The game takes place on two different continents: Medeva (inspired by medieval Europe) and Orenia (reminiscent of China/Japan of the same period). Instead of creating yet another Tolkien-inspired fantasy setting, Volition tried to create its own, and while certain races and designs resemble the familiar concept, the rest of the lore remains rather original, which motivates you to explore the world and learn about its history, events and everyday lives of its characters.

Summoner's story is centred on a young farmer named Joseph. Nine years after accidentally destroying his home village and promising to never use his summoning powers again, Joseph is living a peaceful life in the village of Masad. However, Orenian troops attack the village in search of a boy with a mark of a summoner. With his attempt to escape the village and find his old friend, Yago, begins Joseph's saga, filled with enough twists to keep you entertained until the final credits. Even if the story provides some genuine “I've seen this before” moments, it uses them wisely and sometimes pulls off rather unpredictable situations.

Even though the game is very linear and doesn't offer a lot of choices (which makes it feel like a JRPG sometimes), it offers surprisingly good side-quests. Some require thinking outside the box, and quite a few lead to additional lore details, surprising outcomes and hilarious situations, so don't hesitate to take your time and explore the world around you.

And last, but not least, Summoner moves away from traditional fantasy RPGs by replacing orchestral scores with an exciting electronic soundtrack.

If you can look past the exploitable combat system, poor AI and a number of annoying bugs, then give Summoner a chance. Its unique setting, interesting story, inspiring soundtrack and well-designed sidequests will pay off any frustration.