Summary
- Release Year: 1987
- Genres: Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: Amiga, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS, Sega Mega Drive/Genesis
- Developers: MicroIllusions
- Publishers: Electronic Arts, Tec Toy
The Faery Tale Adventure (1987): A Sprawling Epic in a Realm of Enchantment
Released in 1987, The Faery Tale Adventure was a groundbreaking computer role-playing game (CRPG) that transported players to the magical realm of Holm. Developed by Westwood Associates and published by Electronic Arts, the game was a critical and commercial success, lauded for its vast open world, real-time gameplay, and enchanting atmosphere.
A Realm of Unparalleled Scope
The Faery Tale Adventure boasted an astonishingly large game world, touted as the largest ever created at the time. Spanning a staggering 17,000 computer screens worth of terrain, Holm was a realm of diverse landscapes, from lush forests and sparkling lakes to towering mountains and treacherous dungeons. Players were free to explore this vast world at their own pace, discovering hidden treasures, encountering a myriad of creatures, and unraveling the secrets of the land.
Real-Time Gameplay and Tactical Combat
Unlike many CRPGs of the era, The Faery Tale Adventure featured real-time gameplay. Players directly controlled their party of three brothers, navigating the world and engaging in combat in real time. This dynamic gameplay added a sense of urgency and excitement to the exploration and battles, as players had to react quickly to changing situations.
Combat in The Faery Tale Adventure was turn-based and tactical. Players could position their party members strategically, choose from a variety of weapons and spells, and execute special abilities. The game’s combat system was challenging and rewarding, requiring players to carefully consider their tactics and adapt to different enemy types.
A Trio of Unlikely Heroes
The player takes on the roles of three brothers: Gareth, the warrior; Tristan, the thief; and Simon, the wizard. Each brother possessed unique skills and abilities, and players had to learn to use their combined strengths to overcome the challenges of Holm.
Gareth was a formidable melee fighter, skilled in the use of swords and axes. Tristan was adept at stealth, lockpicking, and disarming traps. Simon was a powerful spellcaster, capable of wielding a variety of elemental and magical attacks.
An Enchanting World of Fantasy
The Faery Tale Adventure was not only vast in size but also rich in detail and atmosphere. The game’s world was filled with a colorful cast of characters, from friendly villagers and wise old wizards to mischievous fairies and fearsome monsters. Players encountered talking animals, solved riddles, and followed clues to uncover the hidden secrets of Holm.
The game’s graphics, while simple by today’s standards, were charming and evocative. The character sprites were expressive and detailed, and the environments were rendered with a painterly style that captured the whimsical and magical nature of the world.
A Legacy of Innovation and Influence
The Faery Tale Adventure was a groundbreaking game that pushed the boundaries of the CRPG genre. Its vast open world, real-time gameplay, and enchanting atmosphere set a new standard for exploration and adventure in video games. The game’s influence can still be seen in modern CRPGs, which continue to draw inspiration from its innovative design.
Conclusion
The Faery Tale Adventure remains a beloved classic of the CRPG genre. Its vast world, real-time gameplay, and enchanting atmosphere have captivated generations of players. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the realm of Holm, The Faery Tale Adventure is a timeless masterpiece that deserves to be experienced by all who love fantasy, exploration, and adventure.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
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