DESCRIPTION

The third entry in SSI's Advanced Dungeons & Dragons computer role-playing series continues the Forgotten Realms adventuring that began with Pool of Radiance. Transfer characters from the second game, Curse of the Azure Bonds, or create your own party of six heroes to conquer a new threat. Miners from the remote town of New Verdigris have opened an ancient vault and let loose hordes of monsters throughout a maze of underground tunnels. You must prevent the creatures from reaching the surface, which means delving deep within the mines and surrounding arctic regions to stop the scourge of evil.

Fans of previous entries in the "Gold Box" series will be familiar with the play mechanics. Once again the action is primarily viewed from a first-person perspective, with individual panels displaying a list of your party members as well as description of key areas. Combat switches the screen to an overhead, isometric perspective that involves alternating turns with characters as they move, attack, flee, use items, or cast spells. Secret of the Silver Blades introduces the chance for enemies to surrender in combat, potentially shortening each encounter's duration. The game also includes a portal system that will either teleport your party to different areas within the mines or serve as a gateway back to town. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide