Drakkhen was a computer game developed by Draconian for the PC. Created by French developers, it was released in the United States by MicroProse in 1990. Drakkhen was notable for being among the first computer role-playing games to feature a three-dimensional playing field, (though it did not utilize a "real" 3D game engine, it simulated one using character-scaling algorithms), including an animated day-night cycle and the ability to wander freely about the game world.
As for the game world of Drakkhen, it was large and curiously desolate. A large rectangular continent was divided into four regions, each ruled by two monarchs, and much of the game was spent travelling between the castles of these on various political missions. The storyline lacked the complexity and pre-scripted dialogue commonly found in role-playing games of the time, and the plot was fairly obscure, a fact best explained by spotty translation. Drakkhen also featured an engaging music soundtrack and a very strange palette of character noises, many of which sounded more like belching, chittering or inarticulate rumbling than actual speech.
Its limitations notwithstanding, Drakkhen attracted a small cult following thanks to its innovative approach and eerie vibe.
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Last updated: 08-22-2005 11:35:54
