WhileTainted Grail: The Fall Of Avalonisn’t the first game of its kind, it certainly feels like a fresh take on the genre. What does it do differently that makes it stand out? How does it compare to time-vetted titles likeThe Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim, which have been around for well over a decade and still receive support?
We’ll dive into the details of what Tainted Grail: The Fall Of Avalon does differently. Whether you’re looking to compare before you buy a copy or are just curious to know what the differences are, here’s what Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon does better than Skyrim.
10The Unstuck Button
Rock Climbing Has Never Been Easier
It’s a well-known fact that the road less traveled is far more rewarding, especially when you go completely off-road in an RPG and start climbing the side of the mountain instead of taking the stairs four steps to the left. Who knows what treasures you might find that you would otherwise miss.
Of course, there’s always the chance that you’ll get stuck and become lost at sea or wedged between the rocks. The unstuck button in the main menu is a godsend. It transports you to a safe location nearby at no cost and without penalizing you for being a bit too adventurous.
9Armors And Weapons Look As Cool As They Feel
I Finally Feel Like An Adventurer
When you start on your adventure in Skyrim, you’re prepared to wear bulky iron and steel or the unstylish fur armor until you get your desired gear–usually with enchantments. However, Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon does things differently. Even the most basic gear from the Island Asylum can be a staple in your inventory beyond the first act if you want it to.
Aside from that, there are plenty of dark and twisted designs that tread the line between Gothic and horror with ease. Almost every set of armor you find will have a unique style that can be upgraded to suit your needs in combat while making you look (and feel) like the hero everyone assumes you are.
8Rumpolt’s Revenge Spell
So. Much. Cheese.
Skyrim has Sheogorath and the Wabbajack, but does it have a spell that turns your enemies into an explosive bundle of cheese? Sure, Namira’s ring lets you eat the flesh of your foes, but Rumpolt’s revenge allows you to transform people into cheese and cook with them.
It’s a very chaotic and unique spell, and the first time I used it, I cackled like a witch over a boiling cauldron. The best part is that the effects are permanent, so you might end up talking to a pile of cheese if you use it on the wrong NPC and get forced into dialogue with them mere moments after the spell takes hold.
7Story Progression Is Clear And Natural
No More Wondering, “Are We There Yet?”
Clear and distinct acts makes the game much more enjoyable. The open map of Skyrim is, for sure, a game-changer, but having each region designated to a different act makes it much easier to gauge when it’s time to move on, how close you are to the end, and how much is left for you to complete.
Aside from that, the different factions move across each region, giving you a steady pace throughout your playthrough in all regards. While you can rush through each of the different questlines in Skyrim, you can’t finish all of them in Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon without progressing through the main story.
6Choices Are More Meaningful
Most Options Are Morally Grey
In Skyrim, you can’t side with Alduin or turn the Thieves Guild over to the authorities. The most you can really do is influence the civil war or decide whether to join the Dark Brotherhood or bring them to justice. However, in Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon, you can greatly impact the future.
Take up your sword and slay the Knights of the Round Table for the sake of freedom or align yourself with Kamelot. Your choices will shape how the story unfolds and which questlines you can complete. The best part is that there are no right answers. You’ll always be left wondering if you did the right thing, and we think that’s beautiful.
5Romance Feels Genuine, Not Forced
Poly-Friendly Is A Plus
Skyrim may have marriage, but Tainted Grail: The Fall Of Avalon hasromance. Forget running an errand and making an NPC instantly swoon over you. You’ll actually have to earn the adoration and affection of your potential lover by sacrificing time, money, and literally pieces of your heart. You’re either all in, or you’re single–but thankfully, no one seems to care if you take on multiple lovers.
Despite theromances in Tainted Grail: The Fall Of Avalonbeing added as an afterthought compared to the rest of the game’s content, they feel more meaningful and realistic. Sure, I’m the one that always marries Vilkas in Skyrim, but that’s because the plot demands it. In Avalon, all romances follow a similar series of quests that build a relationship slowly. Of course, that just means there are even more ways to mess it up, but where’s the fun if there’s no risk? At least Avalon doesn’t have anything against multiple lovers at a time.
4If You Steal A Horse, It’s Yours
You Probably Won’t Use It, But It’s A Nice Touch
Finally, I don’t need to spend my hard-earned gold on a majestic steed. However, the number of horses is significantly smaller. Thankfully, you’re able to just sneak up and grab one and it magically becomes yours. No more bargaining with the stablehand or trying not to get caught stealing one.
And if you are caught, it’s not the horse that snitched on you. It’s a skill issue.
The horses also have names, making them much more personable than the horses in Skyrim (the exception being Shadowmere, who is the goodest horse). Daisy is by far the best in my opinion, though there are several others you can grab. The controls might feel a bit wonky, but it’s not a fantasy game if you can’t ride a horse into the sunset after a long day of questing.
You can also pet the horses, which Skyrim doesn’t let you do.
3Detailed Dungeon Delves
You’ll Forget You’re Even In A Dungeon
There are plenty of dungeons in both games, but Tainted Grail: The Fall Of Avalon takes dungeons to the next level. More than just a cave or small dungeon delve, there are entire separate maps within maps that encompass some of the largest dungeons. Even the Blood Lake has a pretty expansive dungeon within it, hidden just below the crimson current.
These dungeons are so large that there are entire questlines inside them, along with bounties to collect as well. You’ll forget that you’re even in a dungeon as you’re able to often see the sky, or a version of it, with the only reminder being unable to place a campfire.
2The Wyrdstalker
Always Watching, Always Waiting…
When night falls in Skyrim, it’s dark. When night falls in Avalon, you’d better run to the nearest Menhir. If you aren’t careful or fast, you’ll hear the toll of the bell signaling that you’re being followed. The Wyrdstalker is a nightmare made real, following you from the shadows and striking when you least expect it.
There’s nothing as frightening as the Wyrdstalker, and there’s no comparison in Skyrim. Even the Dragon Priests feel like a walk in the park, and at least you know where they will be. The Wyrdstalker can appear anywhere at any time during the Wyrdnight, and your only hope is to flee into the light of the Menhirs.
1Detailed Origin Story
Are You A Druid, A Thief, Or A Recruit?
Skyrim has been around long enough that there are plenty of mods to give you an alternate start to the classic opening with Ralof in the back of the cart on the way to Helgen for your execution. Tainted Grail: The Fall Of Avalon takes the next step to not only allow you to pick your origin, but earn a skill boost depending on your choices.
This background gives you a head start in your desired life and also provides the opportunity to roleplay from the get-go in a more specific way. Be a chef, a craftsman, a thief, or the last Druid from your tribe. The world is at your fingertips, and there are plenty of ways to serve King Arthur’s spirit as you venture across Avalon to find the pieces of his soul.
