Summary
- Release Year: 1990
- Genres: Adventure, Arcade, Role-playing game (RPG), Strategy
- Platforms: Amiga, Atari ST/STE, DOS, Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Sega Mega Drive/Genesis
- Developers: Personal Software Services
- Publishers: Arena Entertainment, Mirrorsoft
Battlemaster: A Fantasy Arcade Adventure
Released in 1990, Battlemaster is a fantasy arcade adventure game that combines action, strategy, and role-playing elements. Set in a world of myth and feudal strife, the game tasks players with restoring order to a land torn apart by chaos and monsters.
Gameplay
Players begin by choosing one of four races to play as: Human, Orc, Dwarf, or Elf. Each race has its own strengths and weaknesses, which must be considered when assembling a party of companions.
The game is played from a top-down perspective, with players controlling a party of up to four characters. The party can move around the game world, exploring dungeons, fighting monsters, and completing quests.
Combat is action-oriented, with players using melee and projectile attacks to defeat their enemies. Players can also use a variety of items to enhance their characters’ abilities, such as weapons, armor, and potions.
In addition to combat, players must also manage their party’s resources, such as food, water, and morale. Players must also be careful to avoid traps and other hazards that can be found throughout the game world.
Setting
Battlemaster is set in a fantasy world that is divided into four kingdoms. Each kingdom is ruled by a different king, and each king has his own unique army and set of goals.
The world of Battlemaster is a dangerous place, filled with monsters, bandits, and other threats. Players must be careful when traveling through the game world, and they must always be prepared for a fight.
Story
The story of Battlemaster is simple but effective. The land is in chaos, and the player must restore order by conquering the four kingdoms and handing their crowns to the Watcher who inhabits the Tower.
The player’s journey is not an easy one. They will face many challenges along the way, but with courage and determination, they can succeed.
Graphics and Sound
For a 1990 arcade game, Battlemaster has impressive graphics and sound. The character sprites are well-animated, and the backgrounds are detailed and atmospheric. The game’s music is also excellent, and it helps to create a sense of adventure and excitement.
Reception
Battlemaster was a critical and commercial success upon its release. Critics praised the game’s graphics, sound, and gameplay. The game was also a hit with arcade-goers, and it quickly became one of the most popular arcade games of its time.
Battlemaster has remained popular in the years since its release. It has been ported to a number of different platforms, and it is still enjoyed by gamers today.
Legacy
Battlemaster is considered to be one of the classic arcade games of the 1990s. The game’s innovative gameplay and impressive graphics helped to set a new standard for arcade games. Battlemaster also had a significant influence on the development of the role-playing game genre.
Tips for Playing Battlemaster
Here are a few tips for playing Battlemaster:
- Choose your race carefully. Each race has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it is important to choose a race that is suited to your play style.
- Assemble a balanced party. A good party will include a mix of melee and ranged attackers, as well as a healer.
- Manage your resources carefully. Food, water, and morale are all essential for survival. Make sure to keep your party well-stocked with supplies.
- Be careful when exploring. The game world is filled with traps and other hazards. Always be on the lookout for danger.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many different ways to play Battlemaster. Experiment with different strategies and tactics to find what works best for you.
Conclusion
Battlemaster is a classic arcade game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s innovative gameplay, impressive graphics, and memorable soundtrack make it a must-play for fans of fantasy arcade adventures.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
