When it comes to turned-based strategy games, I'm picky. In fact I can only think of three that I've really made time for in my life. X-com: Terror for the Deep which sucked my very soul, Age of Wonders which was a pleasant surprise and King's Bounty: The Legend - which continues to enthrall me. What first hooked me were the mingolf-like graphics and quirky storylines, what kept me playing however was the depth of character development.

After a "final exam" complete with a fake puppet dragon our hero is picked as the King's Treasure Hunter. You gather up allies including the typical snakes, griffons and one-eyed monstrosities and set out on interesting quests, marry frog maidens, have their children and talk to a box full of rueful spirits that give you different powers. Check out the demo , it will allow you to play around in the first area - it certainly sold me on the game.