While the first few months of the year are traditionally the slowest for the gaming community, action / RPG fans must be giddy with delight as two of the hottest console titles are released within mere weeks of each other. One is the highly anticipated Dark Alliance II while the other is Champions of Norrath from Snowblind Studios, makers of the original Dark Alliance. As a result, Black Isle has picked up development duty for the Baldur’s Gate sequel and has adopted a “more is better” philosophy. From additional weapons, armor and spells to new monsters and dozens of levels to explore, Dark Alliance II seeks to satisfy the lofty expectations that have been thrust upon the franchise.