Game Overview
Released in 1982 and developed by Automated Simulations, Inc., Temple of Apshai is a classic role-playing video game that invites players into a dungeon crawling experience filled with intriguing challenges and hidden secrets. This game is a significant stepping stone in the development of RPGs due to its innovative elements for its time.
Gameplay and Features
The game features a turn-based combat system and a rich, descriptive text interface that narrates the player’s exploration and discoveries within the temple. Players navigate through various rooms, engaging foes and collecting treasures, all while managing their character’s health and resources. Each room in the temple is meticulously described, providing a rich background and enhancing the player’s immersion.
Historical Significance
Temple of Apshai is noteworthy for being among the earliest games to blend text-based storytelling with graphical gameplay—a feature that has influenced many subsequent RPGs. It was originally developed for the TRS-80 and other early personal computers, making it accessible to a wide audience and setting a precedent for future RPG developments.
Development and Legacy
Originally developed by Automated Simulations, Inc., the game laid the groundwork for both this company and the genre as a whole, as they transitioned into developing more sophisticated games under the name Epyx. This game is part of the ‘Dunjonquest’ series, which continued to expand on the formula it introduced.
