The Black Box What is The Return of Werdna?

The Return of Werdna, released in 1987 after several years in development, is the fourth scenario in the classic computer RPG Wizardry series. Roe R. Adams, III, headed the design of this classic. Adams is also know for making significant contributions to Ultima IV: The Quest of Avatar, arguably the greatest game ever made. Wizardry, developed by Robert Woodhead and Andrew Greenberg broke new ground in the gaming industry in 1981, with the first game, Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord. Players developed an adventuring party comprising of an array of character to tackle dungeons and complete quests. With revolutionary 3-D graphics and classic role-playing elements, the Wizardry series set new standards for CRPG's that defined the future of the genre. Two sequels, Knight of Diamonds and Legacy of Llylgamen, followed this success.

The Return of Werdna represented a departure from the series, as well as the rest of many games at the time of its release. Instead of controlling the typical heroic party, the player assumed the role of Werdna, a wizard who first made his appearance in Proving Grounds. Secondly, The Return of Werdna was among the first games that put the player in the shoes of an evil character bent on world domination. Finally, this game was designed specifically for experienced Wizardry gamers. The maps and puzzles are insanely difficult, and at the same time, finally balanced so as not to be completely frustrating. The game is so difficult, Wizardry players who complete this game can earn the title Wizardry Master. But an elite few will find the true ending to become Wizardry Grandmasters. Designers claimed that only 5% of all players would rightfully earn this title. As a result, The Return of Werdna is considered the most difficult game ever made.

In this scenario, the gamer controls Werdna, an evil archmage who at one time possessed the Mad Overlord Trebor's amulet. The mysterious amulet was purported to have unimaginable powers that would allow the owner to conquer the world. However, as described in Proving Grounds, a team of adventurers busted Werdna's head in and returned the amulet to Trebor. Werdna was banished to a ten-level maze, never allowed to see the light of day again, and forever enduring unending nightmares in an endless slumber. Werdna, however, awoke, and vowed that there was hell to pay. The player assists Werdna in getting this blood.

Wizardry has gone on to become among the most venerated CRPG still in production, along with Ultima and Might & Magic. The most recent Wizardry game, Wizardry 8, was released in 2001 and was met with favorable reviews.

General Tips in playing The Return of Werdna

1. Experience in the Wizardry series is a must. Having a general knowledge of the mechanics in the Wizardry series goes a long way. At the very least, you must have access to good notes from Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord. If you don't, you will never finish this game. Guaranteed!

2. Carry bait for thieves. In the early levels of the game, it is a good idea to carry some bait with you, in case a thief tries to lift some of your goods. If a thief steals an important item from your inventory, you'll have to go back to the level where you got the item. A weighty cube, which you will find later, will be a good anti-theft device when it is equipped and used.

3. Always pay for a hint from the Oracle of Mron. They usually won't make sense, but they're always good to ponder on.

4. All monsters are not created equal. Some are better than others. Always get monsters that can cast priest spells. Since Werdna is a mage, he won't be able to heal himself in the thick of things. Priests can heal Werdna in combat and will also cast the ever-important Milwa. Other monsters to consider are those that can do damage to more than one adventurer and those that can call for more brethren.

5. Save save save! The best time to save is when you've entered a new level. Another good time to save is when you are near a pentagram. That way, if you are badly injured after you reload, you can easily recharge at the pentagram. Also, try to make copies of your scenario disk (or file).