Summary
- Release Year: 1987
- Genres: Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: Apple II, DOS, Sharp X1
- Developers: Sir-tech Software
- Publishers: ASCII Corporation
Wizardry: The Return of Werdna – A Unique Twist on a Classic CRPG
Released in 1987, Wizardry: The Return of Werdna – The Fourth Scenario is the fourth installment in the groundbreaking Wizardry series of role-playing games (RPGs). Unlike its predecessors, The Return of Werdna takes a decidedly different approach, casting the player as the evil Archmage Werdna himself, the antagonist from the original game.
A Villain’s Redemption (or Revenge)
The game begins with Werdna awakening from an eternal slumber at the bottom of his ten-level labyrinth, stripped of his powers and tormented by nightmares. Driven by an insatiable thirst for revenge against the adventurers who stole his amulet and defeated him, Werdna embarks on a perilous journey to regain his strength and exact retribution.
A Labyrinth of Challenges
Werdna’s quest takes him through the treacherous depths of his own labyrinth, filled with deadly traps, formidable monsters, and cunning adventurers seeking to thwart his plans. Unlike other RPGs, The Return of Werdna features no experience points system. Instead, Werdna’s power grows as he discovers pentagrams hidden throughout the labyrinth. These pentagrams allow him to summon stronger monsters to his aid and restore his health and spellcasting abilities.
A Unique Party System
In a departure from the traditional party-based gameplay of previous Wizardry games, The Return of Werdna centers solely on Werdna himself. As he progresses through the labyrinth, he can summon a variety of monsters to accompany him, each with its own unique abilities. These monsters can be used to fight enemies, disarm traps, and solve puzzles.
Confronting the Past
One of the most intriguing aspects of The Return of Werdna is the presence of Trebor, the ghost of Werdna’s old enemy from the first game. Trebor relentlessly pursues Werdna throughout the labyrinth, adding an extra layer of tension and urgency to the player’s quest.
Multiple Endings
The game features three distinct endings: a good ending, an evil ending, and a special Grandmaster ending. The Grandmaster ending is notoriously difficult to achieve, requiring the player to complete a series of complex and challenging tasks.
Legacy and Impact
Wizardry: The Return of Werdna was a bold and innovative departure from the established conventions of the CRPG genre. Its unique gameplay mechanics, compelling story, and challenging difficulty made it a standout title in the Wizardry series and a beloved classic among fans of retro RPGs.
Retrospective Review
Graphics and Presentation:
The Return of Werdna retains the classic ASCII graphics and text-based interface of its predecessors. While this may seem simplistic by modern standards, it adds to the game’s charm and nostalgic appeal. The game’s atmospheric soundtrack further enhances the immersive experience.
Gameplay and Mechanics:
The game’s unique gameplay mechanics, with its focus on Werdna’s solo journey and the use of summoned monsters, sets it apart from other CRPGs. The lack of an experience points system creates a sense of tension and forces the player to carefully manage their resources.
Story and Characters:
The Return of Werdna features a compelling story that explores the themes of redemption and revenge. The cast of characters, including Werdna himself and the vengeful Trebor, are well-developed and memorable.
Challenge and Difficulty:
The game’s difficulty level is notoriously high, even by the standards of classic CRPGs. The lack of an experience points system and the abundance of traps and monsters create a constant sense of challenge that will test even the most seasoned players.
Overall:
Wizardry: The Return of Werdna is a unique and challenging CRPG that stands out from its contemporaries. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, compelling story, and challenging difficulty make it a must-play for fans of retro RPGs and anyone seeking a truly immersive and engaging gaming experience.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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