Summary
- Release Year: 1994
- Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG), Strategy
- Platforms: DOS, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: DreamForge Intertainment
- Publishers: Softgold Computerspiele GmbH
Ravenloft: Strahd’s Possession – A Journey into Darkness
Introduction
Released in 1994, Ravenloft: Strahd’s Possession is a party-based role-playing game that takes players on an epic quest through the perilous realm of Ravenloft. Developed by Strategic Simulations, Inc. and published by SSI, the game is based on the Dungeons & Dragons campaign setting of the same name.
Story
The game begins with Lord Dhelt of Elturel being attacked in his own castle. The mysterious assassin steals the Holy Symbol of Helm, a precious amulet with magical powers. Lord Dhelt tasks the player with retrieving the amulet.
Upon killing the assassin and retrieving the amulet, the player is suddenly teleported into an unknown area. The way back is blocked by poisonous mist, leaving the player no choice but to explore the hostile surroundings and solve the mystery of the amulet.
Gameplay
Ravenloft: Strahd’s Possession is played from a third-person perspective. The player controls a party of up to four characters, either using pre-determined characters or creating their own. Characters can be chosen from traditional AD&D races (human, elf, dwarf, etc.) and classes (fighter, cleric, etc.).
Combat in the game is done in real time. Players can move their characters freely around the battlefield, using either the arrow keys or the mouse. Characters can attack with melee weapons, ranged weapons, or spells.
The game features a 3D environment that allows players to move smoothly through the world. Players can explore towns, dungeons, and other locations, interacting with NPCs and solving puzzles.
Setting
Ravenloft: Strahd’s Possession takes place in the Ravenloft campaign setting, a dark and gothic world filled with vampires, werewolves, and other creatures of the night. The game’s story is set in the domain of Barovia, a land ruled by the vampire Strahd von Zarovich.
Characters
The player can choose from a variety of pre-determined characters or create their own. Each character has their own unique abilities and backstory.
Some of the pre-determined characters include:
- Jander Sunstar: A human fighter who is seeking revenge against Strahd for killing his family.
- Marina: A half-elf cleric who is on a quest to find a cure for her dying brother.
- Alaric: A dwarf fighter who is searching for a lost treasure.
- Strahd von Zarovich: The vampire lord of Barovia. He is the main antagonist of the game.
Reception
Ravenloft: Strahd’s Possession received positive reviews upon release. Critics praised the game’s graphics, gameplay, and story. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 200,000 copies.
Legacy
Ravenloft: Strahd’s Possession is considered to be one of the best Ravenloft games ever made. It is also credited with helping to popularize the Ravenloft campaign setting. The game has been ported to a variety of platforms, including the PC, Amiga, and Sega Saturn.
Conclusion
Ravenloft: Strahd’s Possession is a classic RPG that offers a unique and immersive experience. The game’s dark and gothic setting, compelling story, and challenging gameplay make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
