For the new Bard's Tale IV Kickstarter update, inXile have put together a commentary version of February's combat system video, featuring the narration of systems designer David Rogers. I would have preferred something entirely new, but it's definitely nice to have. The combat system is more complex than it looks, with multiple damage types and defenses, with the ability to damage armor or penetrate an opponent's mental focus to shut down his current action. That said, in response to some people's concerns about pacing, David makes it clear that not all battles in the game will be as lengthy or elaborate as the one in the video.



The update also announces that inXile have hired a sound designer for Bard's Tale IV - one Brian DiDomenico, who has worked on a variety of games. Makes me wonder what stage of development the game is at now.