Publisher: SSI (Strategic Simulations, Inc.)

Rings of Zilfin (1986)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Rings of Zilfin: A Masterpiece of ZX Spectrum Adventure Gaming

Released in 1986, Rings of Zilfin is an open-world fantasy role-playing game for the ZX Spectrum. Developed and published by Melbourne House, it was one of the most ambitious and technically impressive games of its time, and is still regarded by many as one of the best adventure games ever made.

The game is set in the fictional world of Zilfin, a land of forests, mountains, and rivers. The player takes on the role of a young adventurer who must travel across Zilfin in search of the Rings of Zilfin, four magical artifacts that have been stolen by the evil sorcerer Mordath.

Rings of Zilfin is a vast and detailed world, with over 100 locations to explore. The game’s open-world design allows the player to travel anywhere they want, and to explore the world at their own pace. There are no set paths or quests, and the player is free to choose their own way through the game.

The game’s graphics are simple but effective, and the use of color is particularly impressive for a ZX Spectrum game. The game’s world is brought to life with a variety of sound effects and music, which help to create a truly immersive experience.

The gameplay in Rings of Zilfin is challenging but fair. The player must use their wits and skills to solve puzzles, defeat enemies, and navigate the treacherous world of Zilfin. The game’s combat system is simple but effective, and the player must carefully consider their strategy in order to defeat their enemies.

Rings of Zilfin was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and was praised for its open-world design, detailed graphics, and challenging gameplay. The game has been ported to a number of other platforms, including the Commodore 64, Amstrad CPC, and MSX.

Legacy

Rings of Zilfin is considered to be one of the most important and influential adventure games ever made. The game’s open-world design and non-linear gameplay were groundbreaking at the time, and have been imitated by many other games since. Rings of Zilfin is also notable for its detailed graphics and immersive sound, which helped to create a truly believable and engaging world for the player.

The game has been praised by critics and gamers alike for its depth, challenge, and replayability. Rings of Zilfin is a true classic of the ZX Spectrum era, and is still enjoyed by gamers today.

Gameplay

Rings of Zilfin is an open-world fantasy role-playing game. The player takes on the role of a young adventurer who must travel across Zilfin in search of the Rings of Zilfin, four magical artifacts that have been stolen by the evil sorcerer Mordath.

The game’s world is vast and detailed, with over 100 locations to explore. The player is free to travel anywhere they want, and to explore the world at their own pace. There are no set paths or quests, and the player is free to choose their own way through the game.

The game’s combat system is simple but effective. The player can attack enemies with a variety of weapons, including swords, bows and arrows, and magic spells. The player must carefully consider their strategy in order to defeat their enemies, as some enemies are more vulnerable to certain types of attacks.

Development

Rings of Zilfin was developed by a team of four programmers: David Jones, Philip Oliver, Malcolm Evans, and Chris Yates. The game was written in assembly language, and took over two years to develop.

The game’s world was inspired by the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, and the game’s story features many of the classic elements of fantasy, such as elves, dwarves, and dragons.

Reception

Rings of Zilfin was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its open-world design, detailed graphics, and challenging gameplay. The game has been ported to a number of other platforms, including the Commodore 64, Amstrad CPC, and MSX.

Rings of Zilfin is considered to be one of the most important and influential adventure games ever made. The game’s open-world design and non-linear gameplay were groundbreaking at the time, and have been imitated by many other games since. Rings of Zilfin is also notable for its detailed graphics and immersive sound, which helped to create a truly believable and engaging world for the player.

The game has been praised by critics and gamers alike for its depth, challenge, and replayability. Rings of Zilfin is a true classic of the ZX Spectrum era, and is still enjoyed by gamers today.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Warhammer 40,000 Epic: Final Liberation (1997)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Warhammer 40,000 Epic: Final Liberation: A Triumph of Strategy and Scale

In the annals of video game adaptations of tabletop wargames, few have achieved the level of success and critical acclaim as Warhammer 40,000 Epic: Final Liberation. Released in 1997 by SSI, the masterminds behind the legendary Five Star General Series, Final Liberation brought the vastness and depth of the Epic tabletop game to the PC, offering a groundbreaking strategy experience that remains unmatched to this day.

A Universe of Conflict

Warhammer 40,000 is a sprawling science fantasy universe steeped in grim darkness and perpetual warfare. In this universe, humanity stands on the brink of extinction, besieged by countless alien races, treacherous mutants, and the insidious forces of Chaos. Amidst this cosmic turmoil, the Epic game system focuses on the titanic clashes between massive armies, where towering war machines and legions of infantry clash in battles that shape the fate of worlds.

Faithful Adaptation, Unparalleled Scale

Final Liberation faithfully recreates the Epic tabletop experience, capturing its essence while introducing innovative gameplay elements that enhance the strategic depth. Players command vast armies of over 85 unique unit types, each with distinct capabilities and roles on the battlefield. From the towering Imperial Titans to the swarming hordes of Orks, every unit feels unique and powerful.

The game’s scale is truly awe-inspiring, allowing players to field hundreds of units on expansive battlefields. The sheer number of units and the vastness of the maps create a sense of epic grandeur that is unmatched in other strategy games. Players must carefully consider their army composition, positioning, and tactics to achieve victory.

Customizable Armies, Diverse Scenarios

One of the key strengths of Final Liberation is its army customization. Players can choose from a wide range of factions, including the Imperium of Man, the Orks, the Eldar, the Chaos Space Marines, and the Tyranids. Each faction has its own unique units, strengths, and weaknesses, allowing for a diverse range of army builds and playstyles.

The game features a variety of scenarios and battlefronts, from open field battles to urban warfare and planetary invasions. Each scenario presents unique challenges and requires players to adapt their strategies accordingly. The replayability value is immense, as players can experiment with different factions, army compositions, and tactics to overcome each challenge.

Strategic Depth and Tactical Nuance

Final Liberation is not just about amassing a large army and overwhelming your opponent with sheer numbers. The game demands strategic thinking and tactical finesse. Players must carefully manage their resources, position their units effectively, and anticipate their opponent’s moves.

The game’s combat system is both simple and elegant. Units have a range of weapons with different strengths and ranges, and combat is resolved through a dice-rolling mechanic. However, the game’s depth comes from the variety of unit types and their interactions. Different units have different strengths and weaknesses, and players must carefully consider their matchups and positioning to maximize their chances of success.

Stunning Graphics and Immersive Sound

For its time, Final Liberation boasted impressive graphics that brought the Warhammer 40,000 universe to life. The unit models are detailed and expressive, and the battlefields are rendered with a level of detail that enhances the sense of immersion.

The game’s sound design is equally impressive, with booming explosions, the roar of engines, and the clash of weapons creating a truly immersive auditory experience. The soundtrack is also suitably epic and complements the game’s atmosphere perfectly.

Legacy and Impact

Warhammer 40,000 Epic: Final Liberation remains a beloved classic among strategy gamers and Warhammer 40,000 fans alike. Its faithful adaptation of the tabletop game, unparalleled scale, customizable armies, and strategic depth have made it a timeless masterpiece.

The game’s impact on the strategy genre cannot be overstated. It set a new standard for large-scale battles and inspired a generation of game designers. Final Liberation’s legacy continues to inspire modern strategy games, and its influence can be seen in titles such as Total War: Warhammer and StarCraft II.

Conclusion

Warhammer 40,000 Epic: Final Liberation is a triumph of strategy and scale. Its faithful adaptation of the tabletop game, innovative gameplay elements, and stunning presentation make it an unforgettable experience for strategy gamers and Warhammer 40,000 enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Final Liberation is a game that will challenge your strategic skills and immerse you in the grim darkness of the far future.

Review Score

8/10

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Menzoberranzan (1994)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Menzoberranzan: A Descent into Darkness

In the Forgotten Realms campaign setting, deep beneath the surface of the world, lies the dark and dangerous city of Menzoberranzan, home to the drow elves. This subterranean metropolis is a place of intrigue, treachery, and unimaginable evil. It is also the setting for the 1994 role-playing game Menzoberranzan.

Gameplay

Menzoberranzan is a first-person role-playing game in which the player takes on the role of a drow elf adventurer. The game is set in the city of Menzoberranzan and its surrounding environs, and the player must navigate the treacherous streets, fight off dangerous monsters, and complete quests in order to progress.

The game features a party-based system, with the player able to recruit up to five companions to join them on their adventures. Each companion has their own unique abilities and skills, and the player must carefully consider their party composition in order to succeed.

Combat in Menzoberranzan is turn-based, and the player has a variety of options at their disposal, including melee attacks, ranged attacks, and spells. The game also features a unique “flanking” system, which allows the player to gain a combat advantage by attacking an enemy from multiple sides.

Setting

The city of Menzoberranzan is a vast and complex place, with a rich history and culture. The drow elves who live there are a proud and ancient race, but they are also deeply divided by their own internal conflicts. The city is ruled by a powerful matriarchy, and the various noble houses are constantly vying for power and influence.

In addition to the drow, Menzoberranzan is also home to a variety of other creatures, including duergar, kuo-toa, and mind flayers. These creatures are often hostile to the drow, and the player must be constantly on their guard against attack.

Story

The story of Menzoberranzan begins with the player character being exiled from the city. The player must then travel the dangerous Underdark in search of a new home. Along the way, they will encounter a variety of challenges, including deadly monsters, treacherous traps, and cunning enemies.

As the player progresses, they will learn more about the history of Menzoberranzan and the complex relationships between its inhabitants. They will also discover the secrets of the Underdark, and the ancient evils that lurk beneath the surface of the world.

Reception

Menzoberranzan was released to critical acclaim, with reviewers praising its dark and immersive setting, its challenging combat, and its well-written story. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 200,000 copies worldwide.

Legacy

Menzoberranzan is considered to be one of the classic role-playing games of the 1990s. It is still played by fans today, and it has been cited as an influence on a number of other games, including Neverwinter Nights and Dragon Age: Origins.

Tips for Playing Menzoberranzan

  • Choose your party composition carefully. Each companion has their own unique abilities and skills, so it is important to have a well-rounded party that can handle a variety of challenges.
  • Use the flanking system to your advantage. Attacking an enemy from multiple sides gives you a significant combat advantage.
  • Be prepared for anything. The Underdark is a dangerous place, and you never know what you might encounter.
  • Don’t be afraid to explore. There are many secrets hidden in the Underdark, and you never know what you might find.
  • Have fun! Menzoberranzan is a challenging but rewarding game. Take your time and enjoy the experience.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Pools of Darkness (1992)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Pools of Darkness: A Classic RPG That Will Take You on an Epic Journey

Released in 1992, Pools of Darkness is a classic RPG that will take you on an epic journey through the Forgotten Realms. Developed by Strategic Simulations, Inc. (SSI), Pools of Darkness is the sequel to Curse of the Azure Bonds, and the second game in the Forgotten Realms: The Pool of Radiance series.

You and your party of adventurers will explore dungeons, fight monsters, and solve puzzles as you try to save the world from the forces of evil. Along the way, you’ll visit iconic Forgotten Realms locations like the city of Phlan and the Tower of Ashaba.

Pools of Darkness is a challenging but rewarding game that will appeal to fans of classic RPGs. The game’s turn-based combat system is simple to learn but difficult to master, and the game’s puzzles are clever and challenging.

Characters

You can create a party of up to six characters, each with their own unique abilities and skills. There are four races to choose from: human, elf, dwarf, and halfling. There are also four classes to choose from: fighter, thief, cleric, and mage.

Combat

Combat in Pools of Darkness is turn-based. Each character has a certain number of action points per turn, which they can use to move, attack, or cast spells. The game’s combat system is simple to learn but difficult to master. You’ll need to carefully consider your positioning and your choice of attacks in order to succeed in combat.

Puzzles

In addition to combat, Pools of Darkness also features a number of puzzles. These puzzles are often challenging, but they’re also fair. You’ll need to use your wits and your knowledge of the game world in order to solve them.

Setting

Pools of Darkness is set in the Forgotten Realms campaign setting. The Forgotten Realms is a rich and detailed world with a long history. The game takes place in the city of Phlan, which is located on the Sword Coast. Phlan is a thriving city that is home to a diverse population of humans, elves, dwarves, and halflings.

Story

The story of Pools of Darkness begins with your party of adventurers arriving in Phlan. The city is in the midst of a celebration, but the festivities are soon interrupted by a group of evil cultists. The cultists are led by a powerful wizard named Tyranthraxus, who is planning to use the Pool of Radiance to plunge the world into darkness.

Your party of adventurers must stop Tyranthraxus and his cultists before they can succeed in their evil plan. To do this, you’ll need to travel to the Tower of Ashaba and defeat Tyranthraxus in a final showdown.

Legacy

Pools of Darkness was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its challenging gameplay, its clever puzzles, and its rich and detailed setting. Pools of Darkness is considered to be one of the best RPGs of its era, and it remains popular with fans of classic RPGs today.

Tips for Playing Pools of Darkness

  • Create a balanced party. Make sure your party has a good mix of fighters, thieves, clerics, and mages.
  • Explore the game world thoroughly. There are many hidden secrets and treasures to be found in Pools of Darkness.
  • Be prepared for a challenge. Pools of Darkness is a challenging game, but it’s also very rewarding.
  • Don’t give up! If you get stuck, don’t give up. There are many resources available to help you, including online walkthroughs and forums.

Conclusion

Pools of Darkness is a classic RPG that will take you on an epic journey through the Forgotten Realms. The game’s challenging gameplay, clever puzzles, and rich and detailed setting make it a must-play for fans of classic RPGs.

Review Score

8/10

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Phantasie II (1986)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 4 minutes read

Summary

Phantasie II: A Classic CRPG with Improved Quests and Combat

Released in 1986 by SSI, Phantasie II is a classic computer role-playing game (CRPG) that offers a challenging and rewarding experience. As the sequel to the popular Phantasie, Phantasie II retains the same basic gameplay and graphics as its predecessor, but with several notable improvements, including more complex quests and a more refined combat system.

Story

The story of Phantasie II takes place on the beautiful island of Ferronrah, which has been cursed by the evil Dark Lord Nikademus. Nikademus has fashioned an evil orb, which he uses to enslave the people of Ferronrah. The player’s mission is to find and destroy the orb, and to defeat Nikademus.

Gameplay

Phantasie II is a turn-based CRPG in which the player controls a party of up to six characters. The game world is explored from a first-person perspective, and combat takes place on a separate screen.

The game’s character creation system is fairly robust, allowing players to choose from a variety of races, classes, and alignments. Each race and class has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, so players must carefully consider their party composition before setting out on their adventure.

Combat in Phantasie II is turn-based, and players have a variety of options to choose from each turn, including attacking, casting spells, or using items. The combat system is fairly simple, but it is still challenging, especially against the game’s more difficult enemies.

Quests

One of the most notable improvements in Phantasie II over its predecessor is the complexity of its quests. The game features a variety of quests, ranging from simple fetch quests to complex puzzles. Many of the quests are interconnected, and players must often complete multiple quests in order to progress.

The quests in Phantasie II are well-written and engaging, and they do a good job of keeping the player motivated. The game’s world is also very large and open-ended, giving players the freedom to explore and complete quests at their own pace.

Graphics and Sound

Phantasie II uses the same graphics and sound as its predecessor, which are fairly primitive by today’s standards. The game’s graphics are tile-based, and the character sprites are small and simple. The sound effects are also very basic.

Despite its primitive graphics and sound, Phantasie II has a certain charm that is still appealing today. The game’s simple visuals allow players to use their imaginations to fill in the details, and the game’s soundtrack is surprisingly catchy.

Overall

Phantasie II is a classic CRPG that offers a challenging and rewarding experience. The game’s improved quests and combat system make it a worthwhile sequel to its predecessor, and its open-ended world and engaging story will keep players entertained for hours on end.

Review Score

7.5 out of 10

Pros

  • Complex and engaging quests
  • Refined combat system
  • Open-ended world
  • Charming graphics and sound

Cons

  • Primitive graphics and sound
  • Some tedious gameplay elements
  • Lack of innovation

Review Score

7.5/10

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Shadow Sorcerer (1991)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 7 minutes read

Summary

Shadow Sorcerer: A Unique RPG That Blends Strategy, Tactics, and Politics

Released in 1991, Shadow Sorcerer is a unique role-playing game that combines strategy, tactics, and political elements. It is based on the Dragonlance series of novels, and players take control of a party of four adventurers who must escort a group of 800 refugees to safety while being pursued by an evil dragon army.

The game is played in three different modes:

  • Strategic mode: In this mode, the player must move the refugees safely through the wilderness. The player must manage the refugees’ food and water supplies, as well as their morale. The player must also make decisions about which route to take, and which obstacles to avoid.
  • Tactical mode: In this mode, the party explores dungeons and other areas of interest, searching for information and treasure to assist the escape. The player must control the party members in real-time combat, and must use their unique abilities to defeat the enemy.
  • Political mode: In this mode, the players must deal with the refugee leaders and convince them to continue following the party. The player must use diplomacy and persuasion to keep the refugees motivated and to prevent them from turning against the party.

All three modes take place in real-time, with the evil dragons constantly on the adventurers’ heels, slowly picking off the escapees. This creates a sense of urgency and tension that keeps the player engaged throughout the game.

Shadow Sorcerer is a challenging but rewarding game that will appeal to fans of the Dragonlance series and RPGs in general. The game’s unique blend of strategy, tactics, and politics makes it a truly unique experience.

Gameplay

The gameplay in Shadow Sorcerer is divided into three distinct phases:

  • Strategic Phase: The strategic phase is played on a large-scale map of the world. The player must move the refugees across the map, avoiding enemy patrols and obstacles. The player must also manage the refugees’ food and water supplies, as well as their morale.
  • Tactical Phase: The tactical phase is played when the party enters a dungeon or other area of interest. The player controls the party members in real-time combat, and must use their unique abilities to defeat the enemy.
  • Political Phase: The political phase is played when the party interacts with the refugee leaders. The player must use diplomacy and persuasion to keep the refugees motivated and to prevent them from turning against the party.

The three phases of gameplay are interconnected. For example, the player’s actions in the strategic phase can affect the difficulty of the tactical phase. Similarly, the player’s actions in the tactical phase can affect the outcome of the political phase.

Characters

The player controls a party of four adventurers in Shadow Sorcerer:

  • Tanis Half-Elven: A skilled ranger and tracker.
  • Raistlin Majere: A powerful wizard with a dark secret.
  • Caramon Majere: A strong and loyal warrior.
  • Sturm Brightblade: A brave and honorable knight.

Each character has their own unique abilities that can be used to help the party survive. For example, Tanis can use his tracking skills to find hidden paths, while Raistlin can use his magic to defeat powerful enemies.

Setting

Shadow Sorcerer is set in the world of Krynn, the same world as the Dragonlance novels. The game takes place during the War of the Lance, a time of great conflict between the forces of good and evil.

The player’s party must escort a group of 800 refugees to safety. The refugees are fleeing from the evil dragon army, which is led by the Dragon Queen Takhisis.

Reception

Shadow Sorcerer received positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its unique blend of strategy, tactics, and politics. The game was also praised for its challenging gameplay and its faithful adaptation of the Dragonlance novels.

Shadow Sorcerer was a commercial success, selling over 200,000 copies worldwide. The game was ported to several different platforms, including the PC, Amiga, and Super Nintendo.

Legacy

Shadow Sorcerer is considered to be one of the best RPGs of its era. The game’s unique blend of strategy, tactics, and politics has influenced many subsequent RPGs.

Shadow Sorcerer is still enjoyed by many gamers today. The game is available on GOG.com and other digital distribution platforms.

Conclusion

Shadow Sorcerer is a unique and challenging RPG that will appeal to fans of the Dragonlance series and RPGs in general. The game’s blend of strategy, tactics, and politics makes it a truly unique experience.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Demon’s Winter (1988)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Demon’s Winter (1988): A Classic SSI RPG That Still Delivers

Demon’s Winter is a classic SSI RPG that was released in 1988. It is the sequel to SSI’s 1987 game Shard of Spring, and it is set two hundred years after the events of the original game. Demon’s Winter features a game world that is 32 times the size of the world in Shard of Spring, and it offers a deep and engaging role-playing experience.

The story of Demon’s Winter begins with the player creating a party of adventurers. The player can choose from a variety of races and classes, and each character can be customized with their own unique skills and abilities. Once the player has created their party, they are thrust into a world that is on the brink of chaos.

The world of Demon’s Winter is a dark and dangerous place. It is a world where demons roam the land, and where the forces of evil are constantly seeking to destroy the forces of good. The player’s party must travel through this dangerous world, fighting demons and other evil creatures, in order to restore balance to the world.

The gameplay in Demon’s Winter is typical of SSI RPGs from the late 1980s. The player’s party travels through the game world, exploring dungeons, fighting monsters, and completing quests. The game’s combat system is turn-based, and it allows the player to control each member of their party individually.

One of the things that sets Demon’s Winter apart from other SSI RPGs is its size. The game world is absolutely huge, and it is filled with a variety of different locations to explore. The player can travel through forests, mountains, deserts, and dungeons, and they can encounter a wide variety of different creatures and characters.

The size of the game world can be a bit daunting at first, but it also gives the player a great sense of freedom. The player is free to explore the world at their own pace, and they can choose to do whatever they want. They can follow the main storyline, or they can explore the world and complete side quests.

Another thing that sets Demon’s Winter apart from other SSI RPGs is its difficulty. The game is challenging, and it requires the player to think strategically in order to succeed. The player’s party will often be outnumbered and outmatched by their enemies, and they will need to use all of their skills and abilities in order to survive.

The difficulty of Demon’s Winter can be frustrating at times, but it also makes the game more rewarding. When the player finally defeats a difficult enemy, it is a great feeling of accomplishment.

Overall, Demon’s Winter is a classic SSI RPG that still delivers a great gaming experience. The game’s huge world, challenging gameplay, and deep story make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Tips for Playing Demon’s Winter

Here are a few tips for playing Demon’s Winter:

  • Create a well-rounded party. Make sure your party has a good mix of melee fighters, ranged attackers, and spellcasters.
  • Explore the world thoroughly. There are many hidden areas in Demon’s Winter, so be sure to explore every nook and cranny.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many different ways to play Demon’s Winter, so experiment with different strategies until you find one that works for you.
  • Be patient. Demon’s Winter is a challenging game, so don’t get discouraged if you die a few times. Just keep trying, and you will eventually succeed.

Legacy of Demon’s Winter

Demon’s Winter was a critical and commercial success, and it is still considered to be one of the best SSI RPGs ever made. The game’s huge world, challenging gameplay, and deep story have inspired many other RPGs, and it continues to be enjoyed by gamers today.

In 2018, a group of fans released a free remake of Demon’s Winter called Demon’s Winter: Revenant. The remake features updated graphics and sound, but it retains the same classic gameplay that made the original game so popular.

Demon’s Winter: Revenant is a great way to experience this classic RPG for the first time, or to revisit it if you have played it before. The remake is available for free on PC, Mac, and Linux.

Conclusion

Demon’s Winter is a classic SSI RPG that still delivers a great gaming experience. The game’s huge world, challenging gameplay, and deep story make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you are looking for a classic RPG to play, then I highly recommend Demon’s Winter.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Champions of Krynn (1990)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Champions of Krynn: A Classic CRPG That Still Holds Up Today

Released in 1990, Champions of Krynn is a classic CRPG that still holds up today. Developed by Strategic Simulations, Inc. and published by TSR, Inc., the game is based on the Dragonlance campaign setting for the Dungeons & Dragons tabletop role-playing game.

Champions of Krynn follows the story of a group of adventurers who are tasked with investigating a plot by the evil Dragonarmies to lure the good armies into a trap and wipe them out. The game features a branching storyline with multiple endings, and players can choose from a variety of character classes and races to create their own party of adventurers.

One of the things that makes Champions of Krynn so special is its engaging story. The game’s plot is well-written and full of twists and turns, and the characters are well-developed and relatable. Players will find themselves invested in the story and eager to see what happens next.

Another strength of Champions of Krynn is its challenging gameplay. The game’s combat system is turn-based and requires players to carefully consider their every move. Players will need to use all of their skills and abilities to defeat their enemies and progress through the game.

In addition to its engaging story and challenging gameplay, Champions of Krynn also features a number of innovative features for its time. The game was one of the first CRPGs to feature a branching storyline with multiple endings, and it also allowed players to create their own custom party of adventurers. These features helped to make Champions of Krynn a truly groundbreaking game, and they continue to set it apart from other CRPGs today.

Graphics and Sound

For a game released in 1990, Champions of Krynn has impressive graphics and sound. The game’s world is rendered in beautiful detail, and the character sprites are well-animated. The game’s music is also excellent, and it helps to create a truly immersive experience.

Overall

Champions of Krynn is a classic CRPG that still holds up today. With its engaging story, memorable characters, and challenging gameplay, it’s a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a great CRPG to play, I highly recommend checking out Champions of Krynn.

Here are some tips for playing Champions of Krynn:

  • Create a balanced party of adventurers. You’ll need a mix of melee and ranged attackers, as well as spellcasters and healers.
  • Explore the world thoroughly. There are many hidden secrets and treasures to be found.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strategies. There is no one right way to play Champions of Krynn.
  • Save often. The game can be challenging, so it’s important to save your progress regularly.

If you’re a fan of Champions of Krynn, you might also enjoy these games:

  • Baldur’s Gate
  • Icewind Dale
  • Planescape: Torment
  • Neverwinter Nights

I hope you enjoy playing Champions of Krynn!

Review Score

7.5/10

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Gateway to the Savage Frontier (1991)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Gateway to the Savage Frontier: A Journey into Epic Fantasy

Released in 1991, Gateway to the Savage Frontier is a classic role-playing game that takes players on an epic journey through a vast and dangerous world. Developed by SSI and published by TSR, Inc., the game is set in the Forgotten Realms campaign setting and features a rich story, challenging combat, and a cast of memorable characters.

Story

The story of Gateway to the Savage Frontier begins in the trading town of Yartar, where the player’s party is celebrating their successful completion of a dangerous caravan mission. However, their triumph is short-lived, as they soon learn that great armies are on the move and the relative peace of recent times is about to be shattered.

The party quickly becomes a target of the evil forces behind the current troubles, and they must use all their skills and resources to stay alive and save the region from certain destruction. Their journey takes them through a variety of challenging environments, from dense forests and treacherous mountains to dark dungeons and sprawling deserts. Along the way, they will encounter a host of deadly creatures, including orcs, goblins, trolls, and dragons.

Gameplay

Gateway to the Savage Frontier is a turn-based RPG that features a variety of character classes, each with their own unique abilities and skills. Players can create a party of up to six characters, and each character can be customized with a variety of weapons, armor, and spells.

The game’s combat system is challenging and rewarding, and players must carefully consider their tactics in order to succeed. In addition to combat, the game also features a variety of puzzles and riddles that must be solved in order to progress.

Characters

Gateway to the Savage Frontier features a cast of memorable characters, each with their own unique personality and motivations. The player’s party consists of six characters:

  • Aasla: A human fighter who is the leader of the party. She is a skilled warrior and a natural leader.
  • Belk: A dwarven fighter who is the party’s tank. He is a powerful warrior and a loyal friend.
  • Caliana: A human cleric who is the party’s healer. She is a devout follower of Pelor, the god of the sun.
  • Jareth: A half-elven thief who is the party’s scout. He is a skilled archer and a cunning rogue.
  • Khelgar: A dragonborn fighter who is the party’s berserker. He is a powerful warrior who is always eager for a fight.
  • Linu: A gnome wizard who is the party’s spellcaster. She is a skilled mage and a wise advisor.

Setting

Gateway to the Savage Frontier is set in the Forgotten Realms campaign setting, which is a vast and diverse world filled with a variety of cultures, creatures, and landscapes. The game’s world is divided into a number of different regions, each with its own unique flavor.

The Savage Frontier is a region of the Forgotten Realms that is known for its untamed wilderness and its dangerous inhabitants. The region is home to a variety of orc tribes, goblin clans, and other monstrous creatures. It is also a region of great natural beauty, with towering mountains, lush forests, and sparkling rivers.

Legacy

Gateway to the Savage Frontier is considered to be one of the classic RPGs of the early 1990s. The game was praised for its rich story, challenging combat, and memorable characters. It was also one of the first RPGs to feature a fully customizable party of characters.

Gateway to the Savage Frontier has had a lasting impact on the RPG genre. The game’s influence can be seen in a number of later RPGs, including Baldur’s Gate, Icewind Dale, and Neverwinter Nights.

Conclusion

Gateway to the Savage Frontier is a classic RPG that offers a challenging and rewarding experience for players of all levels. The game’s rich story, memorable characters, and challenging combat make it a must-play for any fan of the genre.

Review Score

8/10

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Curse of the Azure Bonds (1989)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 7 minutes read

Summary

Curse of the Azure Bonds: A Forgotten Realms Classic

Released in 1989, Curse of the Azure Bonds is a classic dungeon crawl adventure game based on the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons ruleset. Developed by Strategic Simulations, Inc. and published by SSI, the game is set in the Forgotten Realms campaign setting and follows a group of adventurers who have been cursed with magical bonds that threaten to control their actions.

The game begins in the frontier town of Tilverton, where the player characters are ambushed and captured by a group of orcs. The orcs brand the characters with five magical bonds, each of which represents a different element (earth, air, fire, water, and spirit). These bonds have dangerous magical powers that can take control of the characters’ actions, forcing them to attack their allies or even commit suicide.

The characters’ quest in Curse of the Azure Bonds is to search the Realms for the source of the bonds and rid themselves of the bonds’ terrible curse. This journey will take them across the Dalelands, through the Underdark, and into the heart of the Shadowfell. Along the way, they will encounter a variety of challenges, including deadly traps, powerful monsters, and cunning villains.

One of the things that makes Curse of the Azure Bonds so memorable is its strong cast of characters. The player characters are all well-developed and have their own unique motivations and backstories. The non-player characters are also well-written and add depth to the game world.

Another highlight of the game is its combat system. Curse of the Azure Bonds uses a turn-based combat system that is both challenging and rewarding. Players must carefully consider their actions and use their characters’ abilities strategically in order to succeed.

The game’s graphics are also impressive for the time. Curse of the Azure Bonds uses a 3D engine to create a detailed and immersive world. The character models are well-animated and the environments are lush and varied.

Overall, Curse of the Azure Bonds is a classic adventure game that still holds up today. With its engaging story, challenging combat, and memorable characters, it’s a must-play for any fan of DnD or RPGs in general.

Gameplay

Curse of the Azure Bonds is a dungeon crawl adventure game played from a first-person perspective. The player controls a party of up to six characters, each of whom has their own unique abilities and skills. The party travels through a variety of environments, fighting monsters, solving puzzles, and completing quests.

The game’s combat system is turn-based, with each character taking their turn to move, attack, or cast spells. Characters can attack with a variety of weapons, including swords, axes, bows, and crossbows. They can also cast spells from a variety of schools of magic, including evocation, alteration, and necromancy.

Curse of the Azure Bonds also features a number of puzzles that must be solved in order to progress through the game. These puzzles can be challenging, but they are also fair and logical.

Setting

Curse of the Azure Bonds is set in the Forgotten Realms campaign setting, which is one of the most popular and well-developed campaign settings for Dungeons & Dragons. The game takes place in the Dalelands, a region of the Forgotten Realms that is known for its rolling hills, dense forests, and ancient ruins.

The Dalelands are home to a variety of human and non-human races, including dwarves, elves, and halflings. The region is also home to a number of powerful monsters, including orcs, goblins, and dragons.

Characters

The player characters in Curse of the Azure Bonds are all experienced adventurers who have been ambushed and captured by a group of orcs. The orcs brand the characters with five magical bonds, each of which represents a different element (earth, air, fire, water, and spirit). These bonds have dangerous magical powers that can take control of the characters’ actions, forcing them to attack their allies or even commit suicide.

The player characters must work together to find the source of the bonds and rid themselves of the bonds’ terrible curse. Along the way, they will encounter a variety of challenges, including deadly traps, powerful monsters, and cunning villains.

Reception

Curse of the Azure Bonds was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its strong story, challenging combat, and memorable characters. It was also praised for its innovative use of the Forgotten Realms campaign setting.

Curse of the Azure Bonds has been consistently ranked as one of the best Dungeons & Dragons video games ever made. It was inducted into the Academy of Adventure Gaming Arts & Design’s Hall of Fame in 2004.

Legacy

Curse of the Azure Bonds has had a significant impact on the Dungeons & Dragons video game franchise. The game’s success helped to establish SSI as a leading developer of Dungeons & Dragons video games. It also helped to popularize the Forgotten Realms campaign setting, which has been used in numerous Dungeons & Dragons video games and novels.

Curse of the Azure Bonds is still played and enjoyed by fans today. The game is available for purchase on GOG.com and Steam.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

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