mount & blade
this is a game i found on the latest pc format coverdisc. it's still only a beta release, but still enjoyable. if you're into this sort of stuff... it's a mediaeval non-linear rpg with first person combat in real-time, otherwise the adventure element is a bit like heroes of might and magic 3, but on 3D terrain with customizable viewing angles.
i haven't really explored the adventure map as yet, as i've developed quite an addiction to the tournaments available in the neutral starting village. and since they've added a betting system, winning jousts are - after a bit of practive - the quickest and most enjoyable way of raising cash for troops, food, weapons and armour. and it's not 'just' jousting, either:
the tournaments are quick scenarios in an arena, where the two even teams of two or three fight each other with a selection of weapons, such as the two handed sword; one handed sword and shield; lance and shield; bow and arrow. the size of the teams and their starting weapons are generated randomly, along with whether you're on foot or horseback. the controls are intuitive (especially if you've played any of the thief games), the graphics are rudimentary but still give the game a nice feel. for me at least anyway. there's nothing like running down an archer using a bastard sword on horseback. can't wait to go home for more... it's going to be a long day.