Excaliba (1985)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Excaliba: A Timeless Tale of Knighthood and Adventure

Released in 1985 for the NEC PC-8801 and later ported to the MSX2, Excaliba is an isometric role-playing game (RPG) that captivated gamers with its innovative gameplay, charming visuals, and epic storyline. Developed by the legendary Japanese studio Nihon Falcom, Excaliba stands as a testament to the golden age of computer RPGs and continues to be enjoyed by retro gaming enthusiasts today.

A Quest for the Holy Sword

The story of Excaliba unfolds in the mythical kingdom of Brittania, where the evil sorcerer Mordred has stolen the legendary sword Excalibur from its resting place. As the valiant knight Artorius, players embark on a perilous quest to recover the sacred blade and restore peace to the realm.

Along the way, Artorius encounters a colorful cast of characters, including the wise Merlin, the beautiful Guinevere, and the treacherous Lancelot. Each character has their own unique story and motivations, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.

Isometric Gameplay and Tactical Combat

Excaliba is renowned for its innovative isometric gameplay, which provides a unique perspective on the game world. Players navigate Artorius through dungeons, forests, and castles, battling enemies in turn-based encounters.

Combat in Excaliba is both challenging and rewarding. Players must carefully consider their positioning, weapon choice, and spell selection to overcome their foes. The game features a wide variety of enemies, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.

Character Development and Customization

As Artorius progresses through the game, he gains experience points and levels up, allowing players to customize his stats and abilities. Players can choose to focus on strength, agility, intelligence, or a combination of all three.

In addition to leveling up, Artorius can also acquire new weapons, armor, and items. These items can significantly enhance his combat abilities and provide him with special abilities, such as the power to cast spells or heal himself.

A Timeless Classic

Excaliba was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a beloved classic among retro gaming enthusiasts today. The game’s charming visuals, engaging story, and challenging gameplay have stood the test of time.

While the graphics may seem simplistic by today’s standards, they possess a timeless quality that evokes the golden age of computer RPGs. The character designs are expressive and memorable, and the isometric perspective provides a unique and immersive experience.

Legacy and Influence

Excaliba has had a profound influence on the RPG genre. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, such as the isometric perspective and turn-based combat, have been adopted by countless other games. The game’s epic storyline and memorable characters have also inspired many subsequent RPGs.

Excaliba is considered one of the greatest RPGs of all time, and it continues to be enjoyed by gamers around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned RPG veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Excaliba is a must-play experience that will transport you to a world of adventure, magic, and heroism.

Tips for Playing Excaliba

  • Explore thoroughly. Excaliba’s world is filled with hidden secrets and treasures. Be sure to explore every nook and cranny to find the best weapons, armor, and items.
  • Level up your character wisely. Each level up gives you points to allocate to Artorius’s stats. Choose wisely, depending on your preferred playstyle.
  • Use magic strategically. Magic can be a powerful tool in combat, but it’s important to use it wisely. Spells can be expensive to cast, so make sure to save them for when they’re most needed.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment. Excaliba offers a lot of freedom in how you approach the game. Experiment with different weapons, armor, and strategies to find what works best for you.
  • Have fun! Excaliba is a classic RPG that’s meant to be enjoyed. So relax, immerse yourself in the game world, and let the adventure unfold.

Review Score

7/10

Art

Cover Art

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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