Having owned this since first playing AD&D in the late 1970s it is a bit of a nostalgia piece. This originally came in the Basic Box Set. It is a standard module with one cardboard cover (the inside is a map of the Caverns of Chaos) and the adventure booklet. Artwork has many Erol Otus (maybe all, not sure) illustrations and are spot on for classic AD&D modules.
The Bad: for gamers who really enjoy strong storylines or rich background to a module this is not for you. This is one of the most basic and early type modules. For the DM it is a gem for a beginner party, allowing a lot of flexiblity to insert storyline or guidance. Descriptions of places are straightforward and the creature interactions are basic. The map is adequate but not outstanding, very typical of early AD&D.
The Good: anyone who enjoys playing 1st edition and knows what to expect this is as original to the game as it gets, its basic and not plot heavy but the fun is the lack of need to stick to a story. For the DM it allows for the party to have to make decisions without a strong plot to drive them (good or bad). The setting can be adapted to any campaign and the game play is where the party will have memorable experiences, that is what the 1st edition was about I truly believe. A good DM can create a strong goal or quest and let the adventure unfold.
Is it the best module of the 1st edtion, no, is it a great introductory module that can be played on its own, yes. -- By Anonymous from Atlanta, GA USA on August 24, 2007 |
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