Ultima II: The Revenge of the Enchantress

Fifty Shades Of White

In Ultima II, the world faces a threat from Minax, an evil sorceress whose influence spans both time and space. At the request of Lord British, we embark on a quest through multiple eras of Earth's history to ultimately end her reign of terror and restore peace to the troubled lands. So, grab a sword and let's go!

This was released shortly after the ST's 1985 launch and developed by Robert Heitman. Yes, he of Sierra On-Line games such as Leisure Suit Larry and King's Quest. Sadly, Ultima II is remembered as one of the worst games, mainly because of its reliance on GEM, which frustrated ye olde established fans. I imagine using the mouse-driven GUI probably seemed like a smart idea at the time. Surely, it's not all bad?

Of course, not. The game may have disappointed many, but it is still Ultima II. Therefore, it's a classic RPG that ST gamers need to play. Well, I don't want to be one of "those people" who criticise something without actually playing it. So, I've taken a break from my wonderful Ultima IV adventure to take a look at this old RPG. Sadly, the problems were quite significant, ranging from the peculiar to some serious bugs.

From my personal experience, these are the things that irk me:

• The GEM interface seems like a nice idea, but it's clunky and unnecessary. Essentially, it provides an immersion-busting experience - not what you want in a game like Ultima!
• The screen's background is glaringly white, which strains the eyes over time. Not only that, but your worldview is limited by a narrower window. It's almost like they didn't want the new ST to embarrass the 8-bit computers of the era. Makes you wonder whether it was intentional.
• Another issue is the lack of keyboard control; it was replaced by the mouse, which slows you down with all the repetitive clicking. But perhaps that is more a matter of personal taste?

I might be wrong, but Ultima II feels more like a strange 1985 experiment in GUI-driven design rather than a polished product for a new computer. Long story short, it simply doesn't feel like Ultima...

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Light at the end of the dungeon

Thanks to a beardy Atarian we all know and love, I've been playing with Ultima II "Special Edition", which is an upgrade by the French Gemdos Crew. Having already spent a lot of time with the original release, I found it simply too tempting not to download this newly patched version for a quick playtest!!

This release features a proper title screen, an attractive new tileset used in Ultima III, and perhaps best of all, the eye-popping white backgrounds have been banished. In their place is a darker palette that feels more in keeping with the Ultima series. The user interface has also received a bug-fixing makeover, and the addition of stunning background music breathes new life into this ancient adventure.

The effect of these changes is remarkable. What was once a bright and sterile-looking conversion suddenly feels more apt for an Ultima experience. The darker presentation gives the world its proper atmosphere, while the "new" graphics make exploration visually far more appealing. Sadly, one issue remains: character movement is still handled with the mouse rather than the keyboard, which is a shame I must admit.

Regardless, the French Gemdos Crew have done brilliantly. Ultima II genuinely feels like the game our Atari ST deserved back in 1985. I hope you guys check it out. If so, let me know in the comments... Enjoy!

• FGC has the download with a list of features, bug fixes, and lovely screenshots.
• Wanna check out more early ST games from 1985?
• Don't leave just yet! Scroll down for some of my lovely screenshots...

Your eyes will pop if you look at this image for too long.

Ahh, that's better. Darker, repurposed graphics, rich colours, bigger log, and more...

No disrespect for the original. After all, the ST was only a few months old...

...but the FGC version rocks. Come on, look at the difference. Wow!!

Thrust 0.5

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Thrusting into GEM

We've all played Firebird's excellent Thrust and other similar Gravitar shooters, and this version looks rather familiar, but it isn't exactly what you might expect. In fact, it's quite an obscure take on the genre and one I've never come across before. Thrust 0.5 was developed by Alexander Kirchner and feels more like an experimental concept of what might have been possible within a Thrusty GEM environment.

The gameplay is remarkably similar: we're the pilot of a triangular craft, navigating a cavern in search of a "sphere" to collect and lug back to the surface. Navigation requires precise control of direction and thrust to manage inertia. The keyboard controls are easy: the LEFT SHIFT and ALT key rotate our ship. The RIGHT SHIFT provides thrust, and the CONTROL key shoots your cannon. Yep, we have weaponry!

The cave has defences that can be blasted or avoided, so shoot your weapon in their direction. The turrets are easy to destroy, and that grants safe passage through to the end, where you can grab the sphere and leggit. Sadly, there are a couple of missing features: 1) there is no gravity pulling you downwards, which makes things a lot easier. 2) Wall collisions don't cause your ship to explode, but rather stop you dead.

Yep, although unfinished, this is an interesting version of Thrust, and it's charming to see a game like this running in GEM (especially if your computer has a Blitter). While it may not hold your attention for long, it’s well worth it for the novelty value alone. As you can probably tell, I enjoyed stumbling upon this one.

• Thrust 0.5 can be downloaded at Atarimania and Atari FTP Archive.
• There are many more "Gravitar" games right here.
• I wasn't sure about adding this, but it uses the Blitter, so it's enhanced. Thus added to the list.
• Yes, I found a GEM game that scrolls... Ho Ho Ho!!

ST Low is surprisingly fitting for this game, but there are no colours.

ST Medium is squashed, but I liked it once I used XControl to change the colours!

Of course, ST High is the best of all. Plus, you can see more of the level ahead!

Enhanced games - part 7

Ten and Counting

If I'm honest, I thought the previous article would have been the last, but I've found another 10 games! Now, I'm pretty much sure this will definitely be the last compilation, and you can check out each of the previous articles by clicking here(1), here(2), here(3), here(4), here(5), and here(6). If you don't enjoy clicking, I've grouped all seven parts for easy access. Okay, let's take a look at the latest batch…

Chu Chu Rocket is a Reservoir Gods 2001 conversion of Sega’s quirky puzzler, where the goal is to guide mice (aka ChuChus ) safely into rockets while keeping them clear of hungry space cats. This revolves around placing directional arrows on the playfield, herding them into the right paths while avoiding the dangers. It’s every bit as daft as it sounds, and supports both single and multiplayer. This is a faithful fan port with Blitter graphics and cool audio. It's possibly one of my favourite "puzzlers". It's brilliant, and the registered version is available at Atarimania.

Labotomy Invaders from a Small Bedroom in Galashiels is probably the world's daftest name! Once it begins, it's clear that a lot of demoscene influence went into this, with a presentation style that uses gorgeous effects and stereo DMA music. Sadly, the game doesn't really compare: it's basically a strange version of Space Invaders where you use the joystick to swish the screen across in the blind hope of aligning your crosshair with an Invader, before they reach the ground. For me, this game desperately required mouse control, as the joystick doesn't feel right at all. The directional movement feels rigid compared to the easy glide of a mouse, so it's a no from me. If you're still interested, then download it from Atari Legend.

Mad Paul Lay (yes, the Floyd The Droid man himself!!) released a Boulderdash game called Mad for Page 6, and made an upgraded version for the Atari STe in 1991. The original is a great game, but everything was on one screen, so the new version super-sizes everything and uses hardware scrolling. It's weird - I would have expected the same graphics, but within a larger maze. Of course, the gameplay remains the same as we're still tunnelling through the dirt, only this time we're not collecting diamonds! Watch out for falling rocks and don't get trapped. Sure, it looks naff, but it plays great. I really enjoyed this silly game! The download is available at Atarimania.

Rock Star Ate My Hamster is a tongue-in-cheek nod to the great 1980s tabloid headlines in a surprisingly addictive management-style game. We guide an unknown band to stardom by hiring oddball musicians, rehearsing to improve their playing, booking gigs, etc. The game runs on both computers, but is best on the STe because they (thank you) used the DMA hardware. This is a silly game with hilarious graphics and lots of "humour". It's almost like it offers the chance to relive your youth via the tabloids. The download is available at 8BitChip.

Sam in Monsters Land was released in 1995 by Alpha Visions, and you might remember another game of theirs, called Sam in Monsters Garden? This game also uses the Blitter and DMA for another silly outing as you collect items and stay clear of the cute baddies. This is old school gaming, and it's insane and totally stupid. I love it!! The download is available at Atarimania.

Skyduel was released in 1993 by Tim Chapman, and is a dogfighting/duel game where it's reds vs greens. You can choose from four crafts: Plane, Helicopter, Cannon, and Balloon - each with unique mechanics and abilities, such as dropping bombs or firing missiles. Adding to that are dynamic environmental factors, such as fluctuating wind, and random events like UFOs, lightning, and bombers. Don't play without checking out the options screen (STe options and more). I guarantee you will absolutely love this. The download is available at Atari Legend.

Sokoban - Bobby the Hippie Ghost is from 1995 by Inner Circuit Explorers, and is basically your classic Sokoban puzzler, but with a cheeky twist: instead of a warehouse guy, you’re a chilled-out ghost shifting rocks around to cover up peace signs. It’s a funny idea, but the gameplay itself stays true to the original and even uses the Blitter. The download is available at Atarimania.

Sokoban is another version I've never played before, but I don't know who to credit for this 1992 game. This game is a little weird, as we're an egg playing the same game format. Well, it looks like an egg from above lol. Sadly, it's French only, but that shouldn't stop the fun for ST Nutters who enjoy this type of game. The download is available at Atarimania.

Tiny Skweeks is a puzzler by Loriciel that involves guiding fuzzy creatures through a series of increasingly complex mazes. Players must navigate around obstacles, find the right path, and collect all the 'skweeks' to complete a level. The challenge lies in the strategic planning required to solve each puzzle, as a single wrong move can trap the player or make progress impossible. The STe can expect better colours and DMA music. The download is available at Atari Legend.

Tower Power is the surprising game of the entire bunch. Released in 1992 by Johnnie Chan, the game is played on a 10x10 grid, where up to four players move pieces, similar to chess. When one player's piece attempts to "take" another, the game shifts to a one-on-one combat sequence. The outcome of this mini-game determines who wins the square. Players can acquire gold to purchase different pieces, each with unique abilities, from a peasant to powerful creatures like a Wizard. The ultimate goal is either to eliminate all opponents or to occupy all four central squares. Ignore how it looks; this game is fantastic. The download is available at Atari Legend.

That was a great bunch of games to end this series. The quality of ChuChu Rocket and Tiny Skweeks is impressive. Also, Tower Power is amateur, but incredible. Of course, all titles have been added to our ever-growing Enhanced Games page. Have you had a look at that yet? Yes, you really should ;)

I hope you enjoyed this final compilation. Stay enhanced... Stay Atari STe!!

Chu Chu Rocket is an unassuming puzzler that is absolutely top-notch stuff.

Labotomy Invaders from a Small Bedroom in Galashiels? Erm, no.

Mad looks like trash, right? Everything is too big, but it's challenging and fun.

Rock Star Ate My Hamster has Kylie on the payroll. Use her wisely... ahem...

Sam in Monster's Land is absolutely INCREDIBLE!!

In Skyduel, ignore the graphics. Just play this game!!

Bobby the Hippie Ghost is a pretty Sokoban.

Sokoban, again! But this time, we're an egg... Yep, an egg...

Tiny Skweeks somehow reminds me of Jumping Jack'Son.

Don't look at its graphics, because Tower Power is actually superb!!

Enhanced games - part 6

Power of Ten

I've found another group of games that are enhanced for the Atari STe. Something tells me that this is the last compilation I'll be making, but don't worry, as you can still access the previous compilations by clicking here(1), here(2), here(3), here(4), and here(5). So let's check out the remaining bundle of STe joy…

Bio Hazard II is, oddly enough, the sequel to Bio Hazard, a game you may remember me raving over a while back? Well, check that out by clicking on this link, it's well worth it!! Anyhow, this 1996 sequel feels like a completely different game, because it is. Dungeon crawling is replaced by an overhead, grid-based combat system. Think of something like Space Crusade or Laser Squad. One/Two players control a squad of cyborgs, each with limited movement and action points per turn, engaging in strategic battles against alien foes. Blitter and DMA are utilised, and I love the intro. Marvellous game!! The registered version is available at Atarimania.

Daimakaimura is Sascha Springer's attempt to produce a more arcade-like version of Ghouls 'n Ghosts by fully using the STe hardware (H/W scrolling, Blitter, etc). Sadly, it's been a while since the last update, so I hope this project hasn't died, as it proves the power of the Atari STe in the hands of talent. The potential is staggering. Check out his thread at Atari-Forum.

GodPey was released in 2002 by Reservoir Gods, and it's another brain-mashing puzzler. The aim is to connect a continuous chain of diagonal lines across a grid by swapping adjacent tiles. Yes, it's bonkers and requires strategic planning and quick thinking. So I hated it lol. Seriously, it's brilliant, and the presentation is superb with excellent graphics and spanky music. Oh, and make sure you read the documentation! The download is available at Atarimania.

H.E.R.O. II is a 1997 RPG by Tony Greenwood - it stands for Human Extraction and Rescue Operation. This sequel is set in the Ex-Thorp Bio-Nuclear Complex, where you navigate hazardous environments to rescue survivors before it self-destructs. The puzzles are great, without being irritating. The graphics are superbly detailed in a comical way I love, and the sounds are absolutely fantastic. Miss this game at your peril. The download is available at Atarimania.

STEtris was released in 1998 by Oliver Heun! Inspired by the classic Tetris, this version enhances the original formula with vibrant visuals and dazzling music by that Bio Hazard fella, Les Greenhalgh. I love how it's bursting with colour, and you can tinker with many different options. There is even a two-player "battle" mode! The download is available at Atarimania.

Take It is a board game by Nicolas Challeil in 1994. Blacks vs Whites trying to take each other's pieces. It sounds boring, but it's anything but. Sadly, only for two players, but Nicolas has (somehow) used the Blitter and DMA audio. If you have a willing family member there, then check this one out. The download is available at Atarimania.

Tetris II Strikes Back is a 1996 Tetris game by Roman Dolezal that supports both single- and two-player modes, with nice STe aesthetics. Yep, it's Tetris, but at least it provides a competitive experience for two players. The download is available at Atarimania.

Trapped II was released in 1996 by Dan Jones, and out of all the Tron-like games I've played, I think I enjoyed this one the most. There is a range of options to choose from, and the DMA audio is fabulous. This is an excellent game!! The download is available at Atarimania.

Ultimate 'tris Game is (sigh) another Tetris game released by Sebald Loic in 1996. Supports one/two players with ultra-smooth movements and very unusual background audio. By now, I was getting sick of this damn genre, but oddly enough, I still liked it. Shockingly, enjoyable, so highly recommended by me! The download is available at Atarimania.

Word Up by Sven Dännart, released in 2022, is a "Sokoban" game in which we need to move letters to form the required word. Wow, doesn't it sound really boring? Well, it's actually a fantastic game and incredibly taxing. Gotta say, I like the clean-cut look and the audio is nice. If you enjoy a challenge, then waste no more time and get this. The download is available at Atarimania.

Another charming bunch of different games. I hope to fully feature HERO II and Bio Hazard II one day. They're games that demand much time, but are worth every second. Well, I have had tons of fun compiling this list, and it's interesting to see what enhanced goodies lurk within our library. Of course, all titles have been added to our ever-growing Enhanced Games page. Have you had a look at that yet? Yes, you really should ;)

I hope you enjoyed this sixth compilation. Stay enhanced... STay Atari STe!!

Bio Hazard II is tremendous for fans of turn-based strategies!!

Daimakaimura! Like, wow, I wish I could play this! (screenshot from rolling demo)

Connect those horizontal lines for points in GodPey. Fantastic music by Malcom Grant.

One of the best Atari ST games you can choose to play. So, be wise and play HERO II.

It's STEtris - with loads of extras, and aesthetically quite pleasing.

Out of all the games listed here, this is the one that shocked me the most!

Tetris II Strikes Back was never gonna make a nice screenshot, so I played silly!

It might not look much, but you shouldn't miss playing this 'Tron' game.

Another damn Tetris game, I know!! But, hold on - this is actually really good!

Move the blocks to form a word. How hard can Word Up be? (lol)

Ultima IV: Quest of the Avatar

The adventure continues

It's been a couple of weeks since I jumped into the bewitching world of Ultima IV, and you probably guessed that I'm addicted to this ancient role-player. As a complete newcomer to Britannia, I find the game constantly surprises me with its depth, freedom to explore, silly people, monstrous battles, and the sheer wonder of discovering new places. This is a game that has proven itself beyond any expectation I had.

If you're one of those people not on X, you've probably missed my progress updates. Well, this little article shows where I'm up to and what I have experienced so far. I hope you enjoy reading it.

My early wanderings

After poking around Castle Britannia and the nearby town of Britain, I've been venturing out further. This was a big step for me, as I gradually moved farther from "safety". This place has more than its fair share of monsters roaming the lands (and seas!). So, I've been making good use of the "H" key to Hole up and camp - ie, rest/recovery. It saves time and worry compared to desperately searching for the next town to recuperate in safely. It's not foolproof, though - sometimes something nasty interrupts to ambush your rest.

I've done a fair bit of grinding for XP and gold to upgrade weapons, armour, and supplies. However, only by returning to see Lord British in person did I receive the levelling I was owed. Also, recruiting companions took time to grasp. I figured anyone looking handy with a sword might be persuaded to join. Sadly, no one ever agreed to join me. It was only by chance that I later found a willing couple - Iolo and Jaana. Their ranged attacks make combat more varied and less melee-centred than when I was alone.

It's not all about fighting hideous monsters; this is a game of exploration and clue-gathering:

It feels silly to admit communication, as games like this thrive on it. Ultima IV feels different, and you won't get anywhere without a chinwag. When talking to someone, you may ask their name, health, or job. But it's how you respond to their reply that matters, as they lay the foundation for clues. For example, when in Yew, someone may mention 'justice', so you respond with that word to dig for information. I've learned that whatever noun they use, that is how to investigate.

Of course, it also pays to search thoroughly everywhere you go. For example, near Britain's Manor (ie, the Inn), there is an odd-looking corner. It appears to hold no value, yet it is rather peculiar in that it leads nowhere. I noticed it straight away, but thought nothing more until I happened to stay over one night. Then I decided to use Search and uncovered a hidden rune!!

Since then, I've taken this approach with all towns, only to discover they often have secret passageways (Doom style via a hidden part of a wall). They might not always lead to a Rune, but often to an inaccessible area that may hold access to a new store, treasure chests, or simply a location with new people that you need to speak to. Lesson: search everywhere.

Tides of Discovery

After several hours, I hit a major milestone: during my earlier travels, I'd noticed many areas were unreachable by land, and figured I needed to purchase a ship. Confusingly, no shop sold them, but I'd seen them in the intro, so I knew it was an option. While near the town of Yew, I spotted one, but that experience didn't go well, as the ship stayed out of boarding range and peppered me with cannon fire. After dying and restoring my saved game, I realised the water near the shore must have been too shallow. That got me thinking...

I went on a walk to see if the island had coastal areas with deeper waters along the shoreline. Turns out that there are many places that do, and a ship appeared. Uncanny, right? Well, I won and took charge of their vessel. Sailing around Britannia is fantastic and reveals parts I had previously noticed were off-limits. Of course, the open water brings new dangers. I've already had some memorable scrapes with Giant Squids, Serpents, and other ships. In fact, I've amassed three ships, which I've left idle around the southern islands.

Not all good

Ultima IV rewards patience and curiosity; however, I'm still reminded how new I am to the game, as I've noticed something called Moongates appearing in certain locations. I haven't sussed out how they work with the moon phases, but stepping through one for the first time (after a quick save) whisked me into Magincia. This is a town full of "friendly" monsters, with some drinking in the pub and shopping! Sadly, the shops wouldn't serve me, so they weren't that friendly, I guess. I left here a bit bewildered but very much alive.

Also, I know very little about the Runes I've collected, although I've noticed that each town seems to revolve around a particular Virtue. This is where the corresponding Rune comes into play, as they are hidden within the boundary of each town. Quite what I'm supposed to do with these Runes remains a mystery. My next step is to spend more time talking to the townsfolk and paying closer attention to what they say.

Finally, I've had an early glimpse into a dungeon, which I found by sheer luck while mountain climbing in the north. Upon entering, I found everything dark, so I panicked and scrambled for the documentation. Hitting the "I" key to ignite my one and only torch did the trick, revealing the dungeon in all its glory. How this plays into the adventure, I don't know, but it's presented in first-person and looks stunning.

Confusion abounds, but try to tell me this isn't a fascinating game, and I'll come over and slap you.

Follow me

I'll keep posting updates and progress photos on X as I go (link is filtered for "Ultima IV"). Feel free to follow me (but don't be a knob and tell me where to go or what to do. No spoilers, please, as I'm discovering Ultima IV for myself, albeit very slowly). Hey, just sit back and enjoy the journey. I know I am.

Since beginning this article, I've increased to level 5 and found a mage called Mariah. This might be the start of something special, with someone at the party who has magical abilities. Sadly, the only magic I currently know is how to cure and heal. Very handy but hardly offensive, so I experimented by mixing reagents. By sheer guesswork, I learned how to make fireballs by mixing reagents Sulfur Ash and Black Pearl.

Onward I go, Avatar!

Cuppa tea and Ultima IV... Living the dream.

Sometimes you ask a silly question, and you get a silly response :)

Get too close to something in the water, and the fight is on.

This shocked me big time! I never expected a first-person dungeon to look this good!

Yes, I have a ship, so I went exploring. By sheer luck, I found another Moongate!!