Throwback Thursday: Pool of Radiance

Who among you recalls walking the cobblestone streets of Phlan and cleaning out the foul beasts that plagued it? In 1988 the first D&D computer game was released. TSR licensed the game rules and brand to Strategic Simulations, Inc. (SSI). It was available for Amiga, Apple II, C64, MS-DOS, Apple Macintosh, NES, PC-9800. The former names alone should be a throwback!

Among my friends and circle of gamers in the late 80s we all logged countless hours playing Pool of Radiance. Since it was part of the Gold Box series it was designed with the AD&D game as a foundation. It had official classes, races and alignments and even Vancian magic mechanics. I remember being so excited when I was given the game as a birthday present.  I really enjoyed the idea of having a long term quest in saving the city. It made me feel like I was playing in a little campaign world as opposed to mindless dungeon slogging.

Most importantly Pool of Radiance allowed me to play D&D in some form in-between weekend gatherings. There was no MMORPGs or social media apps in 1988. No my fine adventurer beyond a table top delve there was not many options. The Gold Box series helped to fill that void with Pool of Radiance being the best in my opinion. It was just immersive enough to keep bringing you back!

What could possibly go wrong while we sit around the fire?