![Dungeon Master [Model SHVC-V2] screenshot](images/game/61259_2.png "Dungeon Master [Model SHVC-V2]")
Dungeon Master © 1991 Victor Musical Industries, Incorporated.
This port of the seminal 1987 FTL classic brought the definitive real-time 3D dungeon crawling experience to Japanese consoles. Players control an apprentice wizard named Theron, tasked with resurrecting four champions from the Hall of Champions and navigating a treacherous dungeon to retrieve the Firestaff and defeat the Dark Lord (Chaos). The game is renowned for its immersive first-person perspective, innovative rune-based magic system, and a progression model based on practical skill application rather than traditional experience points.
GAME ID: SHVC-V2
Released on December 20, 1991 in Japan at a retail price of 9,800 JPY.
Genre-Defining Legacy: The original Dungeon Master (FTL Games) is widely credited with establishing the real-time dungeon crawler genre. Its transition to the Super Famicom was a significant technical undertaking, as the game’s mouse-driven interface and complex inventory management had to be mapped to the standard controller.
Port Adjustments: This Super Famicom version introduces three key departures from the Atari ST original:
- Ambient Audio: Continuous music and sound effects play during exploration, enhancing the atmosphere compared to the more sparse audio of the original.
- Visual Refinements: Several monster sprites were updated or redesigned to take advantage of the Super Famicom’s color palette.
- Controller Optimization: The interface was completely overhauled to allow players to manage complex inventory, combat, and spellcasting entirely via the D-pad and controller buttons.
Unique Progression: The game eschews traditional "leveling up." Instead, characters improve through direct application of skills. Whether it is swinging a weapon, casting a spell, or performing a ninja-style action, the more a champion practices a specific ability, the more proficient they become.
Export releases:
[US] Dungeon Master [Model SNS-V2-USA]
[UK] Dungeon Master [Model SNSP-V2-UKV]