Microsoft Adventure
| Company type | Video game |
|---|---|
| Industry | Interactive fiction |
| Founded | 1979 |
| Founder | Gordon Letwin |
| Products | Microsoft Adventure |
Microsoft Adventure is an interactive fiction title released in 1979 by Microsoft for the TRS-80 and Apple II, followed by a 1981 edition for the IBM PC. Created by Gordon Letwin of Softwin Associates, this game serves as a personal computer version of the PDP-10 mainframe classic Colossal Cave Adventure.
Gameplay
In Microsoft Adventure, players engage in a text-driven exploration experience, guiding their character through cave systems and gathering various treasures through straightforward command inputs. The game encompasses 130 distinct rooms, 15 treasures to find, 40 different items, and 12 challenging puzzles. It allows users to save progress for two separate sessions on diskette. Most elements from Colossal Cave Adventure are preserved, with the addition of some exclusive areas unique to this adaptation.
Release
The initial release occurred in 1979 under Microsoft's Consumer Products division for the TRS-80 and Apple II platforms. Subsequently, IBM included Microsoft Adventure as the only game in its inaugural software suite for the IBM Personal Computer. Distributed on a single-sided 5¼-inch floppy disk, the game required 32K of RAM and booted directly from the disk without relying on DOS. Along with DONKEY.BAS, it was among the earliest titles available on the IBM PC.
Reception
In The Space Gamer No. 49, Carrington Dixon reviewed Microsoft Adventure, pointing out that its cross-platform design somewhat limits showcasing any individual computer’s full capabilities but offers extensive hours of immersive cave exploration and treasure hunting. He emphasized that despite having only one scenario, its depth and complexity provide enduring enjoyment beyond more visually impressive games. Additionally, PC Magazine commended the title, recommending it as a timeless essential for any IBM PC gaming collection.