Magic: The Gathering – Battlegrounds is a good attempt at bringing this popular card game to life. Those that are purists to M:TG may not like some of the changes (like eliminating turn-based play, providing a limited amount of creatures and enchantments, and creature limits on the playing field), but in order to introduce the game onto a playable format, some sacrifices had to be made. And they were necessary changes – keeping the player engrossed for hours.
The levels are varied in skill, and some tasks in Quest mode (1 player) left me stumped for quite a few attempts. Because you are playing the computer (or another player) in real time, strategy must be executed quickly, using all spells at your disposal – before your opponent does. The arcade mode allows you to customise spellbooks and create the perfect character for strategic advantage.
Any gamer can easily pick up the ins-and-outs of M:TG-B, but it does take time to get used to the menus to cast spells and control your character. Then, comes how to use what, and where – a skill that will come in time.
All in all, top marks for not following other card-based games and bringing an old favourite into a new light.