Torchlight (PC, Mac) in 250 words.

Torchlight appeals to so many of my idiosyncrasies that I am bemused as to why its spiritual predecessor Diablo never appealed to me. Both offer lush fantasy settings and the draw of improved equipment with every vanquished foe that fuels my obsessive tendencies. Maybe I have simply matured as a gamer, or perhaps it is Torchlight’s refinements to the point-and-click, loot hording, action RPG genre that have me enamored.

Every change Torchlight has made to Diablo has focused on making it more appealing to newcomers. Most obvious of these changes is the appearance. A brighter palette, while remaining moody, adds lightness as do the exaggerated characters in the 3D world.

A distinct style made up of bold colours compliments the games mood perfectly.

Alterations are not limited to visuals; tweaks to gameplay also take center stage. Foremost among these additions is the inclusion of a pet. These little critters not only provide space for items and additional powers (cue skeleton summoning dogs), but also deliver the greatest innovation over Diablo, personal shoppers. Loading up a pet with unwanted loot will see them disappearing back to the town of Torchwood to sell it. It’s a tiny change, but one that released me from the burden of excess items, while stilling reaping some of their benefits.

At $20 it is hard not to recommend Torchlight. Accessible, dip in and out gameplay offers a fun distraction. Though the game is quite short the attraction of harder difficulties and increasingly powerful items prove a constant draw, for me at least.