Lancelot (video game)

Level 9 Computing

Industry	Video game development
Founded	1980s
Founder	Peter Austin
Products	Text-based adventure games, including Lancelot

Lancelot is a text-based adventure released in 1988 by Level 9, incorporating static images on select systems. The narrative follows Sir Lancelot's mission to locate the Holy Grail.

Plot

Crafted by Peter Austin with in-game narrative contributions from Christina Erskine and Peter McBride, Lancelot is an adaptation of Sir Thomas Malory's Le Morte d'Arthur. Similar to other Level 9 productions like Scapeghost, the gameplay is segmented into three distinct phases. The storyline revolves around Lancelot’s ambition to become a Knight of the Round Table and ultimately secure the Holy Grail. The adventure unfolds across iconic Arthurian locations such as Camelot, Tintagel, and Winchester, featuring renowned figures including Merlin, King Arthur, Guenever, and Lancelot’s son Galahad. Throughout his journey, Lancelot is accompanied by various knights and ladies who can be directed through the game’s parser system. Notable companions include the Damosel Maledisant, Sir Bors de Ganis, Sir Ector de Maris, and Sir Tristram.

The opening trial involves a duel with the Black Knight, who discloses his true identity as King Arthur if spared. Arthur then extends an invitation for Lancelot to join his order. Following his knighting, Lancelot seeks to win Guenever’s favor by rescuing imprisoned knights—Sir Meliot, Sir Lamorak, Sir Bors, and Sir Gawain—held captive by rebellious lords. Combat during this phase is limited to defensive actions to demonstrate honor. The concluding segment sees Lancelot and Sir Galahad departing from Castle Vagon in pursuit of the Holy Grail.

Reception

• Sinclair User: "... maintains the consistently high quality expected from Level 9..."
• The Micro User: "For me, Lancelot simply has to be Game of the Year."