Eh, after 3 years being registered on the forums without making a single post I think it's due time.

Anyways, I'm going to suggest a game called Mount&Blade. While it's an indie game currently in beta stage (0.960, last beta version before the full game is released), developed by only 2 people (A turkish couple), it still packs a considerate punch even when compared to newer games. True, the graphics might not be that good compared to next-gen, or even games before that, but they serve their purpose well. The overall sound could be better (Everyone will grunt in the same way when they are hit for example), but the music fits the athmosphere quite perfectly.
The controls of the game are easy to learn and the way the it utilizes horse combat is unique and outstanding. I'm pretty sure no other games has as realistic horse combat as this, I could be wrong though, so correct me if I am.
The way normal combat, i.e on foot is carried out is no less brilliant. While the animations leave much to be wished for when it comes to the fighting department, the system in itself is more than good enough. Basically, if you want to with a sword from the right, just move your mouse slightly to the right (or left depending on how your controls are set up) and hold/click the attack button, which will make the player slash from the right. The same applies for slashing from the left. Slashing from above is done the same way, only this time you move your mouse slightly upwards, while a thrusting attack requires you to look slightly downwards. Parrying can be done in three different ways, two of them which are, automatic (just hold the parry/block button just before the enemy strikes) and a system which requires you to parry the attacks manually by moving your sword where the strike will land. Of course, there are also shields which eliminates the needs for that, but you will still be vulnerable from strikes from behind and from the sides.
Moving in the world is done by moving your character on a map, while fights and walking in towns, castles and villages is done in a 3rd person POV.
The story however, is completely non-existant. Dialogues exists, as do quests, but no story links these together, maybe because it's still in beta stage, or maybe because the developers feels it will limit the game. I simply don't know.
Now on to the real part. Some features of the game:
Set in the 13th century (1200)
Large scale battles with up to 72 soldiers on the field at once. Mods can be dowloaded to allow even greater numbers, 200 for example, or even a whooping 1000 soldiers out on the field at once.
No magic at all. There's no "magic potions" to boost your health, instead, you will have to rest to regain health.
Modding support. Requires knowledge of Python to some extent. Several tutorials on the official forums. Lots of mods have already been released.
Command an army of over 1000 units.
Besiege and conquer towns and castles.
Conquer whole countries.
Join a country and swear vassalage to the king, eventually rising up to the rank of marshall which gives you the right to command even lords.
and more...
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Currently, the company is offering players a Try Before You Buy model which enables you to play the game up until level 6, which after you can, if you liked the game enough, buy a serial key and unlock the rest of the game. I strongly suggest you try the game and even consider buying it, as it is well worth the money. Another advantage of buying it now, instead of waiting now is that while it's in beta it only costs $25 while the full game will cost $39.
Downloads and a forum, where you can find info, help and mod for the game can be reached by going to the official site, www.taleworlds.com.
If you want to see videos from the game, simply search for them on youtube. Most of the videos are from older versions though, so you won't see the full extent of this game before you try it.