I remember when I first played Jade Empire years ago. It was not long after I had beaten Kotor, and I don't entirely remember the circumstances surrounding my discovery of this game, but I'm pretty sure it wasn't new when I picked it up. I remember the game fondly, and when I discovered it was in the Xbox Live Marketplace I thought I would download it. The game stands the test of time very well, and graphics wise it was one of the most gorgeous games of it's time. It's button mashing martial art style gameplay is what made it truly unique, and felt more like a cross between a Hack and Slash Action game and an RPG. What really makes Jade empire shine though is the same thing with most BioWare games and that is the game's story and setting. Jade Empire immerses you in the land of ancient mythical China and the story is pretty simple. You start off learning that you are the last of the Spirit Monks and it is your duty to rescue the mythical water dragon from the Evil Empire. Along the way you meet several interesting character ranging from a drunken Lumberjack to a Toad Demon. You even get a chance to find love along the way.
Due to big titles like Kotor and Mass Effect Jade Empire is regrettably too often overlooked title in BioWare games. If you've never tried this game before and have a pension for BioWare's extensive skill of story telling then Jade Empire is a game that you will not want to miss. You can now download this title through the Xbox Live Marketplace.
