loved this game on the xbox when it was first out

Good review man, I might have to get it for the PC then.

Seems like a kung-fu version of KOTOR, just don't have the time though!

I enjoyed this game, but I would not say its a match for the superb KOTOR. Also Jade empire is sadly very linear indeed, I have played less linear platform games. Also I would like there to be more ways of doing each mission and it being open ended. As the review said this does feel like a dumbed down rpg, but is still very playable and good fun none the less.
I recomend this game to lovers of asian films or mythology but not to hardcore d&d players or people hoping for another KOTOR.

This is quite true. However, there will be those who like the linear nature of the game as it's very well suited to the storytelling aspect. I think if Jade Empire was less linear it would lose a bit of its charm. Agree that it's not as good as KOTOR, but it's a nice alternative from some of the heavier RPGs out there. I wouldn't have expected to enjoy this game too much, so it was a pleasant surprise.

As Stan so rightly says though, it's very linear. Won't be everyone's cup of tea but for me it stands out as a back-to-basics romp in a sea of over-ambitious clones.

I actually find linear games more enjoyable sometimes. When something is open ended it leaves a lot more areas open to ruining the experience. sometimes i just wanna play through a game enjoying the story.

It depends on how its done, a well done linear game can feel very open ended. Its just after the likes of KOTOR and their other games, Jade Empire just feels so linear. However saying this I still really enjoyed Jade empire it just feels rather basic compaired to most other games of this type.

I don't see why so many people are using the word 'linear' as a con in games. It's not. It's neither a con or a plus. If something doesn't work right then it's not because it's 'linear', it's because it's done badly.