Summary
- Release Year: 1979
- Genres: Adventure
- Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Amstrad PCW, Apple II, Atari 8-bit, Atari ST/STE, Commodore 16, Commodore C64/128/MAX, Commodore Plus/4, DOS, Mac, PDP-11, Tatung Einstein, TRS-80, TRS-80 Color Computer
- Developers: Infocom
- Publishers: Infocom
Zork III: The Dungeon Master (1979)
Zork III: The Dungeon Master is a text adventure game developed by Infocom and released in 1979. It is the third game in the Zork series, and the first to be released for home computers.
The player takes on the role of an unnamed adventurer who has been imprisoned in a dungeon by the Dungeon Master. The player must explore the dungeon, solve puzzles, and defeat monsters in order to escape.
Zork III is a challenging and rewarding game. The puzzles are clever and the atmosphere is immersive. The game is also notable for its use of a natural language parser, which allows the player to type in commands in plain English.
Gameplay
Zork III is a text adventure game. The player types in commands to control their character and interact with the environment. The game world is described in detail, and the player can explore it at their own pace.
The game’s puzzles are varied and challenging. Some puzzles require the player to find hidden objects, while others require the player to solve logic puzzles. The game also features a number of combat encounters, which the player must win in order to progress.
Setting
Zork III is set in a dungeon that is deep beneath the surface of the earth. The dungeon is a vast and complex place, with many different rooms and corridors. The dungeon is also home to a variety of monsters, including goblins, trolls, and dragons.
Characters
The player character in Zork III is an unnamed adventurer. The player can choose the gender and race of their character, but otherwise the character is a blank slate.
The player will also encounter a number of non-player characters (NPCs) in the dungeon. These NPCs can provide the player with information, help, or quests.
Reception
Zork III was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its challenging puzzles, immersive atmosphere, and innovative use of a natural language parser. Zork III was also a financial success, selling over 100,000 copies.
Legacy
Zork III is considered to be one of the greatest text adventure games ever made. The game has been ported to a variety of platforms, and it is still enjoyed by gamers today. Zork III has also been influential on the development of other adventure games, such as the Myst series and the Monkey Island series.
Review
Zork III is a classic text adventure game that still holds up today. The game’s puzzles are clever and the atmosphere is immersive. The game is also notable for its use of a natural language parser, which allows the player to type in commands in plain English.
If you’re a fan of adventure games, then Zork III is a must-play. The game is challenging, rewarding, and atmospheric. You won’t be disappointed.
Score: 9/10
Tips for Playing Zork III
- Take your time. Zork III is a large and complex game. Don’t try to rush through it. Take your time to explore the dungeon and solve the puzzles.
- Talk to the NPCs. The NPCs in Zork III can provide you with valuable information and help. Be sure to talk to them whenever you can.
- Use the natural language parser. The natural language parser in Zork III allows you to type in commands in plain English. This can be a great help when you’re trying to figure out what to do next.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. Zork III is a game of trial and error. Don’t be afraid to try different things to see what happens.
- Have fun! Zork III is a great game. Relax and enjoy yourself.
Review Score
9/10