Retrospective: Knight Lore

Except for the very, very beginning genuine originality in videogames has always been distinctly lacking. So when we say Knight Lore - sequel to Sabre Wulf and Underwurlde and winner of the Golden Joystick Award's Game of Show back in 1984(!) - was the pioneer of 3D gaming... well that's saying something.
http://cdn.medialib.computerandvideo...mb_wide620.jpgNo, not proper 3D granted, but rather isometric 3D presented through a series of flip-screen rooms. For gamers used to the 2D left-to-right level trotting pedalled by the likes of Pitfall, the titular castle of Knight Lore was a revelation. Platforming melded with lateral thinking, combat and item collecting (and even snazzy Werewulf transformations - yep, this game actually boasted day and night cycles!) to create a dizzying concoction that wiped the floor with its contemporaries.Tasked with curing yourself of lycanthropy, you'll need to snag a cauldron-load of quirky ingredients hidden throughout the citadel. Hero Sabreman will also have to negotiate over 100 rooms - best pack pen and pad; there weren't any minimaps in those days - within the brutal time limit of 40 (game) days and nights. We still dig that whole: 'drop you in trouble and let you figure your way out of it' vibe of olde titles like this; unlike today you really had to scour the manual for clues back in '84.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...e-knight-lore/