Advanced Dungeons & Dragons: Pool of Radiance

About

Advanced Dungeons & Dragons Pool of Radiance is a turn-based strategy RPG where you build a party of heroes to retake the besieged city of Phlan. Playing as a customizable cast, you manage resources, navigate dungeon maps, and battle swarms of monsters in grid-based combat. Each decision affects your party's survival as you advance through the story, uncovering clues about the mysterious leader behind the invasion while chasing rumors of the magical Pool of Radiance. Released in 1988, this title pioneered the SSI-TSR collaboration that defined 90s CRPGs. Despite its age, it maintains a cult following for its balance of tactical depth and classic fantasy storytelling. With multiple vintage platforms and a single-player focus, it offers a stripped-down but rewarding experience for fans of methodical combat and character progression. Community archives often cite its challenge and replayability, though modern players should brace for dated visuals and clunky interface mechanics.

Storyline

Located on the northern shore of the Moonsea, the fabled city of Phlan has been overrun by monsters led by a mysterious leader. Your quest: uncover the identity of this evil force and rid Phlan of its scourge, restoring the city to its former glory. Along the way, you hope to find the legendary Pool of Radiance, said to glow with its own mystical power. Does it really give tremendous strength to the warrior who bathes in its magic waters? Or is that just an elfin myth? Before you meet the challenges ahead, you must create your characters and choose their races and battle skills. Then, set off on your glorious quest to drive out the monsters and let civilization reign once more!