Summary
- Release Year: 1989
- Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: Amiga, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS, Family Computer, Nintendo Entertainment System
- Developers: Westwood Associates
- Publishers: FCI, Pony Canyon, Strategic Simulations
Advanced Dungeons & Dragons: Hillsfar (1989)
A Comprehensive Review
Released in 1989, Advanced Dungeons & Dragons: Hillsfar is a groundbreaking role-playing game that seamlessly blends the best elements of traditional RPGs with fast-paced action gameplay. Set in the Forgotten Realms campaign setting, Hillsfar offers players an immersive and ever-changing experience with each visit to the titular city.
Gameplay
Hillsfar is a dungeon crawler at its core, but it also incorporates many elements of action-adventure games. Players can explore the city of Hillsfar, interact with its inhabitants, and embark on a variety of quests. The game features a unique real-time combat system for its mini-games, including arena battles, archery competitions, and equestrian events.
One of the most innovative aspects of Hillsfar is its character import system. Players can transfer their characters from the Pool of Radiance or Azure Bonds AD&D role-playing games, or create a new character from scratch. The game’s quests and challenges will adapt to suit the player’s character class and abilities.
Setting
The city of Hillsfar is a bustling metropolis located on the western coast of the Sea of Fallen Stars. It is a major trading hub and a center of culture and learning. However, Hillsfar is also a city of contrasts, with a dark underbelly of crime and corruption.
The game’s quests take players to all corners of Hillsfar, from the opulent palaces of the nobility to the squalid slums of the poor. Players will encounter a wide variety of characters, from friendly merchants to treacherous thieves.
Story
Hillsfar does not have a linear storyline. Instead, the game generates a new quest each time the player enters the city. These quests are varied and can range from simple errands to complex dungeon crawls.
The game’s quests are often non-linear, giving players the freedom to choose how they want to complete them. This open-ended design encourages exploration and experimentation.
Graphics and Sound
For its time, Hillsfar’s graphics were impressive. The game used a top-down perspective and featured detailed character sprites and environments. The game’s sound effects and music were also top-notch, helping to create an immersive and atmospheric experience.
Reception
Hillsfar was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, immersive setting, and character import system. The game was also a hit with fans of the AD&D tabletop RPG, who appreciated the faithful adaptation of the game’s rules and setting.
Legacy
Hillsfar is considered to be one of the greatest AD&D video games ever made. It was one of the first games to successfully blend RPG and action elements, and it set a new standard for dungeon crawlers. The game’s influence can still be seen in modern RPGs, such as the Baldur’s Gate series.
Conclusion
Advanced Dungeons & Dragons: Hillsfar is a classic RPG that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. With its innovative gameplay, immersive setting, and character import system, Hillsfar is a must-play for fans of RPGs and AD&D alike.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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