Summary
- Release Year: 1992
- Genres: Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: Amiga, Atari ST/STE, DOS
- Developers: Silmarils
- Publishers: Silmarils
Ishar: Legend of the Fortress (1992)
Released in 1992 for Amiga, Atari ST, and DOS, Ishar: Legend of the Fortress is a groundbreaking computer role-playing game (CRPG) that introduced a number of innovative features to the genre. Set on the island of Kendoria, the game follows the story of Aramir, a warrior who must defeat the evil sorcerer Krogh and his minions.
Gameplay
Ishar is played from a top-down perspective, and the player controls a party of up to five characters. The game world is vast and open-ended, and players are free to explore it at their own pace. Combat is turn-based, and players must carefully manage their resources in order to succeed.
One of the most unique features of Ishar is its character interaction system. Each character in the party has their own likes and dislikes, and these preferences can affect the party’s dynamics. For example, a character who is disliked by the rest of the party may be more likely to be dismissed or even murdered.
This system adds a layer of complexity to the game, and it forces players to think carefully about the composition of their party. It also makes the game more replayable, as players can experiment with different party combinations to see how they affect the story.
Setting
Ishar is set on the island of Kendoria, a land of towering mountains, dense forests, and sparkling rivers. The island is home to a variety of creatures, from humans and elves to dwarves and goblins.
The game’s story begins in the kingdom of Jarel, which is under attack by the evil sorcerer Krogh. Krogh has killed the king and kidnapped the princess, and it is up to Aramir and his companions to stop him.
Characters
The player controls a party of up to five characters in Ishar. Each character has their own unique abilities and skills, and players must carefully choose their party composition to succeed.
The main character of the game is Aramir, a brave warrior who is determined to defeat Krogh and save the kingdom. Aramir is joined by a cast of colorful companions, including a wise old wizard, a skilled archer, and a cunning thief.
Legacy
Ishar: Legend of the Fortress was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered to be one of the best CRPGs of all time. The game’s innovative features, such as its character interaction system and its open-ended world, have influenced many subsequent CRPGs.
Ishar has also been praised for its story, which is both epic and personal. The game’s characters are well-developed and relatable, and players can easily become invested in their quest to defeat Krogh.
Conclusion
Ishar: Legend of the Fortress is a classic CRPG that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s innovative features, its engaging story, and its memorable characters make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Tips for Playing Ishar: Legend of the Fortress
- Choose your party carefully. Each character in Ishar has their own unique abilities and skills, so it is important to choose a party that is well-rounded and can handle a variety of challenges.
- Manage your resources wisely. Food and water are essential for survival in Ishar, so make sure to keep your supplies stocked up. You should also be careful not to overextend yourself in combat, as your characters can easily become fatigued or injured.
- Explore the world thoroughly. Ishar’s world is vast and full of secrets, so take your time to explore every nook and cranny. You may find hidden treasures, new quests, or even new party members.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. Ishar is a non-linear game, so there is no one right way to play it. Experiment with different party combinations and strategies to find what works best for you.
- Have fun! Ishar is a challenging but rewarding game, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the experience.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
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