Phantasie

Stories of fantastic lands, which had to yield to the influence of demonic enemies, are almost everyday life in computer RPGs. It is no different in Phantas, a product of Strategic Simulations, Inc., this time before the vision of total annihilation stood the island of Gelnor, which was subordinated to a certain Nikademus and his dark band of knights, forged in armour. It's up to you whether a cruel ruler is finally defeated and the island regains its former glory.

The adventure begins with the creation of a team that will have a chance to survive in a world densely populated by a monster from hell. It can consist of up to six characters. There are five races to choose from (Man, Dwarf, Elven, Lowland and Gnome) and six professions (Thief, Monk, Scout, Warrior, Priest and Sorcerer). Each hero is described by several coefficients, which describe his combat value and the ability to wield magic. It is important that our guests also have a pleasant appeal (i.e. high charisma), as this will enable them to obtain weapons and spells at a lower price. The action starts in one of the eleven cities located on the island, namely Pelnor. Human settlements play the role of an enclave, which is not sneaked into by a monster - so they are completely safe. It is worse outside, where almost every step of the way you meet your enemies, regardless of whether they are beautiful meadows of Gelnor or dirty and squalid dungeons.

As befits a decent RPG game, Phantas has an interestingly implemented combat system, which can be visually associated with Space Invaders. Fortunately, it has nothing to do with killing the keyboard in a dexterity fury - the duel is divided into rounds, in which we give orders to our charges and wait for the opponent's response. It is worth paying attention to the extensive capabilities of the offensive - depending on the chosen strike, the attack may bring quite different results.

Phantasie is a product from 1987, so it is hard to expect it to impress with its audiovisual setting. Graphics, although not the worst for its time, is rather conventional. There is practically no sound, not counting a few sounds made with the help of PC Speaker. The game may seem depressing at first glance, but it becomes incredibly playable while playing.

The program has been continued, but only the third part (created by Westwood Studios - later creators of Eye of the Beholder) was re-released on PC.

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Last updated on August 14, 2015