Developer: DreamForge Intertainment

Ravenloft: Stone Prophet (1995)

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

Summary

Ravenloft: Stone Prophet (1995)

Introduction

Ravenloft: Stone Prophet is a first-person role-playing game developed by Strategic Simulations, Inc. (SSI) and released in 1995. It is the sequel to Ravenloft: Strahd’s Possession, and the second game in the Ravenloft series based on the Dungeons & Dragons campaign setting of the same name.

Story

The story of Ravenloft: Stone Prophet begins when two adventurers, a fighter named Khalid and a cleric named Jaheira, step through a space-time portal that leads to Har’Akir, a scorched desert populated by vicious creatures and ruled by the cursed mummy of the ancient pharaoh Anhktepot. The only way to escape this wretched place is to find the Stone Prophet, a towering obelisk covered in mysterious hieroglyphs.

As the adventurers explore the desert, they encounter a variety of challenges, including deadly traps, fierce monsters, and the relentless pursuit of Anhktepot’s minions. They must also contend with the harsh desert environment, which requires them to carefully manage their water supplies.

Along the way, the adventurers can recruit up to four additional party members, each with their own unique abilities and backgrounds. These companions can provide valuable assistance in combat, spellcasting, and exploration.

Gameplay

Ravenloft: Stone Prophet uses the same graphical engine and gameplay system as its predecessor, Ravenloft: Strahd’s Possession. Character creation and combat follow the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons role-playing rules; exploration and combat are viewed from first-person perspective, and the battles occur in real time.

One of the unique features of Ravenloft: Stone Prophet is the necessity of regularly drinking water. The heroes must always carry enough water with them when they venture into the desert, or cast water-creating spells. If they fail to do so, they will quickly become dehydrated and suffer penalties to their attributes.

Reception

Ravenloft: Stone Prophet received mixed reviews upon release. Some critics praised the game’s challenging combat, immersive atmosphere, and innovative water management system. Others criticized the game’s repetitive gameplay, lack of character development, and technical issues.

Despite the mixed reviews, Ravenloft: Stone Prophet has become a cult classic among fans of the Ravenloft setting and CRPGs in general. The game’s unique blend of action, exploration, and role-playing has made it a favorite of many gamers over the years.

Legacy

Ravenloft: Stone Prophet is an important game in the history of CRPGs. It was one of the first games to successfully implement the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons ruleset in a real-time environment. The game’s innovative water management system was also a major breakthrough, and it has been used in many other games since then.

Ravenloft: Stone Prophet also helped to popularize the Ravenloft setting. The game’s dark and atmospheric world has captivated players for decades, and it has inspired numerous other games, novels, and other media.

Conclusion

Ravenloft: Stone Prophet is a challenging and rewarding CRPG that offers a unique blend of action, exploration, and role-playing. The game’s immersive atmosphere, innovative gameplay, and memorable characters have made it a cult classic among fans of the genre. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Ravenloft or a newcomer to CRPGs, Ravenloft: Stone Prophet is a game that you should definitely check out.

Tips for Playing Ravenloft: Stone Prophet

  • Manage your water supply carefully. The desert is a harsh environment, and you will need to make sure that you always have enough water to stay hydrated. Carry extra water with you when you venture into the desert, and be sure to cast water-creating spells if you can.
  • Recruit a diverse party. Each of the six party members in Ravenloft: Stone Prophet has their own unique abilities and backgrounds. Make sure to recruit a party that has a good mix of skills, including combat, spellcasting, and exploration.
  • Explore every nook and cranny. The desert is full of hidden secrets and treasures. Be sure to explore every nook and cranny to find everything that the game has to offer.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment. Ravenloft: Stone Prophet is a game that rewards experimentation. Try different strategies and tactics to see what works best for you.
  • Have fun! Ravenloft: Stone Prophet is a challenging game, but it’s also a lot of fun. So relax, enjoy the adventure, and don’t be afraid to die a few times along the way.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Anvil of Dawn (1995)

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

Summary

Anvil of Dawn: A Timeless Masterpiece of Action-RPG Excellence

Released in 1995 for MS-DOS, Anvil of Dawn is an action role-playing game (RPG) that captivated gamers with its immersive world, thrilling combat, and deep character development. Set in the fantastical realm of Tempest, the game follows the journey of a valiant hero tasked with saving humanity from a sinister fate.

A Realm of Enchanting Environs and Enthralling Encounters

Anvil of Dawn unfolds within the vibrant and expansive world of Tempest, a realm teeming with diverse landscapes, treacherous dungeons, and enigmatic characters. From the sun-drenched plains of the Overworld to the labyrinthine depths of the Underworld, each environment is meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of wonder and adventure.

As you traverse Tempest, you’ll encounter a myriad of creatures, both benevolent and malevolent. Engage in thrilling battles against grotesque monsters, cunning goblins, and formidable dragons. Forge alliances with wise sages, wandering merchants, and enigmatic strangers who may lend aid or hinder your progress.

A Tapestry of Spells and Skills: Unleash Your Arcane Might

Anvil of Dawn empowers you with an arsenal of over 25 spells and items, each imbued with the elemental forces of earth, wind, fire, and lightning. Cast devastating fireballs, summon earthen golems, manipulate the winds to your advantage, or harness the raw power of lightning.

Beyond spellcasting, you’ll master a variety of combat skills. Engage in real-time melee combat, wielding swords, axes, and other weapons with precision and finesse. Alternatively, adopt a more tactical approach, utilizing turn-based combat to carefully plan your attacks and outmaneuver your foes.

Choices and Consequences: Shape Your Destiny

Anvil of Dawn distinguishes itself with its emphasis on player choice and consequence. Throughout your journey, you’ll be presented with a multitude of decisions that shape the narrative and influence the world around you. Align yourself with different factions, forge alliances, or betray companions as you strive to fulfill your destiny.

Your actions carry weight, altering the course of events and ultimately determining the fate of Tempest. Every choice you make, every path you take, weaves a unique tapestry of experiences that adds depth and replayability to the game.

A Symphony of Sound and Visuals: A Feast for the Senses

Anvil of Dawn’s audiovisual presentation is a testament to the artistic vision of its creators. The game’s vibrant pixel art breathes life into the world of Tempest, capturing the essence of its diverse environments and captivating characters.

The soundtrack, composed by the legendary Tommy Tallarico, is a masterpiece in its own right. Orchestral melodies and dynamic sound effects immerse you in the game’s atmosphere, enhancing every moment of exploration, combat, and discovery.

A Legacy of Excellence: An Enduring Classic

Nearly three decades after its release, Anvil of Dawn remains a beloved classic among RPG enthusiasts. Its innovative blend of real-time and turn-based combat, coupled with its captivating story and immersive world, has cemented its place in gaming history.

The game has garnered critical acclaim, with reviewers praising its depth, challenge, and replayability. It has also inspired a dedicated fan base that continues to create mods, fan art, and other tributes to this timeless masterpiece.

Conclusion: A Timeless Treasure for RPG Aficionados

Anvil of Dawn is a testament to the enduring power of great game design. Its immersive world, thrilling combat, and compelling narrative have captivated gamers for generations. Whether you’re a seasoned RPG veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Anvil of Dawn is an essential experience that will transport you to a realm of enchantment and adventure.

Review Score

8.5/10

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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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Sanitarium (1998)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Sanitarium: A Descent into Madness

Sanitarium (1998) is a psychological horror point-and-click adventure game developed by DreamForge Intertainment and published by ASC Games. The game follows the story of Max, a man who wakes up in a near-deserted sanitarium after a car crash with no recollection of who he is or how he got there. As Max explores the sanitarium, he begins to experience strange and disturbing hallucinations, and it becomes increasingly difficult to distinguish between reality and madness.

Sanitarium is a masterclass in psychological horror, creating a deeply unsettling and atmospheric experience that will stay with you long after you finish playing. The game’s visuals are suitably eerie, with a muted color palette and distorted, dreamlike imagery. The sound design is equally effective, using ambient noises and unsettling sound effects to create a sense of unease and paranoia.

The gameplay in Sanitarium is fairly standard for point-and-click adventure games. Players control Max as he explores the sanitarium, interacting with objects and solving puzzles in order to progress the story. However, what sets Sanitarium apart from other games in the genre is its focus on psychological horror. The puzzles are often surreal and disorienting, and the player is constantly left guessing what is real and what is a hallucination.

The story of Sanitarium is complex and multi-layered, and it is up to the player to piece together the truth about Max’s past and the events that led him to the sanitarium. The game’s multiple endings add to its replayability, as players can choose to experience different aspects of the story depending on the choices they make.

Characters

  • Max: The protagonist of the game, Max is a man who wakes up in a sanitarium with no memory of his past. He must explore the sanitarium and piece together the truth about his identity and the events that led him there.
  • Dr. Morgan: The head of the sanitarium, Dr. Morgan is a mysterious and enigmatic figure. He claims to be helping Max, but his true intentions are unclear.
  • Nurse Sarah: A nurse at the sanitarium, Sarah is kind and compassionate, but she seems to be hiding something.
  • Mr. Smith: A patient at the sanitarium, Mr. Smith is a paranoid schizophrenic who believes that the world is out to get him.
  • Mrs. Jones: A patient at the sanitarium, Mrs. Jones is a catatonic woman who has been in the sanitarium for many years.

Themes

  • Identity: Max’s journey of self-discovery is at the heart of Sanitarium. As he explores the sanitarium and interacts with the other patients, he begins to question who he is and what his place in the world is.
  • Reality vs. Illusion: Sanitarium constantly blurs the line between reality and illusion. Max’s hallucinations are so vivid and realistic that it becomes difficult to tell what is real and what is not.
  • Mental Illness: The game explores the theme of mental illness in a sensitive and nuanced way. The patients at the sanitarium are all suffering from different forms of mental illness, and Max’s own descent into madness is a powerful and disturbing portrayal of the effects of mental illness.

Critical Reception

Sanitarium received critical acclaim upon its release, with reviewers praising its atmosphere, story, and puzzles. The game was nominated for several awards, including Adventure Game of the Year from the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences.

Legacy

Sanitarium is considered to be one of the greatest psychological horror games ever made. It has been praised for its innovative gameplay, its disturbing and atmospheric visuals, and its thought-provoking story. The game has inspired a number of other psychological horror games, and it remains a popular choice for fans of the genre.

Conclusion

Sanitarium is a must-play for fans of psychological horror games. It is a deeply unsettling and atmospheric experience that will stay with you long after you finish playing. The game’s complex story, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay make it a true classic of the genre.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Ravenloft: Strahd’s Possession (1994)

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

Summary

Ravenloft: Strahd’s Possession – A Journey into Darkness

Introduction

Released in 1994, Ravenloft: Strahd’s Possession is a party-based role-playing game that takes players on an epic quest through the perilous realm of Ravenloft. Developed by Strategic Simulations, Inc. and published by SSI, the game is based on the Dungeons & Dragons campaign setting of the same name.

Story

The game begins with Lord Dhelt of Elturel being attacked in his own castle. The mysterious assassin steals the Holy Symbol of Helm, a precious amulet with magical powers. Lord Dhelt tasks the player with retrieving the amulet.

Upon killing the assassin and retrieving the amulet, the player is suddenly teleported into an unknown area. The way back is blocked by poisonous mist, leaving the player no choice but to explore the hostile surroundings and solve the mystery of the amulet.

Gameplay

Ravenloft: Strahd’s Possession is played from a third-person perspective. The player controls a party of up to four characters, either using pre-determined characters or creating their own. Characters can be chosen from traditional AD&D races (human, elf, dwarf, etc.) and classes (fighter, cleric, etc.).

Combat in the game is done in real time. Players can move their characters freely around the battlefield, using either the arrow keys or the mouse. Characters can attack with melee weapons, ranged weapons, or spells.

The game features a 3D environment that allows players to move smoothly through the world. Players can explore towns, dungeons, and other locations, interacting with NPCs and solving puzzles.

Setting

Ravenloft: Strahd’s Possession takes place in the Ravenloft campaign setting, a dark and gothic world filled with vampires, werewolves, and other creatures of the night. The game’s story is set in the domain of Barovia, a land ruled by the vampire Strahd von Zarovich.

Characters

The player can choose from a variety of pre-determined characters or create their own. Each character has their own unique abilities and backstory.

Some of the pre-determined characters include:

  • Jander Sunstar: A human fighter who is seeking revenge against Strahd for killing his family.
  • Marina: A half-elf cleric who is on a quest to find a cure for her dying brother.
  • Alaric: A dwarf fighter who is searching for a lost treasure.
  • Strahd von Zarovich: The vampire lord of Barovia. He is the main antagonist of the game.

Reception

Ravenloft: Strahd’s Possession received positive reviews upon release. Critics praised the game’s graphics, gameplay, and story. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 200,000 copies.

Legacy

Ravenloft: Strahd’s Possession is considered to be one of the best Ravenloft games ever made. It is also credited with helping to popularize the Ravenloft campaign setting. The game has been ported to a variety of platforms, including the PC, Amiga, and Sega Saturn.

Conclusion

Ravenloft: Strahd’s Possession is a classic RPG that offers a unique and immersive experience. The game’s dark and gothic setting, compelling story, and challenging gameplay make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Dungeon Hack (1993)

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

Summary

Dungeon Hack: The Ultimate Roguelike

Released in 1993, Dungeon Hack is a classic roguelike that still holds up today. With its random dungeon generator, variety of items, and challenging enemies, it’s a game that will keep you coming back for more.

Gameplay

Dungeon Hack is a dungeon crawler in which you control a single character as they explore a randomly generated dungeon. The goal of the game is to reach the bottom of the dungeon and defeat the boss. Along the way, you’ll fight monsters, collect treasure, and solve puzzles.

The game is played in a turn-based format. On your turn, you can move your character, attack an enemy, or use an item. Enemies will then take their turns.

Dungeon Hack features a wide variety of items, including weapons, armor, potions, and scrolls. Each item has its own unique properties, and you’ll need to use them wisely to survive.

The game also features a variety of enemies, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. You’ll need to learn how to defeat each enemy type in order to progress through the dungeon.

Random Dungeon Generator

One of the things that makes Dungeon Hack so replayable is its random dungeon generator. Every time you start a new game, the dungeon will be completely different. This means that you’ll never play the same game twice.

The random dungeon generator is also very complex. It takes into account a number of factors when generating a dungeon, including the size of the dungeon, the number of rooms, the types of rooms, and the placement of enemies and treasure. This results in dungeons that are always challenging and interesting.

Variety of Items

Another thing that makes Dungeon Hack so great is its variety of items. There are over 100 different items in the game, each with its own unique properties. This gives you a lot of flexibility in how you approach the game.

For example, you can choose to focus on melee combat, ranged combat, or magic. You can also choose to specialize in a particular type of enemy, such as undead or demons.

Challenging Enemies

The enemies in Dungeon Hack are no pushovers. They’re smart, tough, and they’ll do everything they can to kill you. You’ll need to use all of your skills and resources to defeat them.

The game also features a number of boss enemies. These enemies are even tougher than the regular enemies, and they’ll require all of your skill and determination to defeat them.

Legacy

Dungeon Hack is a classic roguelike that has influenced many other games in the genre. Its random dungeon generator, variety of items, and challenging enemies have made it a favorite of roguelike fans for over 25 years.

If you’re a fan of roguelikes, then you owe it to yourself to check out Dungeon Hack. It’s a challenging, rewarding, and endlessly replayable game that will keep you coming back for more.

Tips for Playing Dungeon Hack

Here are a few tips to help you survive and succeed in Dungeon Hack:

  • Be careful when exploring. The dungeons are full of traps and monsters, so it’s important to be careful when exploring. Always check your surroundings before you move, and be prepared to fight if necessary.
  • Use your items wisely. Items are essential for survival in Dungeon Hack. Use them wisely to heal yourself, attack enemies, and solve puzzles.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many different ways to play Dungeon Hack. Experiment with different character builds and strategies to find what works best for you.
  • Have fun! Dungeon Hack is a challenging game, but it’s also a lot of fun. Don’t take it too seriously, and enjoy the experience.

Review Score

8/10

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War Wind (1996)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

War Wind combines strategic gameplay with a rich narrative, allowing players to lead one of four races to dominance on the alien world of Yavain. Its legacy as a strategy classic is undisputed.

Introduction

War Wind is a seminal RTS game that set the stage for many aspects of modern strategy gaming. Released in 1996, it offers a rich, immersive experience through the eyes of four distinct races.

Synopsis

Set in the ancient alien world of Yavain, War Wind details the struggles and conflicts among four races as they vie for power and survival amidst changing times.

Characters

Players can choose from four races: the Tha’Roon, an overlord race; the Obblinox, warriors and laborers; the Eaggra, a race of scholars and farmers; and the Shama’Li, spiritual leaders and healers.

Gameplay

The gameplay involves resource management, strategic combat, and campaign progression. Players must navigate through 28 scenarios, utilizing each race’s unique abilities to achieve victory.

Conclusion

War Wind remains a beloved classic within the RTS genre, offering a unique blend of strategy, storytelling, and gameplay depth that continues to engage players.

Review Score

8.5/10

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