Lost Kingdoms

Released exclusively for the Nintendo GameCube in 2002, Lost Kingdoms is an action role-playing game with collectible card mechanics that stands out from the usual fantasy monotony. Lost Kingdoms was developed by FromSoftware - yes, the later makers of Dark Souls - and published by Activision in the West. In the role of the young princess Katya, you set out to save the kingdom of Argwyll. A mysterious black wall of fog is spreading across the land and devouring all life. Only Katya has the power to oppose the evil with legendary rune card magic.

The world of Lost Kingdoms is dark, mysterious and full of fantasy feeling. The levels in Lost Kingdoms are linear, but lovingly designed: Castle ruins, cursed forests, abandoned villages and more. The melancholy music and restrained narrative style lend Lost Kingdoms an almost dreamlike atmosphere. Graphically, Lost Kingdoms makes solid use of the GameCube's power - the creature designs and effects of the card spells are particularly impressive.

Lost Kingdoms is an unusual mix of action RPG and card collecting game that is particularly exciting for players who are looking for something outside the mainstream. The combination of strategy, real-time battles and collecting makes Lost Kingdoms unique - and the dark, quiet style creates a very special atmosphere.