Summary
- Release Year: 1991
- Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG), Turn-based strategy (TBS)
- Platforms: Amiga, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: SSI (Strategic Simulations, Inc.)
- Publishers: SSI (Strategic Simulations, Inc.)
Dungeons & Dragons: Secret of the Silver Blades (1991)
Introduction
Released in 1991, Dungeons & Dragons: Secret of the Silver Blades is a classic role-playing game (RPG) set in the Forgotten Realms campaign setting. Developed by Strategic Simulations, Inc. (SSI), it is the third game in the SSI Gold Box series, following Pool of Radiance and Curse of the Azure Bonds.
Gameplay
Secret of the Silver Blades is a turn-based RPG in which the player controls a party of up to six characters. The game world is presented in a 3D first-person perspective, and the player can explore a variety of dungeons, towns, and wilderness areas.
Combat is turn-based and takes place on a grid-based map. The player can choose to attack, cast spells, or use items during their turn. The game features a wide variety of enemies, from goblins and orcs to dragons and demons.
Plot
The story of Secret of the Silver Blades begins in the Dragonspire Mountains, where miners have accidentally released an ancient evil from its prison. The player characters are tasked with finding a way to contain this evil and save the world from destruction.
The player characters travel to a variety of locations in the Forgotten Realms, including the city of Silverymoon, the dwarven kingdom of Mithral Hall, and the elven forest of Cormanthor. They must battle their way through hordes of enemies, solve puzzles, and make difficult choices in order to complete their quest.
Characters
The player can create a party of up to six characters, each with their own unique class and abilities. The character classes available in the game are:
- Fighter
- Cleric
- Thief
- Mage
- Ranger
- Paladin
Each class has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the player must carefully consider the composition of their party when creating their characters.
Reception
Secret of the Silver Blades was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its large and detailed game world, its challenging combat, and its well-written story. The game was also a financial success, selling over 200,000 copies worldwide.
Legacy
Secret of the Silver Blades is considered to be one of the greatest RPGs of all time. It helped to popularize the Forgotten Realms campaign setting and set the standard for future Dungeons & Dragons computer games. The game is still enjoyed by many fans today, and it continues to be a popular choice for those looking for a classic RPG experience.
Additional Information
- Secret of the Silver Blades was the first SSI Gold Box game to feature a 3D game world.
- The game was originally released for MS-DOS, but it was later ported to a variety of other platforms, including Windows, Macintosh, and Amiga.
- The game was followed by two sequels: Hillsfar and Dark Sun: Shattered Lands.
- Secret of the Silver Blades is available for purchase on GOG.com and Steam.
Conclusion
Dungeons & Dragons: Secret of the Silver Blades is a classic RPG that offers a challenging and rewarding experience. The game’s large and detailed world, challenging combat, and well-written story have made it a favorite among fans for over 30 years. If you’re looking for a classic RPG experience, Secret of the Silver Blades is definitely worth checking out.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
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