Summary
- Release Year: 1993
- Genres: Role-playing game (RPG), Turn-based strategy (TBS)
- Platforms: DOS, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: SSI (Strategic Simulations, Inc.)
- Publishers: SSI (Strategic Simulations, Inc.)
Dark Sun: Shattered Lands (1993)
Introduction
Dark Sun: Shattered Lands is a computer role-playing game developed by SSI and released in 1993. It is the first in a series of computer role-playing games based on the popular AD&D 2nd Edition DARK SUN campaign setting.
The game is set in the harsh and unforgiving world of Athas, a world where the sun beats down relentlessly and water is scarce. The land is ruled by sorcerer-kings who wield immense power and enslave the weak.
Gameplay
The player begins the game as a gladiator in the Arena of Draj, forced to fight for the amusement of the sorcerer-king Tectuktitlay. The player must survive this fight, along with many others, and continue onward to escape from the Slave Pens.
Once the player has escaped from the Slave Pens, they are free to explore the world of Athas. The game world is large and open-ended, and the player is free to travel wherever they wish.
The game features a turn-based combat system. The player’s party of up to six characters can engage in combat with enemies using a variety of weapons and spells.
Setting
The world of Athas is a harsh and unforgiving place. The sun beats down relentlessly, and water is scarce. The land is ruled by sorcerer-kings who wield immense power and enslave the weak.
The people of Athas are a hardy and resourceful folk. They have learned to survive in this harsh environment, and they are fiercely independent.
Characters
The player can create a party of up to six characters. Each character can be one of six races: human, elf, halfling, dwarf, thri-kreen, or mul.
Each race has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. For example, humans are versatile and adaptable, while elves are agile and intelligent.
The player can also choose from a variety of character classes, including fighter, thief, cleric, and mage.
Story
The story of Dark Sun: Shattered Lands is non-linear. The player is free to explore the world of Athas and complete quests in any order they wish.
The main goal of the game is to escape from the Slave Pens and defeat the sorcerer-king Tectuktitlay. However, the player is not required to follow this goal. They can choose to explore the world of Athas and complete side quests instead.
Reception
Dark Sun: Shattered Lands was critically acclaimed upon release. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, its detailed and immersive world, and its challenging combat system.
The game was a commercial success, selling over 200,000 copies worldwide. It was followed by two sequels, Dark Sun: Wake of the Ravager (1995) and Dark Sun: Throne of Athas (1998).
Legacy
Dark Sun: Shattered Lands is considered to be one of the best computer role-playing games of all time. It is still played and enjoyed by fans today.
The game has had a significant impact on the video game industry. It helped to popularize the DARK SUN campaign setting, and it inspired the creation of other computer role-playing games set in harsh and unforgiving worlds.
Conclusion
Dark Sun: Shattered Lands is a classic computer role-playing game that is still enjoyed by fans today. Its innovative gameplay, immersive world, and challenging combat system make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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