Christmas 1995…Santa finally came through for me…with the newly released Sony Playstation. A few days later, I was strolling the streets looking for my first ‘next-gen’ adventure. While browsing the very limited collection of games, one cover stuck out from the rest…A little wizard partnered with Death (riding a luggage chest) being chased by a giant turtle … I’ve always had a strange sense of humour and when I spotted the familiar name of Monty Python’s Eric Idle on the cover I happily parted company with my cash.
Discworld did not disappoint in any way. It looked fantastic! One thing I still love today is the hand drawn, unique styled backgrounds. Not only did they bring the magical world to life, but with a re-render I think they’d still look great against anything today.
The game’s charm didn’t stop with the design, which Pratchett had personally overseen. The voice talent was also incredible. Eric Idle, Jon Pertwee and Black Adder’s Tony Robinson were brilliant. It was a real shock for well known actors to step into the gaming world. I guess this was an early stage when games started using acting talent to enhance their characters. Whilst writing this short piece I also stumbled upon another name on the credits. Gavin and Stacey’s Rob Brydon, this must have been after his own adventure into shopping Television.
The story revolves around a dragon which terrorizes Ankh-Morpork, the largest city on the Discworld. The wizards of Unseen University are charged with the task of banishing the dragon. You play as Rincewind, the University’s worst wizard and thus you are also its most expendable…It is your quest to deal with the beast. The plot thickens as you discover that it has been summoned by an evil brotherhood…Rincewind has his work cut out.
Just like Rincewind, the gamer is equally challenged. Discworld is a hard, unforgiving game that adds its bizarre humour into puzzles…with an obscure logic. For example; at one point you need to acquire the magic staff of a high ranking wizard at the Unseen University, unfortunately he’s clutching it while in a restful slumber. So how do we get it? You soak a snake in starch to make it stiff OF COURSE…WHAT ELSE?! Then use your Indiana Jones style skills to swap it without him knowing.
The bulk of the events throughout the game escape me…it was 1995 when I last played it…but I do remember loving every minute. Besides, that’s the best time to take the game for another spin, when everything seems almost new and you can’t remember how to solve every puzzle. So I’m off to keep my appointment with death…he’s a keen poker player!
excellent review gary i loveed it that much i have just downloaded the pc version for my laptop to play it all over again