all games are not created equal

    A while back I purchased both of these games in a clearance sale for about AU$30 each, so I wasn't expecting too much.

    I played N3 first and to no surprise, it was a mediocre beat 'em up style game (which has been been overused). It did have some points where it shined, such as the amazing combos and the sheer amount of enemies on screen. But this was held back by clunky controls, a useless squad system and highly unbalanced foes (the average boss was able to two or three shot you, while taking up to 4 minutes of constant combo spam to kill).

    When I started up KUF: Circle of Doom, it was my first time with a Kingdom Under Fire game so I had no idea what to expect, except for the obvious RPG elements as shown on its cover. After picking a fearsome looking warrior as my character, I headed into the game and slashed my way through hundreds of creatures, and a boss which led me into the next area.

    The combat was extremely fun and I found numerous items to customise my character, such as crossbows and two handed hammers. The boss fight was pretty simple, a masked, four-headed beast where you had to break off each mask and then fire arrows as it climbed high above you. (Boss fights may become more strategy oriented later, I have not played far enough to know). There is also online co-op for up to 4 players. This allows you to boost your character easily by joining a higher level characters game and sharing the exp or to get help if you are stuck on a tough boss fight.

    The only problem I have found with KUF: Circle of Doom is that I was unable to find a single NPC which continues the main quest, and had to refer online to find out.

    In all, KUF: Circle of Doom had an edge over N3 for the simple reason of enjoyment. I found myself frustrated at N3 countless times from being cheaply 2 shot by a boss' stun or AE (and then having to restart the WHOLE level over again). But in KUF: Circle of Doom, it is always fun to grab a friend or three and hack your way through the unique foes.