The Adventures Of Robin Hood

Fancy a dollop of English folklore?

Okay, I haven't posted any box art from my own collection in a while. So, I figured it should be a dodgy guy in tights, lurking in the woods, was the perfect way to end this bleak streak? Hang on, that didn't sound too good, did it! Anyhow, The Adventures of Robin Hood was released in 1991 by Millennium Software, and it's an RPG similar in appearance to certain 3D isometric God games you may have played.

The box is absolutely awesome and in good condition, with all contents too. It's quite something to think this has been kept for 30+ years and feels (almost) as good as it did back in the day. Wow, I'm really geeking out here - the wife loves that. Anyhow, what I like is that it boasts this statement: "the most original real-time adventure ever produced". Errol Flynn would approve, or is that a load of nonsense?

Wanna see the back of the box and what's inside? Carry on scrolling...

The back of the box is ruined by screenshots from an Ameoba. Otherwise, I like it! ;p

Here's the disk, fascinating, uh? Whose idea was it to stamp green onto a blue disk?

Who remembers the TV show Robin of Sherwood?

It begins with an intro depicting life in Nottingham Castle. However, it's not long before the nasty Sheriff appears and kicks Robin Hood out onto the street, where he suffers cold shoulders and verbal abuse. These peasants continue to go about their day (that aspect intrigues me), and there are many interesting folk.

The Sheriff is ruthless! The people need a hero who is willing to wear tights, find a band of Merry Men, and camp out in the woods. All perfectly normal, honest. Joking aside, I loved watching the intro so am eager to finally take up the challenge of this rather spiffy RPG, which has been sitting on my shelf for too many years!! :/

I hope the UI is intuitive with elegance in its design. Sometimes, games of this ilk can suffer from cumbersome controls or an over-complicated interface that is slow to operate. The last thing we need is something fiddly which hampers the experience, so I'm hoping for less Galdregon's Domain and more Shadowlands.

It's now time for some extremely interesting manual shots. Brace yourself...

The manual is great and concise with helpful information. A good read indeed.

This folds out like a poster and contains bucketloads of tips and extra help!

The CryptO'pinion? (Not yet!)

Yes, I'm looking forward to exploring Nottinghamshire to see what fun adventures await within the legendary Sherwood Forest. The graphics look tiny, but it appears to work well with lavish colours and beautifully designed surroundings. Just look at the buildings! So I'm eager to see what else there is to discover.

Have you guys played this? I would love to know what you think in the comments below. Until then, I'm going to make time to kill forest baddies, capture the castle, and defeat the Sheriff before King Richard returns home for tea. Watch this space for a review later in the year! Until then, enjoy these screenshots... :-)

Once upon a time, in God's country, there was a peaceful place called Loxley.

The folk had it good with dancing, beer and music. Life doesn't get any better than this!

Hang on, a new Sheriff has arrived and he's not a particularly nice guy...

Robin gets kicked out of his spanky castle, and the townsfolk ain't exactly supportive!

Yep, bumping into anyone proves to be an eye-opener. Billy no mates!

Fascinatingly, the medieval world continues to spin... Life carries on!

What? Wait a minute! What is that?? A dragon?? RUN!!!!

Come on, Robin, put on those big boy pants and sort out this evil dude!!

Temple of Apshai Trilogy

Another dungeon!!

Temple of Apshai Trilogy was released in 1986 by Epyx, with the Atari ST conversion handled by Westwood (Command & Conquer!). The package features the original plus two expansion packs, "Upper Reaches Of Apshai" and "Curse Of Ra". Oddly, Hellfire Warrior is not included (does anyone know the story behind that?).

It's a turn-based RPG with few expected similarities to Rogue. Each of the three realms has four distinct difficulty levels, but unlike Rogue, each dungeon has been designed rather than randomly generated. Curiously, there is an almost nonexistent storyline beyond the point of killing and treasure hunting. Understandably, this might disappoint some adventurers, but I enjoyed the freedom to roam without a bothersome backstory.

Let's see a couple of screenshots. Just to get rid of those who only care about pretty visuals...

Yep, you're probably wondering about the graphics. Right?

Please don't do that. Graphics never make the game, and this game proves that fact.

Monsters, weapons and freedom to roam?

First things first, we need to build ourselves a character using a combination of different attributes that will affect strength, dexterity, intelligence, and so on (you can save and reload your characters). Either keep it real and roll a die, or fudge the numbers to get playing. Personally, I wouldn't restrict myself at all.

You can venture naked with only your pride as a weapon, but it's best to visit the Innkeeper to get equipped. He has everything you need, even if you must haggle for the best price - if you can be bothered? Armour, weaponry, arrows, and more. But these all come with a financial and weight cost. Be very wise and savvy.

Let's have a deeper look at some screenshots that detail much of the RPG side...

  
The Innkeeper seems to have everything you need to get started. Well, for a price...

  
He's not a generous man. I tried to explain that I couldn't pay, so his heavies broke my kneecaps!

Role-play like it's 1986!

Temple of Apshai allows you to start at the beginning or (foolishly) jump in at the deep end on the later levels (these are tough!). When you begin, your world is viewed from a top-down perspective with helpful information listed on the right for health, ammo, information, etc. And yes, it's running under GEM :)

Oddly, there isn't any real objective to the dungeons - other than exploring, killing the baddies, and collecting loot. Although Upper Reaches does attempt to give your adventure some purpose. Well, it tries.

For example...

Level one takes place behind the Innkeeper's Backyard which needs tidying up. Yep, we're on cleaning duties but at least he's warned us of a bandit in the area. Come on, this has to be the strangest tasks ever?

Level two, Merlis' Cottage is quite odd. We're in Merlis' home looking for cash because he failed to cough up after we painted his fence!

Level three is Olias' Cellar but nothing is mentioned in the manual so I assume we're back to killing and looting without reason? Fine by me!

Level four is set within Benedic's once peaceful Monastery which has been turned into an unholy Romero movie thanks to an evil vampire!

  
Start slow. Why not fire an arrow at your first opponent, and don't forget to search...

Stay Awhile and Listen

Whatever realm you're in, each room has a design with a description detailing what you can see and hear. There's no need to pick up the manual for the ST game, just hit [return] to read about your environment. Also, the rooms are numbered, so you can make a map of routes, traps, hidden doorways, etc.

Getting around the dungeons is done using a keyboard command system, quite similar(ish) to something like Ultima. Predefined keys are used to walk, turn, fight, talk, search, etc. You can use the mouse - but that's bad, so stick to using the keyboard. This is perfect and a lot better than you might initially assume:

RETURN = Make sure you read each room's description!

0 = Use this to rest and recover from some of that nasty fatigue.
L/R = This is pretty obvious and makes turning around easy.
V = Swoosh, you've just made a complete 180°
1-9 Let's go for a little walk, under the moon... Erm, never mind!

A = Hit 'em hard when you're up-close!!
T = Thrust a lunging attack which might leave you vulnerable?
P = Defend yourself with a countermove, you wimp!!
F/M = Take 'em out from a safe distance, sniper-style.

E = Budding adventurers will look under every stone.
O = Doors won't just open themselves you know!
S = Don't rush through, search for those hidden thangs...
I = Inventory (there's a shock).
G = Grab any treasure you find.
D = Ugh, drop that heavy trash.

Q = Shushh, did you hear something?
! = Dr Dolittle, he talks to the animals!

H = Heal yourself before you croak it.
Y = Ohh, gimme some of that fancy Elixir healing.

  
I found a secret room inhabited by a swamp rat. I killed that and took the Magic Sword!!

Characters, with character!

Yep, characters make any adventure fun and interesting, so it comes as no surprise to find out that this Trilogy is stuffed with many exotic creatures and spooky delights. The first being a skeleton - a classic encounter. This guy is pretty tough, so I wouldn't let him get too close if I were you. Challenging from the start!

Brilliantly, we have the option to listen out for distant sounds and even talk to some of the nasties. I doubt you'll get much sense from many, but some creatures might respond. They could let you pass or reveal something of interest. Attempting a dialogue is something unexpected, mind-blowing, and pretty funny too.

Each of the realms has a myriad of ghoulish creatures and some unexpected ones. Battles are fought using a few weapons, but victory comes to those prepared. Press [A] to attack when up close, but you could use [T] to execute a ravaging thrust? This might plunge your sword into a beast's heart, but at what cost? Those carrying a bow can use arrows to kill their prey from afar. Just make sure you're facing them - don't be a fool!

You must admit that this is different and amusing. So, let's view more (clickable) screenshots...

  
There are some fantastic enemies within the dungeon. And ants and mosquitoes too...

  
Upper Reaches is so different, but can you find the bandit? Whereas Merlis' home has ... a cat!

  
The Antmen are incredibly tough blighters, but oddly, the Ghoul was an easy victim of mine!

  
Bears and Giant Bats, whatever next? You'll be telling me there are Vampire Bats around the corner!

Mind As You Go

Playing any part of this trilogy is an amazing experience, but it's an idea to experiment with your newly-created character, just to see how clothing and weaponry feel to your own preferences. Experience is gained as you progress deeper into the dungeon, and it's good practice to take it slow at first. Remember to search/examine/listen no matter where you currently are. Loads of secrets - you never know what might be nearby, be it a treasure chest, a trap or something lurking in the dark waiting to pounce. It's never a bad idea to read the room's written description. Some might say that it's essential!! (/end of hint!)

Always keep an eye on your fatigue, which can take a hit whether you're exploring or battling something freaky. Walking isn't free, and multiple movements will cause a little tiredness that adds to your fatigue (hitting [0] can be rewarding). As with purchasing a box of band-aids before heading out into the unknown.

Remember, we're not God, and any demanding battle might result in severe wounds, possibly leading to death. Not all is lost - roaming these dungeons are three helpers who may help. Bendic is a lost priest who can revive your broken body. All he asks in return is a financial donation. However, others aren't as kind, watch out for a dwarf or wizard who yields greater sacrifices - you might wanna keep your hands in your pockets?

During those desperate moments when all has gone wrong, this is the message I prefer!

Graphics & Sounds

Visually, this is pretty lame by ST standards yet faithful to the bare-bones originals. The backdrops are rather basic, but the sprites are detailed and can look good. I prefer the visuals in other RPGs, most of the time, but Apshai still has its own unique charms. Also, it's GEM-based, which I think is crude - yet it works well.

Audio features chiptunes on the title screen, but only spot effects during the game. However, I do love the clipping for when a monster appears - scary stuff! lol. If ever there was a game that proved fancy aesthetics aren't needed, this is it. In two words, authentically pleasing. I have nothing bad to say.

Hey, let's see another screenshot and this time one with a woman in it...

Please remember what I said, graphics never make the game. Play this RPG!!

The CryptO'pinion

Temple of Apshai Trilogy is brilliant. It's also possibly a forgotten (and much-underrated) game, and that's a shame because the original was a massive success. Dare I say that our Atari ST conversion captures the original's essence perfectly, whilst also making many more improvements I appreciated.

Whatever adventure you choose to play, each one is huge with loads of rooms to explore. Most of my time has been spent within the realms of the temple, which I'm still battling through as I write. The theme is compelling, captivating, and I adore the pre-designed layout. That, I did not expect.

If you want to relive an age of exploration, secret passages and monsters, then this old-timer is definitely for you. Ignore the graphics, don't use the mouse, read the descriptions, and remember to save regularly! A whole world awaits, so expect lots of late nights. One of the best olde-style RPGs that the Atari ST has.

Grab a copy of this brilliant RPG

for a hard drive or floppy.

An easy winner of the accolade of an AtariCrypt SMASH!!