Oxidizing Material

Graphics are second to gameplay. Remember that.

Walross

I don't like the fact that in Deus Ex II, they'll be merging the skill system with the nanobot mods system (ie, they won't be separate anymore) to simplify the game. I don't want it simplified, dammit, I liked it the way it was.

What I do like about it is that they'll be incorporating something very like the Thief stealth engine. Sweet.

Farren

I agree about the nanbots/skills thing. Why take depth out of the game, dammit? But Warren Specter is a genius, so I'm sure he has a good reason. Probably slimming it down cos they're adding fat elsewhere and they don't want it to get too complex.

As far as sneaking is concerned, I read they started out with the Unreal 2 engine then decided it wasn't up to the job, so they've developed an engine that is.

I haven't seen the demo referred to but I read a preview describing shooting the hinge off a light fitting, resulting in the fitting careening around on its other hinge and wildly throwing altering shadows all over the place. Apparently the light and shadows department was where the Unreal 2 engine didn't cut the mustard, so these guys must be taking stealth seriously.

Foxfire

I, too, have played Deus Ex, and yes, it rules. I, along with most other people I know that own the game, chose to merge with the A.I. and dominate the world before the Tong/Everett endings. I simply LOVED the open-endedness of the game. Expect me to barricade myself in my computer room once Invisible War comes out.