In the not-so-far future, governments have made way for mega-corporations, but their pursuit of profits at any cost isn't to everyone's liking. As a consequence, armed rebels have taken the fight to the streets. This is the Cyberpunk era you live in, and this is where you manage to get yourself killed.

Then you suddenly get better. You awake in a lab without memories, but with a gem implanted into your forehead, and with the minions of NeCrom hot on your trail. If you want to find out why this guy is after you and why you suddenly have access to a mystical power called “Darklight”, you'd better run – NOW!

Thus starts CyberMage: Darklight Awakening, by David W. Bradley of Wizardry fame. At first glance, CyberMage may be a futuristic first-person shooter, but it's driven by a compelling story and incorporates several RPG elements. There are traps, secrets and puzzles, exploration is an important (and quite rewarding) part of the game and the atmosphere is immersive. You can (and will have to) talk to NPCs to gather information – friendlies and hostiles alike. Not everybody should be killed just because the game looks like a shooter! Gambling and spending the money in different stores are options just as are watching TV or driving tanks. And then there are your “magical” skills.

CyberMage's way of imparting new spells on the player's character is also intriguing. You'll also learn a new Darklight power by being exposed to its effects! This makes for interesting situations: running from an enemy with a strong power might be an option if your health is low, but, if it's not, charging him to get hit and return his gift would be the better alternative.

There's also a more traditional arsenal for nonmagical combat. Each weapon works differently against each type of enemy, while your body armour is split into separate parts which can be repaired or replaced.