characters have also been tweaked here and there for additional game balancing issues. There will also be a few more spell-casting creatures added.

As in previous games, there will be a full single-player campaign, along with strong multiplayer components similar to what Bungie.net has to offer currently. And while there will be a few new game types as well, details were non-existent at this time. (We were told that one of the new games will be called "grinder" -- let your imagination run wild.)

Myth III is still on schedule for a release late this year; the team is shooting for October or November, in time for the holiday buying season.

Feature: Myth III: The Wolf Age Image Gallery

Myth III: The Wolf Age

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