The NES Bard's Tale series has been a beloved part of many gamers' childhoods. Developed by Interplay Productions and released in 1987, the first game in the series was Bard's Tale, which introduced players to a medieval fantasy world filled with magic, monsters, and adventure. Over the years, the series has undergone numerous revisions and updates, but none as fascinating as the Japan-only release of Tales of the Unknown.
Tales of the Unknown is an enhanced version of Bard's Tale, tailored specifically for the Japanese market. Released in 1988, this version features improved graphics, new levels, and additional gameplay mechanics that set it apart from its Western counterpart. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Tales of the Unknown and explore how to play this classic game on Windows for free before buying the original.
The Original Game
Released in 1987, Bard's Tale was developed by Interplay Productions and published by SSI (Strategic Simulations, Inc.). The game was designed by Brian Froud, a renowned fantasy artist, and set in the world of Faerie. Players took on the role of a bard, tasked with exploring the town of Willowdale, completing quests, and battling monsters to rescue their kidnapped family members.
The game's original release on PC (MS-DOS) featured 16-color graphics, which were impressive at the time but pale compared to the Japan-only version. The Western release had some notable omissions, including an entirely different art style and missing levels.
Tales of the Unknown: The Japan-Exclusive Release
Tales of the Unknown is an enhanced version of Bard's Tale, specifically designed for the Japanese market. Released in 1988, this game builds upon the original with new graphics, additional levels, and improved gameplay mechanics.
One of the most notable features of Tales of the Unknown is its updated art style. The game boasts 32-color graphics, significantly better than the original release. This upgrade allowed for more intricate level designs, more detailed character models, and a more immersive overall experience.
In addition to the graphical improvements, Tales of the Unknown also includes new levels, quests, and gameplay mechanics that were not present in the Western version. These changes significantly enhance the game's replay value and make it a more engaging experience for players.
Playing Tales of the Unknown on Windows for Free
So, how can you play Tales of the Unknown on Windows for free before buying the original? The solution lies in a combination of old-school emulation and some clever hacking.
One option is to download an emulator that supports MS-DOS games, such as DOSBox. Once installed, you'll need to find a copy of Tales of the Unknown or Bard's Tale (the original game). You can try searching for ROMs online or downloading a fan-made port from various websites.
To get started:
- Download and install the emulator.
- Create a new virtual machine or set up an existing one with MS-DOS as the operating system.
- Load the ROM or download a fan-made port of Tales of the Unknown.
- Enjoy playing the game using your mouse or keyboard controls.
Please note that downloading ROMs without permission is considered piracy, and we don't encourage this practice. You can try purchasing the original game from online marketplaces like Amazon or eBay to own it legally and play it on a proper emulator.
Challenges and Limitations
Playing Tales of the Unknown on Windows for free comes with some challenges and limitations:
- ROM availability: Finding a copy of Tales of the Unknown or Bard's Tale is not always easy. Be cautious when searching online, as pirate copies may contain viruses or malware.
- Emulation issues: Even with proper emulation, you might encounter bugs or compatibility problems that can prevent the game from running smoothly.
Conclusion
Playing Tales of the Unknown on Windows for free before buying the original game is a great way to experience this beloved classic. With the right tools and knowledge, you can enjoy hours of engaging gameplay in the world of Faerie. While there are challenges and limitations to consider, the reward is well worth it.
So, go ahead and give it a try! Download the emulator, find a copy of Tales of the Unknown or Bard's Tale, and embark on an epic adventure that will leave you spellbound.