Summary
- Release Year: 1995
- Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: DOS
- Developers: Silver Lightning Software
- Publishers: Merit Software
Trial by Magic (1995): A Challenging and Rewarding Adventure Game
Trial by Magic is a 1995 adventure game developed and published by Westwood Studios. The game is set in a medieval fantasy world and follows the story of a young adventurer who must overcome a series of deadly trials in order to claim a legendary treasure.
The game was praised for its challenging puzzles, immersive world, and engaging story. It was also a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide.
Gameplay
Trial by Magic is a point-and-click adventure game. The player controls the protagonist, a young adventurer named Gareth, as he explores a variety of environments, solves puzzles, and interacts with other characters.
The game’s puzzles are challenging but fair. They require the player to use their wits and observation skills to find solutions. The game also features a number of action sequences, which add variety to the gameplay.
Setting
Trial by Magic is set in a medieval fantasy world. The game’s world is rich and detailed, with a variety of locations to explore, from dark forests to treacherous mountains.
The game’s world is also home to a variety of creatures, both friendly and hostile. The player will encounter everything from talking animals to deadly dragons.
Story
The story of Trial by Magic follows Gareth, a young adventurer who dreams of becoming a hero. One day, Gareth hears about a legendary treasure that is hidden in a dangerous forest. The treasure is said to be guarded by a series of deadly trials.
Gareth sets out on a journey to find the treasure and claim it for himself. Along the way, he will encounter a variety of challenges, including treacherous traps, deadly monsters, and cunning puzzles.
Characters
The player controls Gareth, the protagonist of Trial by Magic. Gareth is a brave and resourceful adventurer who is determined to overcome the trials and claim the treasure.
In addition to Gareth, the player will also encounter a variety of other characters, both friendly and hostile. These characters include:
- Anya: A wise old woman who helps Gareth on his journey.
- Sir Reginald: A brave knight who is also seeking the treasure.
- The Trialmaster: The mysterious creator of the trials.
Reception
Trial by Magic was praised for its challenging puzzles, immersive world, and engaging story. It was also a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide.
The game was nominated for several awards, including Adventure Game of the Year from Computer Gaming World. It also won the award for Best Adventure Game from the Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences.
Legacy
Trial by Magic is considered to be one of the greatest adventure games of all time. It has been praised for its challenging puzzles, immersive world, and engaging story. The game has also been credited with helping to popularize the adventure game genre.
Trial by Magic has been ported to a variety of platforms, including the PC, Mac, and Amiga. It has also been released on GOG.com and Steam.
Conclusion
Trial by Magic is a challenging and rewarding adventure game that will test your wits and reflexes. It is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
8/10