So what do you do when Death takes a holiday?

This interesting premise is the thrust behind DiscWorld II: Mortality Bytes! from Psygnois and Perfect Entertainment. You take the role of Rincewind, arguably the most inept sorceror on the planet as he quests to discover what exactly is going on.

And what is going on? Bluntly, the dead aren't dying. Souls that would normally be harvested by Death are hanging around, getting in the way and generally making life difficult for those still living in the city of Ankh-Morpork. The sorcerors of the Unseen University might let this go without even noticing, except one of their own, the aged Windle Poons has died, and hasn't had the common decency to leave.

Ultimately, Rincewind discovers that Death has taken leave of his job because he's unhappy with his image. He's a figure of fear when he'd rather be a media star. So, it's up to you as Rincewind to discover a way to make Death the darling of the people.

Discworld II: Mortality Bytes! is a very typical adventure game, where you must find items and use them in correct combinations to solve a series of puzzles. It's a real cut above the average for a number of reasons, though. First, the animations and graphics are very nice, with a good, cartoonish feel throughout. In fact, experienced gamers who have a habit of turning off animations will lose out, since they are so well done that they merit watching.

More than that, Discworld II is often astonishingly funny. This is due in no small part to the excellent voice work by Eric Idle as Rincewind. There are a number of excellent sight gags, re-occuring jokes and more spread throughout the game that makes it a true joy to play.

Third, the plot is an interesting one. The locations are all well-designed, the puzzles range from the incredibly simple to the truly devious. Some areas will breeze by while others will have you stumped for a couple of days.

In short, Discworld II: Mortality Bytes! is a thoroughly enjoyable game that will entertain both young and old, experienced and inexperienced. If you don't enjoy this game, check yourself to see if your sense of humor is still connected. Or see if you still have a pulse. After all, Death is on vacation... ~ Steve Honeywell, All Game Guide

Very nice, colorful and cartoonish. Appropriate for the tone of the game. The animations are worth watching. ~ Steve Honeywell, All Game Guide

Tremendous voice talent that lives up to its billing. ~ Steve Honeywell, All Game Guide

This game is thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish, even when you are stumped. ~ Steve Honeywell, All Game Guide

Once you know the plot and the puzzles, there's not much reason to go back. ~ Steve Honeywell, All Game Guide