: Players choose to invest in either Magick (16 colleges with 80 spells) or Technology (8 disciplines with 56 degrees).
: It received numerous "RPG of the Year" awards in 2001, with high praise specifically for its writing, musical score, and non-linear quest design. Arcanum: Of Steamworks and Magick Obscura
These retrospectives explore Arcanum's unique setting and explain why it is considered a 'flawed masterpiece' by many RPG fans: Arcanum: Of Steamworks and Magick Obscura Review YouTube · MandaloreGaming Why is Arcanum a Flawed Masterpiece? | Retro Review YouTube · 2 Headed Hero : Players choose to invest in either Magick
The central conflict is the literal, physical incompatibility between magick and technology. | Retro Review YouTube · 2 Headed Hero
: High magickal aptitude causes mechanical devices—like guns or steam engines—to malfunction or fail. Conversely, powerful technology can dampen or cause magickal spells to "fizzle".