I am not even sure if this is an official release or if the conversion was a fan project.Īn excellent version in all aspects. I wasn't able to run this version on an emulator and have no further info about it. The sound is acceptable for an early C64 game. The game makes good use of the C64's color palette, although the game feels still a bit too dark - a small stain of all the 8-bit homecomputer versions. OK, it lacks the smooth scrolling of the Apple II version, but it has many more monster pictures and they are animated as well. And considering all the 8-bit version, this is undoubtedly the best. Most people started their Bard's Tale experience with this version. I like this version and I consider it the best choice along with the Amiga version. The graphics are nice, gameplay is fast and even the sound, a weak point with many Atari ST games, is rather good this time. From what I have heard and seen on other sites its one of the best versions, very similar to the Amiga or Atari ST versions. I was only able to run this version via emulator up to the title screen thus I have no real experiences how this version fares. Better stay away from this version if you plan to play the game somewhat longer. On the other hand it lacks the animated monsters of the C64 version. Also this is the only 8-bit version that features semi-scrolling movement in the town. One of the better looking Apple II games although I personally don't like the color palette which tends to hurt my eyes.

Overall its a rather disappointing conversion. Loading times from disk are acceptable (don't even try to play it from cassette though) and the lack of RPGs for the Amstrad could make this game worthwhile for die-hard Amstrad fans. Monsters are not animated, the streets don't scroll and I know that the Amstrad is capable to display more colors. The following list should give you an overview of all existing versions and a short comment about the pros/cons of each version. The 8-bit homecomputers versions use a different layout than the more colorful 16-bit homecomputers versions.

Differences in the homecomputer versions occur in the used graphic sets/layout. The NES version is kinda different, mainly because they left out some or changed some elements. The gameplay, puzzles and dungeons of the homecomputer versions all resemble the shrined PC-Version. The Bard's Tale was released for numerous different homecomputer systems and also made an appearance on the NES. Bard's Tale - Different Bard's Tale Versions

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