C&VG


Treasures Of Tarmin

Categories: Review: Software
Publisher: Mattel
Machine: Intellivision

 
Published in Computer & Video Games #26

Treasures Of Tarmin

Dungeons & Dragons takes an evil twist in the Treasures Of Tarmin. Mattel's D&D games have proved a real hit with Intellivision owners and this third cartridge will be no exception.

The action takes place inside the tunnels and corridors of the Island of Tarmin.

Deep inside the fortress lays the priceless treasure - guarded for decades by the forces of evil.

The Treasures Of Tarmin

To recover the treasure, you will have to avoid being killed by giant ants, scorpions, snakes, dragons, ghouls and wraiths that inhabit the fortress.

A three dimensional simulation of movement is created as you move down the corridors with doors and walls looming in front of you. Similar to 3D maze games.

Finding your way around the corridors is one of the toughest parts of the game and you would do well to take a tip out of the Adventure gamer's book and keep a pen and paper by your side to note down certain key locations.

The Treasures Of Tarmin

As you travel you will find certain artifacts in the corridors which can help you against your enemies.

Only six of these can be held in your pack at one time so you must keep a constant check on the suitability of the objects for each stage of the game.

In order to attack, you need to be holding a magical item or weapon in your right hand. Sometimes these will vanish in battle, so it is wise to keep a few weapons in your pack.

The Treasures Of Tarmin

Each encounter with an enemy will cost you a certain number of points so you have to check your score before and after the fight.

There are some useful items scattered throughout the corridors, as well as all the ghouls, like the ladder - which you can use to climb through into the next level or the Eye Mural which enables you to see what lies ahead.

There is a lot to this game - both in terms of video games fun and intellectual challenge.

For those of you who already own D&D games it is a must but for those of you who don't it is also an excellent game in its own right.

Verdict

No better Christmas present for an Intellivision owner.