Introduction

L ands of Lore is a role playing game (RPG) that was originally released for the PC way back in 1994! Since then it has won numerous awards and received much acclaim. At the time, it was one of the biggest and most detailed games available. It took full advantage of the new CD-ROM format with full voice digitization including voicing done by Patrick Stewart portraying King Richard.

The game interface is superbly done, by far the easiest and smoothest I have ever played. Many RPGs tend to have complicated interfaces that take hours of learning to master. But not here, simply click on the sword or magic symbol to use it. Other features include a compass, and a very nice auto-mapper which is a necessity in such a huge world.

Unlike some RPGs, Lands of Lore places more emphasis on adventure and less on the complexities of character and party selection. This allows you to be able to get into the game quickly without squabbling over the unnecessary details in some games, like the color of your pants.

Story

King Richard is the noble leader of the Lands. He resides in Gladstone Keep, the base of operations for all of the civilized areas. King Richard is worried about Scotia, a vile old hag who has recently acquired the Nether Mask, which is a magical item of extreme power and can now assume the shape of any living creature... or horribly unreal beast.

King Richard Scotia

In the opening sequence, we see Scotia find the Nether Mask and start her plunderous reign of terror. Upon finding this out, King Richard gathers together his armies and directs you to go see Roland at his manor and retrieve the Ruby of Truth.

When you finally make it back to Gladstone Keep, it is too late. The battle has resulted in the poisoning of the King. And now it is up to you to find the ingredients of an elixir that will save King Richard, while simultaneously learning as much as possible about the Nether Mask in the hopes of defeating Scotia.

Characters

The first thing you do after watching the opening sequence is choose a persona, the hero you will be throughout the game. There are four heroes to choose from. Each character has his own strengths and weaknesses. You should choose a hero that suits your playing and fighting styles. The heroes are measured by three categories, Magic, Protection, and Might. It should be noted that all heroes are equally capable of winning the game.

Magic 15

Protection 8

Might 5

Ak'shel is Dracoid. Since the Dracoid race is very good with magic, he will naturally be able to learn magic faster so he can cast the most powerful spells. This also means he will be lacking in fighting skills.

Magic 8

Protection 6

Might 8

Kieran is Huline, a half man, half cat race. He is the most agile and quick of all the heros. He will be able attack enemies a lot faster and dodge blows more than any of the others.

Magic 6

Protection 10

Might 15

Michael is the natural fighter. He will be able to do the most damage with weapons. However he is the least proficient with magic.

Magic 10

Protection 12

Might 10

Conrad is the best all around hero. His skills are pretty even. He can almost reach the apex of all the disciplines.

Links

Westwood Studios Home Page

The sequels to Lands of Lore

My Home Page!!!

Requirements

Since Lands of Lore was released in 1994, the requirements are minimal:

Intel 486/33 MHz (or compatable)
5MB Hard drive
2MB RAM
DOS 5.0 or Win 3.1/95
Sound (optional)

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This page was last modified on 5/4/00 at 4:27pm