Digital Eclipse has remade the classic game Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord, originally released in 1981, with a full release set for May 23. The revamped edition will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, and PC through Steam and GOG. The game, which was launched for PC in Early Access in September 2023, offers a complete 3D reimagining of the original title by Sir-Tech.
Digital Eclipse’s Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord maintains the codebase of the original Apple II version while incorporating enhanced graphics and streamlined gameplay elements. The game stays true to its roots while stepping into modernity, offering players an updated experience with improvements in party management, navigation, spellcasting, and combat. Players can choose to view the vintage interface during gameplay, preserving the old soul of the Apple II original. Tasked by the mad overlord, players form a team of adventurers to venture into Trebor’s maze and retrieve the amulet seized by the nefarious wizard Werdna. Along the way, they must overcome formidable beasts, evade concealed traps, and navigate through the depths for the decisive confrontation with Werdna.
The PC version of Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord has received positive feedback during its Early Access phase since September 2023, with a “Very Positive” rating on Steam and 4 out of 5 stars on GOG. The game has undergone enhancements based on feedback from the gaming community, including visually stunning graphics and animations powered by Unreal Engine, adjustable gameplay options, an in-game Bestiary, a soundtrack by Winifred Philips, controller-friendly interface, and multilingual versions. This latest title builds upon the legacy of the original Wizardry game from 1981, known for emulating traditional tabletop role-playing experiences. Digital Eclipse has obtained the trademark and copyrights for Wizardry, creating a new title directly based on the classic Apple II game’s coding.
