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Return to Castle Coris - Review

Review by Denk

Ratings

Parser/Vocabulary
8
Atmosphere
8
Cruelty
Tough
Puzzles
9
Overall
9
Written:
24-10-2021
Last edited:
Platform:
PC

First I must say that I beta-tested this game. This game is very much in the style of the seven preceding episodes by the same author, starting with episode 1: The Axe of Kolt.

The game starts out underneath Castle Coris where you (Alaric) must investigate a mysterious tunnel. I can't say much without spoiling something, but it is in the usual style of the series.




Parser/Vocabulary (Rating: 8/10)

Like all the games in this series, the game has a VOCAB command. This was not uncommon in homegrown adventures in the UK in the 80s and early 90s but it was in contrast to American games, such as those by Infocom. Thus it wasn't a problem to "guess-the-verb" as long as you were aware of that feature. However, in this game and others by Larry Horsfield, the VOCAB command usually has this 'disclaimer' after listing a lot of useful verbs: "There might be a few more, but you will have to work those out for yourself!"

I suppose some words were omitted from VOCAB so that the game does not reveal any puzzles. As I have played many of Larry Horsfield's games, I was able to figure those out. If you haven't played his games before or PAW games from around 1990, it will take a little getting used to. I recommend you start with the first in the series and ask for help when needed. When you get the hang of it, you can enjoy the following games even more.

Atmosphere (Rating: 8/10)

A well written fantasy adventure without being verbose. Often a mysterious atmosphere with a bit of humor.

Cruelty (Rating: Tough)

If you find something, remember to bring it or the game could be "unwinnable". Luckily you can undo and save/restore as much as you like.

Puzzles (Rating: 9/10)

Many original puzzles and original places in addition to the usual "puzzle" of finding relevant objects by examining, searching, looking under etc.

Overall (Rating: 9/10)

If you like the previous episodes, this game does not disappoint.