Lords of Karma (1981)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Lords of Karma (1981): A Journey into the Unknown

Lords of Karma is a text-based adventure game developed by Infocom and released in 1981. It is one of the earliest examples of interactive fiction, and it remains one of the most challenging and rewarding games in the genre.

The game begins with the player character waking up in the central square of the mythical city of Golconda. The player has no memory of how they got there or why, but they soon learn that they are on a quest to find the Lords of Karma and fulfill their destiny.

The player explores Golconda by typing in commands, such as “go north” or “examine statue.” The game’s parser is very sophisticated, and it allows the player to interact with the world in a realistic way. For example, the player can pick up objects, talk to people, and even fight monsters.

The puzzles in Lords of Karma are notoriously difficult, but they are also very fair. The game provides the player with all of the information they need to solve the puzzles, but it is up to the player to put the pieces together.

In addition to its challenging puzzles, Lords of Karma is also known for its beautiful prose. The game’s descriptions of Golconda and its inhabitants are vivid and evocative, and they help to create a truly immersive experience.

Lords of Karma is a classic adventure game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. It is a challenging and rewarding game that will transport you to a world of mystery and adventure.

Characters

The player character in Lords of Karma is never given a name, but they are referred to as “the stranger” by the other characters in the game. The stranger is a skilled adventurer who is well-versed in the ways of the world.

The other characters in the game include:

  • The Lords of Karma: The Lords of Karma are a group of powerful beings who control the destiny of the world. The stranger must find the Lords of Karma and convince them to help him fulfill his destiny.
  • The Oracle: The Oracle is a wise old woman who can see the future. She can provide the stranger with valuable advice on his quest.
  • The Wizard: The Wizard is a powerful magic-user who can help the stranger overcome obstacles on his quest.
  • The Thief: The Thief is a skilled thief who can help the stranger steal valuable items.
  • The Warrior: The Warrior is a powerful fighter who can help the stranger defeat enemies.

Setting

Lords of Karma is set in the mythical city of Golconda. Golconda is a vast and complex city, with a rich history and culture. The city is home to people from all walks of life, from the wealthy elite to the impoverished poor.

Golconda is also a city of mystery and danger. The city is riddled with secret passages and hidden chambers, and it is home to many dangerous creatures. The stranger must be careful as he explores Golconda, or he may find himself in over his head.

Gameplay

Lords of Karma is a text-based adventure game. The player explores the world by typing in commands, such as “go north” or “examine statue.” The game’s parser is very sophisticated, and it allows the player to interact with the world in a realistic way.

The puzzles in Lords of Karma are notoriously difficult, but they are also very fair. The game provides the player with all of the information they need to solve the puzzles, but it is up to the player to put the pieces together.

In addition to its challenging puzzles, Lords of Karma is also known for its beautiful prose. The game’s descriptions of Golconda and its inhabitants are vivid and evocative, and they help to create a truly immersive experience.

Legacy

Lords of Karma is a classic adventure game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. It is a challenging and rewarding game that will transport you to a world of mystery and adventure. The game has been praised for its innovative gameplay, its beautiful prose, and its challenging puzzles.

Lords of Karma has been ported to many different platforms over the years, including the PC, the Apple II, and the Commodore 64. The game has also been translated into several different languages.

Lords of Karma has inspired many other adventure games, including the Zork series, the King’s Quest series, and the Myst series. The game is considered to be one of the most important and influential adventure games ever made.

Conclusion

Lords of Karma is a classic adventure game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. It is a challenging and rewarding game that will transport you to a world of mystery and adventure. If you are a fan of adventure games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Lords of Karma.

Review Score

8/10

Profile photo of Christopher

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.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More