26 stycznia 2021 15:06   (Last edited: 3 lata, 9 miesięcy temu)

What we've got here is, essentially, one of the most legendary FMs ever conceived. Originally released in late 2001, read: infancy of Thief modding, it surely influenced whole community, raising the bar for all future mapmakers - we're talking of Inverted Manse, Smuggler's Request or Calendra's Cistern kind of impact. For this reason alone it's worth a shot.

I believe the technical aspects were, originally, THE selling point of 7th Crystal. The bulk of the mission takes place in a mansion so rich that it makes Bafford look like a stable boy in comparison. It's not only vast - easily rivaling the opera house in Song of the Caverns - but also full of lavish chambers painted in all shades of gold and red. Set during winter (January 24th), the inner courtyards, gazebos and snow-clad gravestones are pleasure to watch. They also have a concert hall in the east wing!

7th Crystal might've been one of the first FMs introducing cutscenes and Half-Life style intro. Voice acting is very good for its time: Loanstar does a convincing Stephen Russell impersonation as Garrett, and Wynne's tone is both sweet and... treacherous! The latter is mostly known for her work in Shadows of Metal Age campaign (playing the main character Zaya), so T2X enthusiasts should be delighted to check out her first appearance. Even though cinematics aren't mandatory in my book, Saturnine and co. deserve heaps of praise for time and effort put in this project.

But it's not only about audiovisuals. The mission has quite interesting (albeit grim) storyline, a number of cool objectives and enough variety to accomodate most types of Thief fans. A mansion level at its core, but more focused on getting two or three crucial items instead of sweeping through hundred chests and drawers. I also fancied the pinch of mystery and horror undertones, but I'm not going to reveal the details - just remember there is SOME undead element included, so more fragile audience might be bothered. In terms of length, it took me some 3 hours to complete, but I never felt bored or irritated. Aside from one infamous tough spot it's very streamlined, even relaxing experience.

I haven't played many FMs yet - I prefer to pace myself and delve in only sporadically - but 7th Crystal stood the test of time really darn well. Maybe it wouldn't get "11/10" or "Greatest of All Time" ratings anymore, but still, it doesn't scream "ancient!" or "2001" at all. I found it solid, memorable, definitely worth my time. Just short of later era masterpieces.