Overview
Magic versus machine. Arcanum imagined fantasy’s industrial revolution—steam trains, factories, and firearms existed alongside elves, orcs, and ancient sorcery. The technology/magic divide wasn’t just aesthetic; high-tech characters literally disrupted magical effects. Troika Games created one of the most reactive RPGs ever made, where character build, race, and choices dramatically altered available paths.
Fast facts
- Developer: Troika Games.
- Year: 2001.
- Setting: Arcanum (Victorian fantasy).
- Innovation: Tech/magic duality.
Technology vs magic
| Path | Characteristics |
|---|
| Technological | Guns, gadgets, schematics |
| Magical | Spells, enchantments |
| Interaction | Tech disrupts magic |
| Aptitude | Sliding scale |
Character reactivity
| Factor | Impact |
|---|
| Race | NPC attitudes |
| Beauty/ugliness | Dialogue options |
| Intelligence | Conversation complexity |
| Reputation | World reaction |
World design
| Element | Implementation |
|---|
| Industrial cities | Tarant, Caladon |
| Wilderness | Exploration areas |
| Factions | Political groups |
| Multiple endings | Varied conclusions |
Combat options
| Style | Approach |
|---|
| Real-time | Action combat |
| Turn-based | Tactical mode |
| Stealth | Avoidance |
| Diplomacy | Talking through |
Legacy
| Aspect | Influence |
|---|
| Setting originality | Unique worldbuilding |
| Reactivity | Design benchmark |
| Cult status | Devoted fanbase |
| Spiritual successors | Inspiration source |
See also