Bioware has confirmed the name, and few tentative details surrounding their new exclusive RPG, which they plan to fully unveil at this year's Tokyo Games Show. Jade Empire is the name, and it is the second of the other two confirmed when Knights of the Old Republic was announced. The third RPG is a mysterious new outing for the PC.

In the new game you will assume the role of Jade, a sort of Karate Kid, as he embarks upon the symbolic journey towards manhood, and attempts to gain kudos and success along the way. Of course, young Jade will change has he encounters new experiences and situations, in the tradition of the bildungsroman, and making choices between good and evil will shape the players character and destiny. A skills system will be included and variety of fighting disciplines will be Jade's to master.

Chinese, Mayan and Aztec architecture and culture will be apparent in their influence in Jade Empire, and I guess we'll just have to wait for TGS 2003 for more details - unless surprise us pleasantly at next week that is.

By Luke Guttridge