The Red Crystal: The Seven Secrets of Life

About

The Red Crystal: The Seven Secrets of Life is a 1993 DOS RPG where you battle evil overlord Lexnor in the kingdom of Darkmoore. Choose from five character classes and explore a divided screen that shows your hero on the left and maps or stats on the right. The game lets you tackle dungeons, earn fame, and face enemies through combat or by attempting to bribe them before fights. A split screen adds local co-op support, letting two players share the adventure with separate viewports. This title stands out for its cooperative play and unconventional negotiation mechanic, which was rare in early 90s RPGs. While its pixelated visuals and turn-based combat feel dated, the option to team up offline or try diplomacy over violence gives it a quirky charm. Still, its DOS roots mean modern players will need emulation to experience it.