Ultima Underworld: The Stygian Abyss

"The grand daddy of all first-person action oriented RPGs!"

Like Morrowind? Or Daggerfall? Or maybe King's Field or even Deus Ex or System Shock? Those games all have roots in this game, Ultima Underworld. Ultima Underworld sets a standard by which all first-person RPGs should be compared to. Way back in its time it was very innovative both for the RPG genre and for the FPS genre. In fact, this concept was pretty much unheard of then.

I'm glad to have had the chance to play this gem, not only to experience the full Ultima story, but because it was great fun while it lasted. It's really too bad that there will never be a third Ultima Underworld, as it would be amazing with todays technology.

The story of Ultima Underworld takes place directly after Martian Dreams, and is the Avatar's third side quest.

I can't really find words to describe how much fun this game is. But I can detail the different aspects of it. What we have here is basically Ultima in first person with some major differences.

Ultima Underworld has its own unique spell casting system. No reagents this time around, instead you'll have to search for runes, little black blocks with a runic letters engraved on them. You carry these runes in a special magic bag, but lay them in a special case in a certain order depending on which spell you wish to cast. Runes required to cast the more powerful spells are rare and can be difficult to find.

There is a new skill system. Say you want to specialize in the use of a certain weapon, or you want to be a master wizard. That's what this is here for. When you gain levels you get some points that can be used to improve your ability in different areas, and these points are used by finding a shrine and chanting. But wait! First you have to search for scrolls or talk to people to learn the different mantras required to improve specific skills.

Battle...eep, there's a monster! Pull out your sword and slash by right clicking. Depending on where the cursor is you can do three different types of slashes. But wait, swords aren't your only choice. There's axes, wands, fists, spears, etc.

Ultima Underworld introduces the best invention in all of RPG history: the paper doll! Click and drag a piece of equipment over the doll and the image of your character on the status screen changes to show you wearing it. Gee I wish more games had this feature...

Oh yes, don't think that you'll just be hacking and slash monsters and casting fireballs. Oh no, there's plenty of puzzle solving, levitation spells, how do I reach that switch? There's many friendly characters to interact with, and that's where you get hints as to how to complete the game.

Poor you, you've been sent into the Stygian Abyss as punishment for your crime by a noble. What was the crime may you ask? The kidnapping of the noble's daughter! But there's only one problem with that. You've been framed, and the true kidnapper took her down into the Stygian Abyss itself. You have to either journey down into the very depths of the underworld to save her and prove your innocence or live out the rest of your life in this awful place.

Ultima Underworld's graphics are amazingly good for such an old game as is the music. Overall they do a good job of making you feel like you're a loner, and that you can't trust anyone. Especially when you get down into the lower levels of the Abyss.

Pros
* It's Ultima!
* Interesting Puzzles
* Wonderful atmosphere

Cons
* Some of the skills are useless
* The game is too short...only 8 levels in the Abyss

Overall - 7/10

Experience this game if at all possible. This is a piece of history.

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 10/30/02, Updated 10/30/02