Summary
- Genres: Simulator
- Platforms: BBC Microcomputer System
Aviator: A Pioneering Role-Playing Game
Released in 1979 for the PLATO computer system, Aviator was a groundbreaking role-playing game that laid the foundation for many of the conventions of the genre. Developed by John Taylor and Donna Behen, Aviator featured innovative gameplay, a vast and immersive world, and a deep character creation system.
Gameplay
Aviator is a first-person, dungeon-crawling RPG. The player controls a party of up to six characters, each with their own unique abilities and skills. The party explores a series of dungeons, fighting monsters, solving puzzles, and completing quests.
Combat in Aviator is turn-based, and the player has a variety of options to choose from each turn. Characters can attack with melee weapons or ranged weapons, cast spells, or use special abilities. The game also features a unique “fatigue” system, which limits the number of actions a character can take each turn.
World
The world of Aviator is vast and immersive, with a variety of different environments to explore. The dungeons are filled with a variety of monsters, traps, and puzzles. The player must also navigate the treacherous wilderness, which is home to even more dangerous creatures.
Character Creation
Aviator features a deep and complex character creation system. Players can choose from a variety of races, classes, and alignments. Each race and class has its own unique abilities and skills. Players can also customize their characters’ appearance and personality.
Legacy
Aviator was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered to be one of the most important early role-playing games. The game’s innovative gameplay and immersive world set the standard for future RPGs. Aviator also had a significant impact on the development of the fantasy genre, and its influence can be seen in many popular fantasy novels, movies, and video games.
Review
Aviator is a classic role-playing game that is still enjoyed by many today. The game’s innovative gameplay, immersive world, and deep character creation system make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Score: 8/10
Pros:
- Innovative gameplay
- Immersive world
- Deep character creation system
- Challenging and rewarding gameplay
Cons:
- Graphics are dated by today’s standards
- Can be difficult to get into for new players
Overall, Aviator is a groundbreaking role-playing game that is still worth playing today. Its innovative gameplay, immersive world, and deep character creation system make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Additional Information
- Aviator was originally developed for the PLATO computer system, but it was later ported to a variety of other platforms, including the Apple II, Commodore 64, and IBM PC.
- Aviator was one of the first role-playing games to feature a first-person perspective.
- Aviator was also one of the first role-playing games to feature a deep and complex character creation system.
- Aviator has been praised for its innovative gameplay, immersive world, and deep character creation system.
- Aviator is considered to be one of the most important early role-playing games.
Review Score
8/10
