Ok, ok. So I like isometric rpgs. I guarantee that if anyone out there likes getting lost in the game worlds that they take part in, these three are for you...
Name = Arcanum: Of Steamworks and Magick Obscura
System = PC
Plot = The worlds first air ship is gunned down by some rogue orcs, and you are the only survivor. Once you awaken, a dying gnome asks you to deliver a ring to a shop in the world's largest town. Just as you are about to set off, you meet a priest who believes that you are the reincarnation of the Panarii religion's "Great One". From here, its pretty much up to you...
Rating = 10
Reason: This is by far my favorite CRPG. The openness of the world is overwhelming at first, but once you begin to get quests (and direction) it is very hard to put this one down. I love the steampunk setting, and the character skill customization is extremely tweakable. The string quartet soundtrack gives the overall package its own unique voice, and the exploration factor is mammoth in scope. I highly recommend this for fans of CRPGs.
Name = Baldur's Gate
System = PC
Plot = You are the ward of the high scribe at the library fortress called Candlekeep. One morning, your master suddenly whisks you away in the night, and is sadly murdered by a heavily armored man who appears to be after you. A tale of overcoming one's birthright and dealing with core issues extends, and it is your choice whether you want to take the high road or skulk the alleyways...
Rating = 9
Reason: I remember getting this game and Final Fantasy VIII at the same time. I played FFVIII first, and then gave this a try. I never went back, and this is still one of my favorite worlds to get lost in today. When I play this game, it is as if I am actually taken away to another place, where I have near-total control over what I can do. I love almost everything about this game, save the only mediocre ending. The plot twist is excellent, but the ending is pretty much standard CRPG fare. I also have Baldur's Gate 2, but for some reason I haven't really given it a chance yet. Thinking back on this game has reawakened my desire to delve back into the world of The Sword Coast, and I think I'll start up BG2 sometime this weekend.
Name = Icewind Dale II
System = PC
Plot = Arriving in the harbor town of Targos, you find that you are in the midst of an attack. Goblins have tunneled through the mountains into the docks, and armys are doing their best to break through the palisades to the north. What is a group of warriors to do in a situation like this, other than fight?
Rating = 9
Reason: Though IWD2 shares its engine (Infinity) with the Baldur's series, the IWD games focus more on the battles and strategies than the story. This time, utilizing the 3rd edition D&D rules, you'll form a party of up to 6, and enter the fray. This frozen area of Faerun is so ambient and crystalline that even in the midst of a bloody melee, you'll still take the time to enjoy the gorgeous rendered backdrops. The sweeping orchestral soundtrack sets the tone of these barren lands, and the endless customization will keep you busy for days and days. The first IWD is good too, but this one is just incredible. My only gripe is trying to find random encounters when that extra leveling-up is needed. Sometimes you're stuck with what you have, but this makes for sturdy pre-planning before the big fights.