Re: Tangled Tales

[Rubywand <rubywand@swbell.net>]

Alexander Siegfried writes ...
> 
> Hi there,
> 
> anyone remember the Apple II adventure/rpg game Tangled Tales from
> Origin, published in 1989?
>

     Yes. Tangle Tales is one of Origin's 'best ever' releases. In terms 
of scenario design, it is among the top adventures on any platform.

 
> Well, I am playing this awesome game again (stopped playing in 1993),
> and I have few questions concerning the first adventure (in which you
> must find a vial of adamanite dust for your master):
> 
> Do I have to kill the evil wizard Xavier? If yes, how can I kill him?
> And how can I open (unlock) the heavy chest in his room?
> 
> Any help would be appreciated.
> 
>

     It has been a long time. My notes for the first "Tale" do not 
specify exactly how the dust is obtained.

     What is clear is that the quest involves dealing with a number of 
personages and doing many trades. For example Idunn, the dryad gives you 
some seeds which you are supposed to use for planting an orchard so that 
you can get an apple or two for Sir Isaac. Someone, I'm pretty sure, 
wants some of Cookie's stew. There is something useful (gold?) in the 
goldfish pool.

     I do not remember whether it is necessary to zap Xavier. You will, 
eventually, need to make your way through his castle; and, one room on my 
map is labeled "Dust".

     Other stuff? ... There's a secret door in the Crystal Goblet's 
cellar. (Beware of ghouls!) The basement of the Three Bear's house is an 
interesting place. A smelly pool leads to a diamond mine. Goldilocks (the 
thief) is a great help. There is something about getting honey, possibly 
to lure the bears away.

     My notes on the second and third Tales are much better. (Cryptic 
hint for the second Tale: circus ticket-- Joshua-- barn key-- pirates-- 
fountain-- shell-- call turtle-- ... . And:  sand castle-- bottle-- 
genie-- zap imp-- magic carpet-- castle in clouds-- ... . )     

     Tangled Tales is loaded with interesting characters. One, Igmatz, is 
a demon hunter who continually wimps out in battles; but, just make sure 
he has the Holy Symbol (from the monestary) and he'll come through big 
time when you meet up with the chief demon. Then, there is Sif the 
fighter/pacifist, Maxwell the ex-superhero, Gnu-Gnu the builder/fixer, 
Skoakie the yeti-fighting snowman, ... .

     As you say, Tangled Tales is an "awesome game"!


Rubywand