The point-and-click flash based interface, repetitive turn-based combat, and half-wit parody "laugh because you have to" humor from "DragonFable" have all returned in "MechQuest"; however, the emphasis on navigating the land and fighting random enemies predominant in Dragon Fable has not. Instead, "MechQuest" has placed large focus on accumulating experience via the completion of minigames that can be found in almost every corner of the 'verse.

The minigames vary in style and type, but more often than not involve shooting enemies, rescuing allies, or avoiding obstacles-and while they can often be quite enjoyable, they generally fall flat due mostly to their repetitive nature. The minigames are usually found via the acceptance of quests that will often involve a small combat sequence at the end. Successful completion of these quests yields experience, allowing to you equip new weapons and parts to your Mech, and credits, allowing you to purchase these parts.

This makes up the bulk of the gameplay experience, and persistent players will soon find themselves piloting a Mech of dangerous and sometimes bizarre proportions. In a fashion not unlike "DragonFable's," players serious about advancement will eventually be forced to spend some money on their credit cards in order to successfully advance through the game. In "DragonFable," players were able to purchase a Dragon Amulet for $19.95 US that allowed them access to more armor, weapons, and quests, as well as their very own dragon. In "MechQuest," the process in vastly similar, offering the ability to become a Star Captain providing strikingly similar benefits-minus the dragon, that is. Compared to other engaging online sci-fi-themed video games, "MechQuest" is sadly one of the better in the genre.

The repetitive nature of the combat and minigames is by far its biggest flaw; however, the customization options available rival those found in some established MMOs such as "Age of Armor" and "Exteel." Of course, like "DragonFable" before it, "MechQuest" is not an MMO in the traditional sense, but a single-player online RPG adventure-and in that regard, is a standout contender in the field.

Review Cody Hargreaves
October 10, 2009