GameSpot’s report on DarkSpore (and interview video with Casey Weaver)

The controls are really easy, and if you are at all familiar with hack-and-slash PC games, then this should be a no-brainer. To move your creature, you left click anywhere on the ground and attack by pointing and clicking vigorously on an enemy. Numerical hotkeys are lined up for you to use your special abilities, which are unique to each creature. We played around with a stun attack, chain lightning, and a bubble shield, which came in handy when we faced the world’s boss. You have an ammunition bar that drains, so you can’t spam these abilities forever. Some of these abilities can only be used if all the members of your squad are alive, so it’s important to pay close attention to your health. Using the Q, W, E keys, you can quickly swap out members of your team when your health is running low–but be warned that some foes can use an ability that prevents you from switching. As you pick up healing items, your entire squad will heal together, so you’ll be as good as new in no time. There is a major focus on loot in Darkspore, so as you slash your way through, there will be plenty of items to pick up and catalysts to buff your heroes.

GameSpot – DarkSpore hands-on from PAX 2010