Classic isometric-action/role-playing continues, on home computers and for the first time on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. As in the 2002 original and its sequel, players begin Dungeon Siege III by designing their main hero and choosing a character class. As he moves through the adventure, exploring the world of Ehb and accomplishing quests, the hero may be joined by certain NPCs he meets in his travels, to form a player-controlled party of adventurers. The game can also be played cooperatively, in both same-screen and online multiplayer modes. Character-specific loot drops help to keep the hack-and-slash action flowing.<br><br>As an alternative to the traditional mouse-and-keyboard control scheme, combat in the cross-platform game can be controlled through battle stances. Different stances prepare a character for different offensive and defensive situations, with three main abilities available in each stance. Players can switch quickly between stances to access different attacks and skills. A selection of new abilities becomes available with experience, allowing a character to be gradually custom-developed for a favorite combat role.<br><br>As well as their different combat proficiencies, characters have different perspectives on the tumultuous events occurring throughout the land. The player's understanding of the game-world truths and consequences broadens as party members vocalize their sometimes-conflicting concerns, but the group must be guided to work together in order to survive. In good "epic RPG" form, the development of the story is poignantly influenced by decisions that the player makes, which may alter alliances, affect opportunities, and ultimately determine who is victorious and who has been vanquished at the adventure's conclusion. <br><br>In ages past, the storied Kingdom of Ehb was defended by the virtuous warriors of the legendary 10th Legion. Betrayed by the people they were sworn to protect, soldiers of the Legion have been disgraced and driven underground. As a new darkness looms, the few loyal Legionnaires who remain must regroup and retaliate, to save an untrusting nation from an evil it does not yet fully comprehend. Offering console-friendly adventure in the series' storied setting, this three-quel was developed by Obsidian Entertainment, under consultation with Chris Taylor's Gas Powered Games, creator of the original Dungeon Siege.