Pools of Darkness

December 31, 1992(33 years ago)·Full Release

SSI (Strategic Simulations, Inc.)

★

7.9

7 user ratings

★

7.9

7 critic ratings

★★★★★★★★★★

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VOTES

Genres: Role-playing (RPG), Adventure

Platforms:DOS Amiga

Fantasy Educational Single player First person Third person Bird view / Isometric Gold BoxESRB

Summary

For a decade, your noble company has battled Evil in every corner of the Realms where it dared to rise. Lord Bane has been struck down repeatedly by your strength, and a newfound peace now blankets the land. Now, your journey returns to its beginning—the bustling city of Phlan. As your vessel approaches the shore, the towering spires of Phlan come into view, where once only rubble remained. The once-overrun slums and crumbling streets have transformed into thriving neighborhoods. Ships drift gently in the harbor, guarded by the vigilant presence of Sokal Keep. Much of this renewal and stability stems from your triumph over Tyranthraxus so long ago. As the sail is lowered and your crew makes ready to land, you ponder—where can adventure be found in such a time of peace?

Storyline

The group's mission is to overcome Bane's top commanders: Thorne, an ancient red dragon; Kalistes, a Tanar'ri Marilith; and Tanetal, a Tanar'ri Glabrezu, and to obtain the powerful artifacts in their possession. The ultimate aim is to reach Bane's Land and confront his final and most formidable lieutenant, Gothmenes, a Tanar'ri Balor. Each of these lieutenants resides in a separate dimension, accessible through magical gateways called Pools of Darkness. However, traversing these portals can result in the permanent loss of many of the party's items. To protect their gear, the group can store it in a secure vault. Likewise, any objects obtained in these dimensions will be lost upon returning to the main realms. Exceptions include the Vorpal Long Sword, magical rings, and composite bows, which are safe from destruction. Numerous optional quests are also available, offering the party valuable experience and equipment, particularly in the early stages. Hidden regions exist across the overworlds, accessible by exploring open fields and discovering secret entrances. These hidden areas are present in all the different realms. The essential quests include: Clearing the Steading near Dragonhorn's Gap, which grants access to the Dragon's Aerie. Clearing the Dragon's Aerie, which opens the path to Thorne's Cave through a Pool of Darkness. Clearing Thorne's Cave, which rewards the party with the Horn of Doom. Clearing the drow caves and Kalistes' Temple beneath Zhentil Keep, which leads to Kalistes' Land via a Pool of Darkness. Clearing Kalistes' Parlor, which grants the party the Crystal Ring. Clearing the red tower of Marcus, which opens the way to Moander's body through a Pool of Darkness. Clearing the heart of Moander, where Tanetal dwells, which rewards the party with the Talisman of Bane. Clearing Arcam's Cave beneath Mulmaster, which opens the path to Bane's Land via a Pool of Darkness. Finally, clearing Bane's Land and defeating Gothmenes, a Tanar'ri Balor, who faces off against Elminster. In addition, there are various side quests and notable figures throughout the realm. For instance, Elminster is always present to assist the party by maintaining the dimensional portals at each Pool of Darkness. The lost princess Alusair Nacacia will request the party's help in battling Rakshasas in Myth Drannor. After completing the final quest, the party can choose to end their adventure or take on an additional challenge: a perilous dungeon filled with enemies and traps known as "Dave's Challenge."