Summary
- Release Year: 1992
- Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG), Turn-based strategy (TBS)
- Platforms: Amiga, DOS
- Developers: Beyond Software, Stormfront Studios
- Publishers: Softgold Computerspiele GmbH, SSI (Strategic Simulations, Inc.), U.S. Gold, WizardWorks Software
Treasures of the Savage Frontier (1992): A Detailed Retrospective
Introduction
Treasures of the Savage Frontier is a groundbreaking role-playing game released in 1992 for the Commodore 64 and Amiga computers. Developed by Strategic Simulations, Inc. (SSI), the game is set in the Forgotten Realms campaign setting of Dungeons & Dragons and is based on the pen-and-paper module of the same name. Treasures of the Savage Frontier is notable for its innovative gameplay, which combines traditional dungeon crawling with strategic elements and a focus on exploration.
Gameplay
Players begin Treasures of the Savage Frontier by creating a party of up to six adventurers, each with their own unique abilities and skills. The party then sets out on a journey through the Savage Frontier, a vast and dangerous wilderness filled with monsters, traps, and ancient ruins.
The game is played from a top-down perspective, with the player controlling their party in real time. Combat is turn-based, and players must carefully manage their resources and abilities to succeed. In addition to combat, players must also solve puzzles, navigate treacherous terrain, and interact with non-player characters.
One of the most unique aspects of Treasures of the Savage Frontier is its emphasis on exploration. The game world is vast and open-ended, and players are free to explore it at their own pace. There are no set paths or quests, and players are encouraged to discover the secrets of the Savage Frontier for themselves.
Setting
Treasures of the Savage Frontier is set in the Forgotten Realms campaign setting of Dungeons & Dragons. The Savage Frontier is a vast and untamed wilderness located on the southern border of Faerûn. The region is home to a diverse array of creatures, from savage humanoids to ancient dragons.
The game’s story begins in the city of Ascore, which has recently been liberated from the evil forces of Zhentarim. However, the Zhentarim are still active in the Savage Frontier, and they are determined to regain control of the region. The player’s party must travel deep into the Savage Frontier to defeat the Zhentarim and uncover the secrets of the region.
Characters
The player’s party in Treasures of the Savage Frontier can consist of up to six characters, each with their own unique abilities and skills. The available character classes include:
- Fighter: A skilled warrior with a focus on melee combat.
- Cleric: A holy healer with the ability to cast divine spells.
- Mage: A powerful spellcaster with a wide range of arcane abilities.
- Thief: A nimble rogue with skills in stealth and lockpicking.
- Ranger: A skilled archer and tracker with a deep knowledge of the wilderness.
- Bard: A charismatic performer with the ability to inspire and demoralize enemies.
Reception
Treasures of the Savage Frontier was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, its detailed and immersive setting, and its challenging and rewarding combat. Treasures of the Savage Frontier is considered to be one of the greatest role-playing games of all time, and it continues to be enjoyed by gamers today.
Legacy
Treasures of the Savage Frontier has had a significant impact on the role-playing game genre. The game’s innovative gameplay and emphasis on exploration have influenced the design of many subsequent RPGs. Treasures of the Savage Frontier is also credited with helping to popularize the Forgotten Realms campaign setting, which has become one of the most popular settings for Dungeons & Dragons.
Conclusion
Treasures of the Savage Frontier is a classic role-playing game that offers a unique and unforgettable gaming experience. The game’s innovative gameplay, detailed setting, and challenging combat make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a veteran RPG player or a newcomer to the genre, Treasures of the Savage Frontier is sure to provide you with hours of enjoyment.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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