Summary

Release Year: 1990
Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG)
Platforms: Amiga

Universe 3: A Sci-Fi Adventure Classic

Universe 3 is a sci-fi adventure game and RPG hybrid released in 1990 for the Amiga, Atari ST, and MS-DOS. It is the third game in the Universe series, and the first to be developed by Core Design. Universe 3 takes place 300 years after the events of Universe II, and ditches the space trading gameplay of the previous games in favor of a more story-heavy presentation.

The player takes control of Captain Edward “Ed” Travis, a space adventurer who is searching for his missing sister. Along the way, he becomes embroiled in a galactic conflict between the Terran Federation and the Kilrathi Empire.

Universe 3 is a classic example of a sci-fi adventure game. The game features a well-written story, interesting characters, and challenging puzzles. The game’s graphics are also impressive for the time, and the soundtrack is excellent.

One of the things that makes Universe 3 so unique is its blend of RPG and adventure game elements. The game features a character development system that allows players to improve their character’s skills and abilities. Players can also collect items and equipment to help them on their journey.

The game’s combat system is also unique. Players can engage in turn-based combat with enemies, using a variety of weapons and abilities. The combat system is challenging, but it is also fair.

Universe 3 was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its story, characters, puzzles, and graphics. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide.

Universe 3 is still considered one of the best sci-fi adventure games ever made. The game’s story, characters, and puzzles are still engaging today, and the game’s graphics and soundtrack are still impressive. If you are a fan of sci-fi adventure games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Universe 3.

Gameplay

Universe 3 is a sci-fi adventure game with RPG elements. The player takes control of Captain Edward “Ed” Travis, a space adventurer who is searching for his missing sister. Along the way, he becomes embroiled in a galactic conflict between the Terran Federation and the Kilrathi Empire.

The game is played from a top-down perspective. The player can move Ed around the game world, interact with objects, and talk to other characters. The game features a point-and-click interface.

The game’s combat system is turn-based. When Ed encounters an enemy, the game switches to a combat screen. The player can then select from a variety of actions, such as attacking, defending, or using special abilities.

The game also features a character development system. As Ed gains experience, he can level up and improve his skills and abilities. Players can also collect items and equipment to help Ed on his journey.

Story

The story of Universe 3 takes place 300 years after the events of Universe II. The Terran Federation has become the dominant power in the galaxy, and the Kilrathi Empire has been reduced to a rump state. However, the Kilrathi are still a threat, and they are planning to launch a new war against the Federation.

Ed Travis is a space adventurer who is searching for his missing sister. He believes that she was kidnapped by the Kilrathi, and he is determined to find her and bring her home.

Along the way, Ed becomes embroiled in the galactic conflict between the Terran Federation and the Kilrathi Empire. He must fight his way through hordes of Kilrathi warriors, and he must overcome many challenges in order to find his sister and save the galaxy.

Characters

Captain Edward “Ed” Travis: The protagonist of the game. Ed is a space adventurer who is searching for his missing sister. He is a skilled fighter and a resourceful adventurer.
Lieutenant Commander Sarah “Sally” Jones: The ship’s first officer. Sally is a skilled pilot and a loyal friend to Ed.
Doctor Patricia “Patty” Hayes: The ship’s doctor. Patty is a brilliant scientist and a caring friend to Ed.
Engineer Robert “Bob” Jenkins: The ship’s engineer. Bob is a skilled engineer and a loyal friend to Ed.
Gunner Thomas “Tommy” Lee: The ship’s gunner. Tommy is a skilled gunner and a loyal friend to Ed.

Setting

The game takes place in the year 2990. The Terran Federation is the dominant power in the galaxy, and the Kilrathi Empire has been reduced to a rump state. However, the Kilrathi are still a threat, and they are planning to launch a new war against the Federation.

The game is set on a variety of planets and space stations. The player will visit planets such as Earth, Mars, and Jupiter. The player will also visit space stations such as the Babylon 5 space station.

Graphics

The game’s graphics are impressive for the time. The game uses a variety of colors and textures to create a realistic and immersive environment. The character sprites are also well-animated.

Sound

The game’s soundtrack is excellent. The music is composed by Chris Hülsbeck, and it is one of the best soundtracks in video game history. The sound effects are also well done.

Reception

Universe 3 was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its story, characters, puzzles, and graphics. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide.