Battle Master
| Industry | Video game development and publishing |
|---|---|
| Founder | Mike Simpson, Simon Jones |
| Headquarters | United Kingdom |
| Products | Battle Master |
| Parent | Mirrorsoft |
Battle Master is a fantasy action-adventure title released in 1990, created by Mike Simpson and Simon Jones for Personal Software Services (PSS) and distributed by Mirrorsoft. The storyline centers on a hero who confronts malevolent forces to unify four kingdoms by gathering the rulers' crowns, thereby bringing peace to the realm.
Gameplay
Battle Master presents a squad-oriented action-adventure experience displayed from a top-down isometric perspective.
Players choose from four races—human, elf, dwarf, or orc—and select a class such as warrior, merchant, archer, or mage. Using an overworld map, players decide on destinations where they can engage in negotiations to buy equipment or enter combat areas. Success in battles depends on eliminating at least three-quarters of enemy units through melee weapons like swords and clubs or through ranged attacks involving arrows and magical spells.
Up to four companions can be enlisted, with options to arrange formations (row, column, wedge), assign positions (frontline or rear), and issue fundamental orders like rallying. New regions on the map become accessible as the player advances. The challenge intensifies over time, motivating players to obtain superior gear either by purchasing it or acquiring it from defeated foes.
Plot
Following extensive warfare among humans, elves, dwarves, and orcs that ravaged the land, a mysterious figure known as the Watcher appeared and took residence in the Tower. He withdrew magical energies from the world except for those contained within existing artifacts and cast a spell inducing indifference upon the four monarchs. The Watcher foretold: "From chaos arises order; from discord emerges harmony. A hero shall come from the south to unite the crowns. What was once divided will become whole. Thus begins a new era."
Reception
Reviews of Battle Master showed considerable variation, with ratings ranging from 58% in Zzap!64 to 83% in Amiga Format across platforms like Atari ST and Amiga. Amiga Format praised its graphics, intelligent design, and enduring gameplay appeal. Conversely, Zzap!64 criticized it for insufficient depth and tactical nuance. Despite some graphical critiques, ST Format commended its thrilling action sequences and inventive strategic elements.
External links
- Battle Master official website