The US edition of PC Gamer magazine awarded The Temple of Elemental Evil a commendable 79% back in 2003, yet it was not without its share of criticisms. Players encountered a few glaring issues, such as NPC companions hoarding excessive amounts of loot, leading to encumbrance, poor pathfinding mechanics, and a host of bugs that detracted from what was otherwise a promising adventure. My own experience mirrored these sentiments, as the game’s ambitious promise of a faithful digital adaptation of D&D’s 3.5 ruleset was often overshadowed by frustrating technical glitches and peculiar design choices.
Rediscovering a Classic
Now available on Steam, this re-release of The Temple of Elemental Evil is intriguing. It serves as a bridge between the classic “gold box” RPGs, characterized by hand-drawn maps and physical journals, and the more contemporary, user-friendly experiences offered by modern developers like Larian Studios. This title stands out as a uniquely faithful representation of a lesser-explored aspect of D&D, not necessarily better or worse than its predecessors or successors, but distinctly different.
Engaging with the game reveals its deep-rooted D&D essence. Even opting for the simplest combat choice—”Please, I just want to hit whatever’s standing in front of me”—unfolds into at least five tactical options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Movement is a strategic consideration, requiring players to decide between walking or running, or even taking a cautious five-foot step. The interplay of skills, such as a party member’s tumble ability against an enemy’s attack of opportunity, adds layers of complexity to encounters.
As I navigate through corridors filled with adversaries, I can choose to Ready or Approach, preparing for the impending clash. The satisfaction of executing a successful trip attack, leaving an opponent vulnerable to follow-up strikes, enhances the tactical depth of the gameplay. This experience becomes increasingly rewarding as characters evolve, presenting opportunities to utilize unique skills that are seldom found in other PC RPGs.
This new release is not merely a remake or remaster; it feels more like a thoughtful repair. The game has been polished and presented in a manner that allows its inherent strengths to shine through. For those who may still have the original CDs collecting dust, this version offers a curated collection of improvements that preserve the charm and distinctiveness of the original ruleset. For newcomers eager for more D&D adventures after exploring the latest titles, the extensive array of enhancements makes this RPG feel refreshingly innovative within the beloved franchise.
After a long wait, the temple is finally open for exploration, inviting both veterans and newcomers to experience its unique offerings.