Battlemaster

A day in the life...

Battlemaster was released in 1990 by PSS, but it isn't something I recall playing. Which is a little odd because I remember seeing the screenshots and being captivated by what I saw. They showcased an overhead-action RPG featuring battles against insidious creatures, including Orcs, Spiders, Elves, giant insects, and more. These are the types of games that really appeal to me, so I'm baffled why I let it slip by. What a weirdo!

Booting it up for the first time presents an impressive title that sets the scene for what appears to be a festival of bloody gore. We can be any of 16 adventurers from four races: human, elf, dwarf, and orc. Some venture solo, whereas others are part of a clan. Beginning my first game was fun, with good graphics and a user interface I found intuitive and easy to grasp. Selecting the warrior seemed a great choice, but I made the foolish decision to touch the water, which is oddly deadly - instant death (and you only get one life).

So I restarted as an Orc; an utterly disastrous move, as I was hated by everyone, so I died quickly. Once again, I restarted, this time as an elf, which was confusing because this fella wasn't alone - his party ran around like maniacs. Then my elf fell into a pit that suddenly appeared without a warning. Instant death!

This wasn't going well. So, I did what no guy does: I read the manual. This pamphlet is short, but engaging, with a background story that is both predictable and intriguing. The gameplay basics are nicely explained, including a guide for newcomers, which I appreciated. Also explained are the differences in gameplay styles that concern commanding troops (if applicable) and negotiating with NPCs for items or safe passage.

Incidentally, I chuckled at a section of the manual about the four different races. It's humorously candid and helps you decide who you want to be. I cannot read this blunt piece of text without smiling...

Dwarves hate Elves and Orcs,

Elves hate Dwarves and Orcs,

Humans like no one but despise Orcs the most.

Orcs hate everyone!

I guess it pays to read the manual? Who'd have thunk it? Let's see the first screenshot...

The user interface isn't baffling at all. In fact, it's quite superb:

1) These are our main stats.
2) Depending on the situation, we can access weaponry and inventory.
3) The journey icon is replaced with Parley (returns when the quest is done).
4) The next three text options are relevant for commanding troops.

5) The green area is a scanner; we're the red cross/other characters are yellow.

6) There is an info box that provides location names and helpful tips.

A Cruel World

The first thing that struck me about Battlemaster was how you're hurled straight into the action without a hint of guidance. You then notice the frantic pace at which enemies move about. It's quite chaotic as they run into view, firing off missiles before legging it. The key to surviving is teasing them out and away in smaller groups. Otherwise, you will be mobbed by a bloodthirsty pack of medieval lunatics with a death wish.

This instantly means you must practice with the controls to get anywhere. Battlemaster employs 8-way movement using the keyboard, mouse, or joystick. The mouse is terrible, and I got nowhere with my joystick, but I need a new one, so that could be why. However, I instantly took to the keyboard, which you can redefine with 8-way controls via the numeric pad. I preferred keeping it simple, using the cursor keys.

Exploration is always fun and part of what makes any RPG a fascinating experience. What's better than discovering a new place with potential for enemies, people, treasure, weapons, etc? Well, hold your horses and slow down because you won't get very far without keeping your eyes on the scanner...

• Use it to get an idea of where the enemy is, and begin walking towards them - with a ranged weapon at the ready. If they get close, hit the spacebar to pause and flip to a melee weapon.
• Sounds like real-time with pause? Kinda, and you should use that!!
• Hidden traps are a big thing in Battlemaster, but there is never any indication of where they might be. It's stupid because you only get one life, so falling into a chasm that appears from nowhere is infuriating! So tread softly. Thankfully, their locations are static and easy to remember.

Let's take a break and view a lovely woodland scene where life is peaceful and quiet...

There is an option to parley, but wait, I see a bottle on the ground?
Should I take that, or will it anger the locals into a frenzy?

Riverdale

Battlemaster's world is massive and splits into dozens of sections accessed via a world map. Once you muddle through the initial confusion of the first level, which generously teaches you the joys of hidden traps and punishes you for paddling in a stream (groan), you will blast through the following early stages pretty quickly. Every area is not only visually different but also moves the story forward in its own unique way.

It’s always worth exploring properly to see who is waiting for a chat, and whether there is anything remotely helpful like armour, food, etc. Each zone is fairly compact and has a specific task you’ll need to complete before progressing (use the journey icon, which remains greyed out until the tasks are completed).

Don't expect this game to be a pushover, as most battles devolve into chaotic scuffles where you're hammering the fire button and praying for a win. But think before raising your sword, not everyone is ready to fight. Assuming you win and don't fall victim to a hidden trap, then you will enjoy making progress because each area is uniquely interesting. That said, not everything makes complete sense, like stumbling across food the locals left lying around, hoping you'd politely ignore it. Erm, no! Why would anyone do that???

Once back in the world map, you can move to another adjacent area to continue pillaging! As you can see in the next screenshot, the game shows the available places you can (currently) travel. It's like Baldur's Gate, as you cannot travel huge distances without traversing through. And I liked that a lot!

A huge number of places are waiting for you, dear adventurer. Let's pause for a screenshot...

This map displays the various locations linked via currently available stages.

Graphics & Sounds

I'm not usually bothered by flashy visual effects in an RPG, as the adventure lies in the storyline, characters, action, and exploration. But let's be honest, they're good to have, and Battlemaster's landscapes range from lush woodlands to rocky deserts, and they look impressive. However, it’s the monster sprites that I really love. They’re fantastic and very much in the style of Dungeons & Dragons, constantly providing a 16-bit feast for the eyes to highlight the ghouls encountered, and this is where Battlemaster pleases me.

Sadly, the gameplay window is only about half the size of the screen, as the user interface occupies the other half. That's understandable for a game like this (and helpful), but I'd have expected better scrolling as a trade-off. Don't get me wrong, it's good enough, but still a little bit disappointing if I'm honest.

The audio is a mixed bag. There is no title music, but PSS didn't skimp on the sound effects by using crunchy samples. I like the cries of people dying with such elaborate samples, which is hugely entertaining.

One last screenshot of me avoiding death (for once) before the gripping conclusion...

From the start, Battlemaster shows how cruel it can be. Hidden traps!

CryptO'pinion

Battlemaster certainly plunges you into the thick of the action from the very start. The manual gives a few helpful nudges and starter tips, but nothing really prepares you for the sheer brutality of the first area. Choose your character wisely based on their skills, weapon types, and whether you want backup or to go solo. Then spend a little time mastering the controls and getting used to scrapping with the enemy.

Even once you've got the basics down, you're still likely to meet a quick and ridiculous end, which is hard to initially grasp. It might be a mob of goons hiding in a cave who leave you no chance to react, or maybe it’s an arrow from off-screen, or the classic blunder of sipping water from a deadly river. Worse still, death may come because of a perfectly hidden trap that you had no way on God's green Earth to detect.

Every step you take will be like walking on eggshells, and you will suspect everyone and be wary of everything. Nothing scares me more than a bottomless pit suddenly appearing from out of thin air, but these are always located in the same place(!). Once you grasp how pointlessly illogical these initial traps are, then progress will be made to other areas. Regardless, save your game regularly, as you will be reloading a lot.

Battlemaster's emphasis is always on action and solving obscure puzzles. Discovering new lands is very exciting, as you see the story unfold with new places, tales, and people. Plus, there is a myriad of different beasts just waiting to be killed. Also, if you’ve built a good team, the squad mechanic actually works quite well - even if the AI is a bit thick. Controlling them feels a bit clunky at times, but I enjoyed giving the orders!

When I first played Battlemaster, I didn't care for it. You're thrown in at the deep end, and the pointless traps become tiresome. However, I liked the setting and the opportunity to travel to unique places, so I stuck with it. I'm glad I did. You will get to wander strange lands, slay monsters galore, and do it all in the name of a baloney storyline. It's fantastic, so I’m giving it a trapdoor-dodging, monster-mashing 85%.

• Here are a few screenshots and download links from Atari Legend or Atari FTP Archive.
• I have an RPG Quest group listed on the right, and many other "Quest" groups!

I love going into other people's homes uninvited.

Hey, I see a ladder. I'm sure nobody will mind if I take that...

I found a hidden cave and went inside. This is a dangerous place!!

I only took this screenshot because I liked the graphics so much lol

This is where I'm currently up to, and stuck. How can I get through the door?

Knightmare

Best laid plans...

For those living on another planet for the last few decades, Knightmare is an RPG similar to one we all know and love. Developed by Commodore legend Antony Crowther, it utilises his excellent Captive engine, but with a user interface that looks much better. I admit, I've been eager to give this game a proper go for ages. I was hoping it would be a good one, as I wanted to attack its dungeon and come back with news of another crawler to recommend. Unfortunately, things didn’t quite turn out as expected, but more on that later.

Before we begin, pessimists might judge this game as nothing more than a Dungeon Master wannabe. They could be right, but the box has a line boasting, "It makes Dungeons and Dragons seem like newts splashing around in a muddy puddle". Needless to say, I booted it up feeling cautiously wary but with great anticipation. After all, who doesn't enjoy romping through dark, creepy dungeons, killing the unearthly beasts?

This 1991 computer game is based on the 80s TV show, and being of a certain age, you might assume I was a fan. Well, no. I don't remember much, as I thought it was cheesy. I recall a medieval environment with kids pretending to be in a cryptic dungeon - all thanks to bluescreen computer-generated graphics.

I have no idea how closely the game follows the show, but I know its opening intro is cool...

This is the Knightmare castle? Awesome pixel art!! Wanna step inside with me?

Arghhh!! Lord Fear turns up to ruin everyone's day. Miserable sod isn't he!

What's the story?

As a party of four adventurers, we have the noble task of seeking out magical objects held within these dungeons: The Shield of Justice, the Sword of Freedom, the Cup of Life, and the Crown of Glory. By the sounds of it, the adventure will be huge and spread over four "episodes". Once all are found, we hope to destroy the evil sorcerer, Lord Fear. It sounds melodramatic, but show me the dungeon entrance. I want in!

The manual pulls no punches and instructs the player that 'fear will be with you constantly". There are other cheery lines like "death is always around the next corner". It's grim and aims to prepare you for the difficult challenges ahead. Of course, it's not all bad. Treguard is the dungeon master who tries to provide helpful tips and advice. Well, I said, "Tries". Nonetheless, heed his words, but don't expect too much.

Dare you to enter the Knightmare and battle the minions of Lord Fear? Of course, you do...

First things first, create your own team or head out with a default crew of dungeoneers?

Choosing your own is best, but make sure you name 'em better than I did!

Controls & User Interface

Beginning with the basics, the controls instantly feel familiar to fans of Dungeon Master and the ilk. Exploration is done through a grid layout with 90-degree turns. Directional buttons are used for walking, sidestepping, and turning (there are buttons for up/down, but I've yet to find a use). The user interface is clean, uncomplicated, and concise, with our party's stats illustrated with bars for health, stamina, and magic.

The layout (and execution) of our actions is expected, whilst also fresh, using a design that performs perfectly. With the mouse, a left click interacts with the user interface and the world (picking up and throwing objects). Any character can also assign an action (like kicking and punching) to his/her default. This is superb, especially when holding a weapon, and a spellcaster's abilities expand greatly when using a wand.

This excellent design continues for other aspects, like the inventory with its many available slots. Encumbrance is conveniently detailed, so don't ignore it whilst lugging everything you find. There are also slots used to equip clothing and weaponry. That alien-looking dude in the middle indicates hunger and should make perfect sense regarding food. I found the user interface a breeze, which is odd for a nitpicker like me!

Yep, I'm often slow to grasp a game's user interface, but Knightmare's is far beyond excellent...

The inventory screen is beautifully designed and so easy to use.

YES, click this thumbnail for a larger image!! Go on, you know you want to :)

Welcome to the dungeons of Dunshelm

So, who will you venture into the wild with for companionship and support? Well, you can decide whether to stick with the default or assemble your own band of merry men/goblins/elves/etc. I have a couple of Clubber Langs at the front with others helping with range, magic, healing, etc. The starting area is void of anything interesting, with no items or puzzles. Isn't that bizarre, but wait, I see a cart. Let's jump inside that...

Once you've arrived at the woodlands, exploring is mind-boggling. The area is a confusing jungle labyrinth. A Goblin soon appears, but is easy to kill, and he disappears into the void after a few kicks. Soon, you will stumble upon a 'ghostly thing', which is super easy to defeat and made me wonder what the point was. Look out for rabbits, these nip at your heels the moment you turn away - give them a kick and watch them scarper. Actually, it's worth chasing these blighters because their death rewards with a rabbit pie. YUM!!

Compared to a typical dungeon environment, the woodlands are incredibly bewildering, so it's advisable to make a map as you explore. North of your starting location is a walled area and the place where the 'ghostly thing' would often appear. Hint - look around for anything obscure that could be usable. Getting around the woodland is tough, but a map now proves its worth because I struggled to see the wood for the trees!

To the west is a prison, and inside it are several Giants. They are like goblins, only bigger and much stronger. This is where my progress hit a brick wall because this seemed to be the only way through the woodlands. They constantly killed me, no matter what tactics I used (I was losing the will to live). So, I eventually concluded that this was something to return to later. There must be another exit, somewhere...

I continued on and, by sheer chance, I found talking trees. One wanted her baby back, another asked, "Have you seen my cup?", and another wanted a weapon. By this point, I had collected quite an inventory of junk, and I had a thought about the first tree's request. What did it need? I'm sure you can guess. Well, she rewards our kindness with entrance to The Shield of Justice. FINALLY, I'M GETTING SOMEWHERE!!

You don't want to know how many hours were spent to get this far! Let's see some screenshots...

You thought a rabbit was timid? Not these buggers!! Kick 'em to death lol

You won't be able to beat these Giants so early in the game!

The Shield Of Justice

After (finally) escaping the woodlands, I arrived in what can only be described as Dungeon Master World (ha!). A nearby plaque announced that this was indeed "Quest One, the Shield of Justice". Instantly, I was relieved to be playing something that I originally desired from Knightmare, a dungeon and not a forest!

Yes, this relief of standing in a dungeon after many wasted hours in those damn woods is intense. As you begin, the first thing you will notice is the visuals. This is one enchanting place illuminated by a colourful design that makes Dungeon Master look decidedly bland. So, as I carefully tread and begin discovering interesting pathways, bizarre objects, and doors just waiting to be opened. This is great, I thought to myself.

I begin mapping and exploring the corridors, and I stumble upon an obvious trap involving a switch that launches a fireball to light you up like Blackpool Tower. However, I can also see something in the next room through the wall's bars. These problems are easily overcome, and a few corridors later, I find myself using pressure plates in the floor to access a hidden area. This episode is becoming increasingly exciting!!

Sadly, my elation doesn't endure because something's not quite right. The deeper I get, the more frequently I fight the bad guys. Unfortunately, it's more of a struggle than a challenge because I found few weapons, and my health was suffering. Not only this, but all combat is extremely tough, and soon to the point where you cannot win any battle without running away to hide and gather yourself behind a closed door.

Thankfully, there is a ridiculous cheat I discovered by sheer chance - use the doors. There is no standing your ground like a man here. No, it's better to draw out an enemy and lead them towards an open door. Stand there, and when a monster gets close enough, shut the door on it. This action will eventually crush it to death, which is similar to Dungeon Master, Space Crusade, and others. However, I was using this method all the time rather than my weapons/spells because it was simply too difficult. It didn’t help that so few items were accumulated within this dungeon, aside from fatigue. Unfair, unbalanced, and disheartening.

I'll be honest, I was starting to wonder by this point why I had bought the game. Yes, bought. What a sucker I am. Anyhow, it wasn't long before I discovered the game's next oddity - sharks! That's right, there are flooded areas with sharks swimming about. Getting safe passage is a pain because this aspect of the game's engine doesn't work well. Try as I might, I've completely lost interest in defeating Lord Fear.

From what little I remember, I cannot imagine this game comes close to following the TV show. In fact, it's an abomination!! I’m at my wits’ end and completely lost interest. I suppose I’d eventually find an object to unlock the next quest, but I won’t be returning to the nightmare of Knightmare anytime soon.

So, umm, shall we carry on? Well, I suppose so with a couple of screenshots...

This is the first object you come across. Wanna risk touching it?

Unlike this guy, most enemies are tough. So use the doors to crush them!

The CryptO'pinion?

Of all the Atari ST games I have played, this one took the longest to get into, perhaps even more than Armada (and that's saying something!). But it was all for nothing. Sure, the graphics are great, and the thought that went into the user interface is impressive. But all that effort is for nothing as the game is utter tripe!!

I spent ages trying to leap off the moving cart before being rewarded with a woodland nightmare. Then, the joy of finally entering a dungeon was short-lived due to the ridiculous, unbalanced gameplay. Constantly needing to crush enemies with gates takes the... Michael!! However, I did enjoy the tasty rabbit pies.

Knightmare has clawed its way into my Hall of Shame, and I'm rating it an unforgivable 35% because it's the Atari ST's worst RPG (I've played). Straight to the eBay pile with this. Just play Dungeon Master.

Fools may download PP's hard drive version or the floppies via Atari FTP Archive

Bio Hazard

Imperial Transporter Equadus

Bio Hazard is a 3D first-person adventure developed in STOS by Les Greenhalgh. If you’ve ever played Dungeon Master (I can’t believe I just said that), you will know exactly what to expect in terms of its basic gameplay. The documentation claims this is Dungeon Master in Space, and while the style and visuals support that, I’d say this is a completely different experience, being more of an action/adventure shooter.

We're in space, aboard a ship with a radiation leak on its fourth deck. It gets worse: the xenomorph containment vessels have ruptured, and an infestation is imminent - of course it is. Don't worry, a security team was sent to assess the damage. Actually, no - do worry - because all contact with them has been lost!

Meanwhile, the ship's computer is preparing to wake the remaining operatives from hypersleep and has initiated the self-destruct sequence to stop the xenomorphs from falling into enemy hands. Our job is to place plutonium fuel rods into their designated slots. Once that's done, we’ll have two minutes to escape before the entire ship undergoes a thermonuclear implosion. The escape shuttlecraft is located on the first level.

Enough of my jibber jabber, let's see some screenshots...

Based on the Dungeon Master engine, we explore a camp ship with a weird colour scheme.

Look everywhere for items that may help. Hey, what's that camouflaged on the ground?

Let's explore!

First things first, you won’t get far without fully understanding the user interface. It will be confusing at first, but once you get used to it, it’s actually quite good - just a bit clunky. The main window gives you a first-person perspective, while below it, you’ll find details of what you’re carrying along with your vital stats. Over on the right, there’s a cluster of icons that, frankly, could have been better - less is more & all that.

Now, before you charge off to an untimely death (courtesy of a xenomorph that looks suspiciously like a metallic Facehugger), take a moment to get familiar with this interface. Below, I’ve included a screenshot of the main screen and also the inventory, with helpful numbered markings for this guide...

• 1) Use the icons to navigate, but I preferred using the keyboard.
• 2) The two icons in the middle of the arrows are to aim, and the other operates the doors.
• 3) Pickup... Drop items... Load weapon/Battery... Recruit a person to your team.
• 4) Up ladders/teleporters... Same, but down... Inventory... Use syringes/disks.
• 5) These weirdo guys are the team members you've chosen.
• 6) This is where you can view a level map (it doesn't last long!)
• 7) Left and right hands to carry and use items - like laser guns and more.
• 8) Stats - until later in the game, only worry about "S" for Stamina.

The opening area is free from aliens, so take time to explore and get comfortable with this interface. You will find a disk on the floor with a message welcoming you to the game and instructing you to gather your team. Don’t forget to check the wall dispensers for extra goodies - ammo, a battery, and a syringe. Finally, you’ll notice two doorways. One is locked(!), but the other is open and ready for you to step through. Dare you?

You don't need to be brave and open that door - not with more screenshots to view...

They sure made these spacecraft with trippy colours using two main colour types.
Check out the numbered markings and use the key above. It's easier than it looks!

You can store everything in the inventory, from a spanner to a grenade.
However, there’s a catch: you can’t transfer items directly between team members.
Instead, you must drop the item on the floor and get another character to pick it up...

Let's kill aliens!

I’m guessing you’ve taken that next step and opened that door? From here on out, things get dangerous - especially since you’re unarmed! Thankfully, after a few steps, you will see several wall dispensers. Surely, one of them has a weapon we can use? You will also notice some with faces - these people you can add to your team. Strangely, there’s no real info about them, so I suppose we’re judging purely on looks?

Make sure you grab the map and, more importantly, find that weapon - which, as it turns out, is an axe. Not exactly sci-fi, but it gets the job done because there are no electronics or moving parts. A reliable weapon that is effective at close range. Later, you’ll come across a laser gun, though it’s not quite as dependable as you shall discover. Hey, did you happen to spot a repair terminal back there? That might come in handy!

The first level is big and nicely "divided" into sections using closed doorways, each crawling with aliens just waiting to be smashed with that axe (remember to close these doors!). As you push forward, you'll start getting access to other weapons, like a laser gun, mines, and grenades. Be careful with anything explosive - if you’re too close when it goes off, the character leading your team is going to take some heavy damage!

Each level has "hidden" areas you can access by what looks like a rubber swimming ring. It’s actually a teleporter that whisks you away to a separate section packed with rooms to explore and wall terminals to loot. Eventually, you’ll reach a point where the enemies are getting bigger and nastier. Your axe will do the job, but whatever you do, don’t stand still and soak up unnecessary damage - keep moving and stay sharp!

This game is probably starting to sound very familiar. A rip-off? But I'd say, Bio Hazard is very much a game of action and exploration - walk, search, find, use, and take down anything that gets in your way. I really like how the game eases you in with a simple map packed with useful items. This helps you get your bearings while also letting you experiment - reloading weapons, using syringes, reading disks, and so on.

The learning curve extends to the enemies as well. Before long, you’ll start coming across eggs. They may look harmless at first, but don’t be fooled - think of the Alien films! Once they (somehow) sense your presence, they crack open. And that’s when something jumps out - something that looks suspiciously like a spider. Or maybe an Alien Facehugger. Either way, it's time to put that new axe to good use!

At this point, you’ll probably start paying attention to the stats at the bottom of the screen. For now, it's only worth keeping your eyes on the first as the others won't really come into play until later.

• "S" for Stamina is essentially your health. This can be replenished with items you find.
• "R" for Radiation - though I never actually saw this increase.
• "I" for Impregnation - I have no idea if that applies to you or the ship!
• "C" for Countdown kicks in when you’re racing to escape at the end.
• "L" for the level of radiation during the final moments.

Dungeon Master in space? I’m more like Jason Voorhees in space! Let's have more screenshots...

The first real enemy on level one is a big mother with teeth!

Kill her, and a few Facehuggers, then you will see the exit to the next stage.

Aesthetics

The colour scheme in this game is... interesting. The early levels are drenched in beige and purple, which doesn’t exactly scream "stylish". However, it’s not a massive issue, and not commercial, so I'll not moan. Regardless, this beige theme actually works well for the user interface - it’s clean and precise.

This front-end feels overwhelming at first - so I jotted down notes about the function of each icon, ensuring my old brain wouldn’t get confused. But after half an hour, it becomes second nature. There are a lot of icons, maybe too many, but you get used to them. The real pain comes with swapping weapons and items between characters - it’s a bit fiddly. But overall, the display works well, even if the colour choices are peculiar!

The audio is absolutely spot on with a wide range of effects for nearly every action - doors sliding open, the dispensers, and that gratifying clonk when you smack an alien with your axe. You’ll love hearing your own cries in action! The only letdown is the lack of footstep sounds, though I guess that’s not surprising.

I think I've yapped on enough! Let's see some screenshots before the gripping conclusion...

Something big is coming, and I can fight or close that doorway and run.

I was being beaten senseless. So... Game over, man. Game over!

The CryptO'pinion

To recap, the interface is (initially) awkward and cluttered with icons for actions that don’t need them - like separate buttons for picking up and dropping items instead of a simple click-&-drag. Recruiting teammates makes sense, but the system is clunky - item exchanges are cumbersome, and equipping them becomes a chore that’s easy to overlook. Worst of all, the map. It's super handy until its power drains way too fast!

That said, despite these gripes, for a homebrew adventure, this game absolutely rocks. Navigating through the ship is quick and easy, with no lag. The maps are cleverly crafted, hitting that sweet spot - engaging and progressively tougher, yet never impossible. And, unlike similar games, Bio Hazard is generous with its items, such as ammo and health, which makes it possible to progress deeper into the unknown.

It’s funny, but I wasn't expecting much when I first saw the graphics. I thought it would lack the charm of the commercial games and be nothing more than an “also-ran.” How wrong I was. Bio Hazard is a blast! It's well-designed, fun, and worth checking out if you fancy a break from a traditional crawler.

Think of it as more of a Lite Dungeon Master that earns a respectable 75% rating from yours truly.

• The only download worth getting is the registered game from Atarimania!!
• However, there is a demo version with a simpler user interface/etc, which may tempt other players to take a stab at this rewarding game? I hope so. This can be found at Atari Legend that has a few Menu Disks. AtariUpToDate has the demo on a Floppyshop disk.

Ultima V: Warriors of Destiny

Father Christmas has come early!

Atari Legend is playing Santa with a fantastic run-up to Christmas by releasing something special every day throughout December. It wasn't until the 7th when they released an HDD-patched download of Ultima 5 that I became intrigued by their offer. Wow, that doesn't sound right, 1-6 where ace. Doh!

The land of Britannia has lost its king, Lord British, and is now ruled by a tyrant called Blackthorn. As the Avatar, your mission is to return to Britannia. You must uncover Lord British’s fate, rally allies, restore the true meaning of virtues and overthrow Blackthorn’s regime to restore balance to the kingdom.

Yeah, it sounds corny, with the good vs evil problem. But this game looks very interesting, and I love the look of the overhead visuals. I’m curious about the character I should create to explore this strange world.

Okay, guys, it's screenshot time! Let's take a look...

Looks like I'm in a pretty cosy place and very glam too.

Okay, let's get out and explore the lush countryside.

Oh no, a two-headed Ettin has found me when walking over the hills...

I'm too weak and need better weapons - I should have run away!

First Impressions

Creating a character is an unusual affair, and something I didn't expect, but this process eventually got Stevie configured and into the thick of it. Boy, are there a large number of keys to learn for each and every additional action, which basically means your interaction within the world at large. In fact, the world is huge, and the battles are challenging, so exploring Britannia is going to be fun (or agony?). I can take it!!

I am genuinely enjoying my first walks through the grasslands and forests, until I found a small bridge with a Troll. Luckily, I made it across without him noticing me, but I then ran into red demons who decided that they wanted a piece. You know, those pieces that I need to stay alive... Yep, my first battle didn't go down well if I'm honest - DEAD! But wait, I've been resurrected for another bash! Let's hope I can do better.

This is one seriously immersive RPG. I'm talking months of my life, gone...

Vicious snakes decide to spit venom at our plucky adventurers.

Now I feel Ultima V is finally starting to show its true colours.

What a game, and I must say that I adore the graphical style and detail. Amazing!

Hey, look, I've just found a map! Time for a drink before leaving...

Have my plans changed?

Yes, they certainly have. I’ve decided to spend Christmas in the world of Ultima V, complete with whiskey, turkey butties, and mince pies! I’m really looking forward to learning more about the game and have enjoyed a few interesting attempts (ahem failures). I love the style of Ultima V; the graphics are fantastic, and the adventure is incredibly captivating. I’m afraid I haven’t fully mastered the combat system yet, but I’ll get there.

I’m excited to take this game seriously and see how my next adventure unfolds. Watch this space, folks. Now, if you're totally a noob to Ultima V, then I'd love to hear of your progress. Enjoy the Christmas gift!

Thanks to Atari Legend for the daily treats.

STay Atari. Or die!

Chaos Strikes Back

Yet more audio clarity

Following on from yesterday's wonderful news of the Atari STe enhanced update of Dungeon Master, Peter Putnik has improved the audio for Chaos Strikes Back. Once again, this news is making me jump up and down with joy!!! So why not make your Atari STe happy and download this DMA audio upgrade now? Enjoy!! :-)

Legends Of Valour

Swashbuckle in first-person

Legends of Valour is one of the last Atari ST games that I bought before the shop shelves started to be filled with PC/console games. I remember that it received relatively favourable reviews, with its first-person engine getting lots of praise for a 16-bit computer. Personally, I loved it and was smitten by its storyline, depth and longevity, not to mention playing in what felt like a cross between Wolfenstein and Dungeon Master!

Our journey begins in the city of Mitteldorf in search of our cousin, Sven. He previously set out to find his fortune and is now missing - what an idiot. It's been far too long since anybody heard from him, and thus, our adventure begins. The storyline is a little lame, but it leads you into a world fresh and full of strife.

Begin by designing your appearance, including clothing and armament. This means you can choose to be human, dwarf or elf, and each type offers a different gameplay style and alternative outcomes. Select hair, eyes, nose and so on to create your demi-god or perhaps your character will end up looking like a freak?

Note: ignore my poor capture above, as the game moves smoothly. Let's see a screenshot...

It isn't long until somebody nice and welcoming pops up to greet us, as a new traveller.

Get lost ...in an amazing world!

Once you're dandy, enter the city and heed the advice from the local who pops up for a chat. I would advise you to take the time to explore and familiarise yourself with your surroundings, because this is such a massive place and you will need the necessary amenities, like safe lodgings, income, beer to sup, and grub to nosh. Yes, it's pen & paper time! Think of this game like your new virtual world, and be prepared.

Mitteldorf is a fortress city, populated with interesting characters, secretive guilds, curious places, and even a labyrinth of dungeons hidden underground. Of course, these are waiting to be explored, but be careful because you might not like what you find down there. Tip: your cousin wrote a letter which explains his story. Perhaps it might feature hidden clues that could help you out along this quest. Heck, you never know?

All exploration is through a first-person engine not too dissimilar to a shooter like Wolfenstein with fully texture-mapped graphics - a testament to what our 16-bit computer can knock out. The display can be configured in three sizes: small to large. Any ST will perform well, but the largest setting needs 16MHz.

Initially, the interface is scary due to the number of icons, but it soon becomes easy to use. Wandering the city is feasible using the GUI's icons, but it can become laborious due to the immense size of the play area, so a right-click will activate mouse control to unlock its full potential. Which is a tremendous way to explore.

Only some people you meet are nice and helpful. Many are nasty, like this guy...

Wow, there is no need to take that attitude with me. A festering sore? lol excellent!

Chill, relax, chat with the yocals

Legends of Valour isn't something you play for a few short moments; you live it. Life here is open-world, a "sandbox" adventure if you like? You are free to roam and do almost anything you want, day or night. This genre has always been a fascinating concept for me, and, although it's an early example, it works well.

Exploring Mitteldorf is exciting and bursting with fun characters, monsters, temples, stores, taverns, employment and more. I love the Olde English medieval setting, which is portrayed and experienced in real-time, so day and night pass by with their own consequence. All the requirements we have in life exist here: eating, sleeping, health and personal safety when in dodgy locations - especially late at night.

I find refuge (and a few ales) at The Hanged Man tavern. That is always a good idea, but perhaps that's me? Just don't get too tipsy and end up in lockup. Ohhh, yes, this is a game offering massive potential.

Mitteldorf is bursting with places to eat, shop, trade and read messages...

  

Mitteldorf has many interesting places to explore, so don't rush and miss a thing.

Turn over every stone

This game is humongous and not something to play for an hour. Learning the city of Mitteldorf alone can be overwhelming, so make notes and a basic key to complement the official map. So much can be understood by communicating with the citizens - get chatting with them over a beer. Don't forget those strange folk who appear to aimlessly wander the streets. Remember, you're living inside this 'RPG', so experience its world.

Be prepared to defend yourself when set upon by King's faithful knights in shining armour. But even a little old lady can throw a barrage of humorous insults before giving you a good slap, which was rather unexpected. There's only one thing left to do - slap her back!! That's right, why not hit an old lady? Yes, you are limited only by your own evil imagination and fiendish desires. Explore and live this game.

What great advice for such a wondrous place. Also, let's pause for a couple of screenshots...

Arghh!! I've been caught again. I guess I look too dodgy?

 This means I've been thrown down before the King's mercy. Sigh...

The CryptO'pinion?

Legends of Valour is something special and offers a vibrant and exciting place to live a life of intrigue. So many characters, taverns to frequent, secret guilds to master, monster-infested dungeons to plunder, and then there are side quests. As you begin to make progress and delve deeper, you soon realize just how much more potential there is just waiting to be discovered. Heck, I had almost forgotten to search for Sven!

Sadly, nothing is perfect, and I feel Legends of Valour lacks in a couple of areas: the battles could have been executed better, and it's disappointing to discover most buildings are (visually) empty. Also, audio is limited to spot effects, which is a shame considering the number of disks in the box - a few ambient samples or more chippy fx could have improved the atmosphere, especially during the night scenes.

Legends of Valour is incredible and massively enthralling. Allow yourself to get lost in this advantageous world, because there is so much to see and do. One of the best Atari ST games you should play.

Grab the hard drive version by 8BitChip.

Poor old floppy folk should use Atari Legend.

A city map and clue book ... and I had "fun" in October!!