Sorcerer (video game)
| Industry | Video games |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1979 |
Key people | Steve Meretzky (designer of Sorcerer) |
| Products | Sorcerer (interactive fiction game) |
Sorcerer is an interactive fiction title created and released by Infocom in 1984, with design credited to Steve Meretzky. It serves as the second entry in the magic-centric "Enchanter trilogy," positioned after Enchanter and before Spellbreaker. This game represents Infocom's eleventh publication.
Plot
Following the player's triumph over Krill in Enchanter, they progress from Apprentice Enchanter to a full-fledged member of the Circle of Enchanters. The Circle's leader and guide, Belboz the Necromancer, becomes increasingly aloof and then vanishes without warning, leading the player to embark on a quest to uncover his whereabouts.
Gameplay
The use of potions involves drinking them, with each potion being consumable only once. The game is notable for featuring 70 distinct scenarios that can result in the player's demise, contributing to its depth and difficulty.
Release
The initial Sorcerer release was accompanied by several physical items designed to enrich the gaming experience:
- A fictional periodical titled Popular Enchanting, which includes an article profiling Belboz
- An "Infotater," a paper code wheel disguised as a creature fact sheet, essential for decoding certain in-game elements. Subsequent editions replaced this with a "Field Guide to the Creatures of Frobozz" pamphlet. Original Infotaters have become sought-after collectibles.
Reception
St.Game commended Sorcerer for its intricate and immersive world-building alongside demanding puzzles, comparing its magical journey to exotic explorations. PC Magazine rated it 10.5 out of 12, emphasizing its compelling introduction and preference for spellcasting over combat. Meanwhile, Zzap!64 pointed out the steep UK price (£45.30) and the necessity of a disk drive but described it as an engaging challenge featuring vivid descriptions and addictive gameplay.
External links
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