Video Game Novels Reviewed

The editors at GamesRadar have reviewed ten popular novels based on video games, including Mass Effect: Revelation, World of Warcraft: Cycle of Hatred, Diablo – The Sin War: Birthright, and others. A bit about Revelation:

Fanboy factor?
Mass Effect’s universe is giant, and, with just one game out there, largely unexplored. Revelation delves into humanity’s space-conquering advancements and its new political and social structure. Also, there’s lots of shooting things and spectacular alien technology/killing techniques to be admired. Bonza.

Is it any good?
Far better than any other novel in our list, which is quite probably down to Karpyshyn’s direct involvement with the actual game. Instead of filling out a pre-prepared plot in a pre-prepared universe, Karpyshyn is exploring a galaxy he helped to create and populate, and his own interest and passion is clear from the pacy and engaging action. That said, the dialogue is typical dreary genre stuff, and the characters are your sci-fi regulars – gruff but thoughtful men and strong but passionate women.