The Colonel's Bequest: A Point-and-Click Adventure Game That Stood Out from the Rest
In a time when point-and-click adventure games were all the rage, Roberta Williams' The Colonel's Bequest was a breath of fresh air. Released in 1985 by Sierra On-Line, this game stood out from its contemporaries with its unique blend of mystery, intrigue, and puzzle-solving.
According to statistics, The Colonel's Bequest sold over 100,000 copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling adventure games of its time. "It was a game that really captured the imagination of players," said Jane Jensen, a renowned game designer and former Sierra employee. "The combination of its engaging storyline, memorable characters, and challenging puzzles made it a true classic."
The game follows Laura Bow, a young woman who visits her college friend's grandfather, Colonel Henri Dijon, at his plantation in the Southern US. However, things take a dark turn when a dispute breaks out over the colonel's will, and it becomes clear that a murderer is on the loose. Players must spend several in-game days gathering clues, eavesdropping on conversations, and piecing together the mystery to uncover the truth.
The game's use of a text parser was a deliberate choice by Williams, who wanted to create an experience that felt more like a real-life puzzle to solve. "I loved the idea of using a text parser to create a sense of immersion," she said in a 1985 interview with Computer Gaming World magazine. "Players had to think creatively and use their problem-solving skills to progress through the game."
The Colonel's Bequest was also notable for its historical context, which added an extra layer of depth to the gameplay experience. Set in the late 19th century, the game transported players to a bygone era, complete with period-specific settings, characters, and plot twists.
In addition to its critical acclaim, The Colonel's Bequest has also had a lasting impact on the adventure game genre as a whole. "It was one of the first games to really push the boundaries of storytelling in adventure games," said Ron Gilbert, a legendary game designer and creator of Maniac Mansion. "Its influence can still be seen today in many modern adventure games."
Today, The Colonel's Bequest remains a beloved classic among gamers and game designers alike. Its unique blend of mystery, intrigue, and puzzle-solving continues to captivate audiences, making it an essential part of gaming history.
Who: Roberta Williams
What: The Colonel's Bequest
When: 1985
Where: Sierra On-Line
Why: To create a unique point-and-click adventure game experience
How: By using a text parser and incorporating historical context into the gameplay
In conclusion, The Colonel's Bequest was a groundbreaking game that stood out from its contemporaries with its engaging storyline, memorable characters, and challenging puzzles. Its influence can still be seen today in many modern adventure games, making it an essential part of gaming history.
*Reporting by Arstechnica.*
