RetroGamer84 and GamerFan are sitting in a cozy living room, the soft glow of a CRT television lighting up their faces as they prepare to dive into the epic world of Ultima IV: Quest of the Avatar on the Nintendo Entertainment System.
Today’s the day! We’re finally tackling Ultima IV: Quest of the Avatar. I’ve heard so much about its unique approach to RPGs. It’s not every day you play a game that centers around virtues and moral decisions instead of just hacking and slashing your way to the end.
Oh, I’m absolutely thrilled about this one. Richard Garriott, or Lord British as he’s known, really pushed the boundaries with this game. The idea of becoming the Avatar by adhering to the Eight Virtues rather than simply defeating a big bad villain is a game-changer. Plus, Origin Systems is known for their quality RPG experiences.
Right? Let’s dive right in. The introduction sets the stage so well. The world of Britannia feels alive and rich in lore. The opening with Lord British explaining the quest is captivating. The presentation may not be as high-tech as some of the arcades or other home computer versions, but the heart of Ultima IV is very much intact.
They navigate the character creation process, choosing answers that align them with the virtues.
I love how the character creation is done through answering moral dilemmas. It really makes you think about the kind of person you want to be in the game. I ended up as a Paladin, which aligns well with my desire to grasp valor and honor.
I’m a Druid! Compassion and justice speak volumes to me. Now, let’s explore.
As they delve into the game, they face various challenges and interact with NPCs.
I appreciate how every interaction feels meaningful. Typing in topics during conversations to find clues or receive wisdom from NPCs adds a layer of depth that’s rare in games from this era.
Yes, and the game actually discourages you from typical RPG behaviors like looting everything in sight or attacking everything that moves indiscriminately. You actually lose virtue points for such actions. It’s refreshing to have gameplay that encourages positive behaviors.
And the exploration is quite enjoyable. Walking through towns, using moongates for teleportation, and sailing ships or riding horses—there’s so much to do! The dungeons being in pseudo-3D first-person perspective is a nice touch too.
Hours pass as they progress through the game, collecting important items and facing numerous enemies.
I must say, the combat is engaging. It’s turn-based but has a good strategic element to it. Planning your moves and managing your party well is essential.
Agreed. And having companions join you along the way is great. It’s like building a team of friends to face the challenges together.
Eventually, they reach the concluding part of the game.
Spoiler alert for anyone who hasn’t finished: The final challenge in the Stygian Abyss is intense. Instead of a typical last boss, you have to answer questions about the Eight Virtues to reach the Codex of Ultimate Wisdom. It’s a fitting end for a game that’s focused on moral growth.
That’s right. And the sense of accomplishment when you finally become the Avatar, not just because you beat the game but because you upheld these virtues, is unparalleled. It’s a testament to thoughtful game design.
Let’s not forget some useful tips for our fellow gamers. Always keep track of your virtue points. Explore thoroughly to find all the essential items, and save regularly. Also, combining spells with reagents is crucial for some tough battles.
And don’t forget to visit the shrines and meditate on the mantras to gain deeper understanding of each virtue. It’s an essential part of your journey to becoming the Avatar.
Ultima IV: Quest of the Avatar on the NES definitely holds up. Despite some technical limitations and occasionally cumbersome controls, its innovative approach and rich storytelling make it a must-play for RPG enthusiasts.
I agree wholeheartedly. It’s a landmark title in RPG history and a wonderful experience overall. Here’s to hopefully more games that challenge us to be better, not just stronger.
You can also read the Villain View for Ultima IV here!
