Summary
- Release Year: 1987
- Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: Amiga, Apple II, Apple IIGS, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS, Mac
- Developers: Infocom
- Publishers: Infocom
Beyond Zork: The Coconut of Quendor (1987)
Introduction
Released in 1987, Beyond Zork: The Coconut of Quendor was the 29th interactive fiction game from Infocom, and the fifth and final installment in the Zork series. It marked a significant departure from the text-only, puzzle-driven format of its predecessors, incorporating elements of role-playing games such as character statistics, levels, and combat.
Gameplay
Beyond Zork takes place in the Southlands of Quendor, a vast and varied realm filled with lush forests, treacherous mountains, and bustling towns. The player controls an unnamed adventurer who is tasked by the Implementors, a group of godlike beings based on Infocom’s game designers, with recovering the Coconut of Quendor, a powerful artifact that has fallen into the hands of an evil Ur-grue.
The game is played from a first-person perspective, with the player exploring the world through a combination of text commands and an on-screen map. The map provides a visual representation of the player’s surroundings, making it easier to navigate the game’s large and complex world.
In addition to puzzle-solving, Beyond Zork features a combat system that allows the player to engage in turn-based battles with enemies. The player’s character gains experience and levels up as they defeat enemies, improving their stats and abilities.
Setting
The Southlands of Quendor is a rich and detailed setting, with a diverse range of locations to explore. From the bustling city of Quendor to the treacherous Shadow Forest, each area has its own unique atmosphere and challenges.
The game’s world is inhabited by a variety of creatures, both friendly and hostile. The player will encounter helpful villagers, wise old wizards, and fearsome monsters as they journey through the Southlands.
Story
The story of Beyond Zork is both epic and humorous. The player’s quest to recover the Coconut of Quendor takes them on a journey through the Southlands, where they must overcome a variety of obstacles and challenges.
Along the way, the player will encounter a cast of memorable characters, including the Implementors, the Ur-grue, and the enigmatic Coconut itself. The game’s story is full of twists and turns, and the player’s choices will ultimately determine the fate of Quendor.
Legacy
Beyond Zork: The Coconut of Quendor was a critical and commercial success, and is considered one of the best interactive fiction games ever made. It was one of the first games to successfully blend the genres of interactive fiction and role-playing games, and its innovative gameplay and memorable story have influenced countless games since.
Beyond Zork remains a popular game today, and is still enjoyed by fans of interactive fiction and retro gaming. The game has been ported to a variety of platforms, including Windows, Mac, and mobile devices.
Conclusion
Beyond Zork: The Coconut of Quendor is a classic interactive fiction game that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Its blend of puzzle-solving, role-playing, and humor has made it a favorite of gamers for over 30 years. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Zork series or a newcomer to interactive fiction, Beyond Zork is a must-play game.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
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