A Jungle Trek for the Wanna-Bes

Calling all tall, blond, muscular, macho, hero wanna-bes! Origin Systems has just the game for you. “Worlds of Ultima: The Savage Empire.” Come to the Valley of Eodon and rescue the woman of your dreams.

The game starts when you wake up in a strange hut. The village shaman has been caring for your injuries and is asking you about your current state of health. After passing a copy protection quiz that can be tougher than a high school geography test, you are free to gather supplies and helpers and make your way out into the lush jungle.

Leading your party of fellow adventurers, you struggle through the undergrowth, fighting prehistoric animals and other “very strange things.” As the leader, you are responsible for feeding and arming everyone.

Tougher to get used to is the interface through which players communicate with the game. The computer screen is divided into three parts. The main part of the screen switches between a communication tablet and a window to a map of the valley. Graphic details are small and often difficult to make out. Also, it doesn’t appear as if the characters actually move. Using the arrow keys or a mouse seems to shift the scenery around the players.

Another part of the screen includes statistics and inventory for each member of the party.

The story is a familiar one to any adventure gamer, but the game can be rather complicated. Read the manual thoroughly.

SAVAGE EMPIRE

Rating: ***

IBM & compatibles, Tandy; 640K RAM (expanded RAM required for music); hard drive recommended; List price: $59.95.

Computer games are rated on a five-star system, from one star for poor to five for excellent.