Besides Gears of War 2, this was the only other game I was really looking forward to playing at X’08. I almost didn’t have a chance too until somebody had mentioned where it was hidden (with the likes of Viva Piñata”). We had a chance to play through a scripted section of the game. By this I mean a quest area where you only have a few choices for where to go. The rest of the game is supposed to be completely open world with almost no limitation to where you can travel (hopefully as open as Oblivion).

The co-op is quick and simple just like promised. I was already in a single player game, just me and my dog, but as soon as somebody else wanted to join, it was as easy as pushing the “start” button. After that there’s a cloud of smoke and you’re in, easy, simple and fast. This is the same premise for the online play apparently. If you see a friend in your world (who will be represented by a purple orb) all you need to do is walk over click on them and ask them to join in. After that it’s just as quick with a puff of smoke and they’re in. No lobbies, no waiting, and no connection screens.

The game play was smooth and polished (even if the spokesperson said it was yet to be 100% complete) and was pretty much the same as Fable 1. The main difference is the introduction of ranged weapons. Some are a bit skeptical of this, but let me tell you, they are enjoyable. The opportunity to stand side by side in co-op and simultaneously blow away a zombie with a couple shottys speaks for itself.

The dog plays a somewhat more casual role in the game. It’s there but it’s never in the way or annoying. You’ve got it running along side of you telling you when danger is ahead or when treasure is near, but it’s never a problem. I was told that the dog will attack enemies while they are on the ground to finish them off, though I never saw this I’ll take their word for it.

The combat system was revamped in order to allow for combos. Given you’re loaded arsenal of magic, guns and swords, there was definitely a need for change. Not only that but the magic system has been simplified as well. Holding the magic button for a certain amount of time will choose which spell you use. You are able to place any spell in any order, but which ever takes the longest is by default the strongest.

I personally had tons of fun playing Fable 2 and can not wait for it to hit store shelves on October 21st.