Icarus: Sanctuary of the Gods

About

Icarus: Sanctuary of the Gods is a 1998 RPG that mixes turn-based combat with grid-based movement. You control eight characters, each with classes, stats, and skills they level up over time. Movement depends on speed attributes, letting you position units to attack, cast spells, or use items. Between battles you explore towns, talk to NPCs, and manage gear in an inventory system. Missions unfold in a linear story where quests and treasure chests earn currency to buy better equipment. The game balances tactical planning with character development as you follow a revenge-driven plot. The story revolves around Dreus, a mercenary hunting an evil wizard tied to a divine conflict. Players navigate a mythic world where gods war over Icarus, forcing heroes to journey into the underworld to stop an apocalyptic plan. With its 3/4 view graphics and methodical gameplay, it appeals to fans of classic RPGs with deep stat systems. Though niche, its blend of strategy and narrative has earned it a small but dedicated following among retro gamers.

Storyline

After deities fought over the land Icarus, a god named Tetheus won the battle and subsequently banished a god named Ercanet from Icarus. Ercanet, in revenge against the humans, who sided with Tetheus, has spread his vengeance across the land. The player plays as Dreus, a Coshark Mercenary who, after being saved by one of his mercenary comrades, vows revenge on an evil wizard, who is a henchmen of Ercanet who wiped out all of the other mercenaries. He and his fiancée head out to exact that revenge and rebuild the Coshark Mercenaries. Eventually, Dreus uncovers Ercanet's plan and has to travel to the underworld to save the world.