Kingdoms of Amalur is a single-player RPG set in fantasyland like every other single-player RPG whose name doesn’t start with “Fall” and end with “out.” What sets this new title apart is fluid and dynamic combat, with special moves that combo into each other. Mobility on the battlefield seems to be a key component of the Amalur fighting experience, as well. Here’s an interview with developer Ken Rolston about Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning. Ten Ton Hammer has the story.
Fighting in games should be dynamic. I never could get into Warcraft-style combat where everyone would rush, stand on each others toes, and trade punches until someone fell down. I especially hated how bad guys would instantly spin around in place so you could never get behind them. Position meant nothing. It was sad.
Hopefully, more modern games coming out will be a little more active on the fighting front.