Ultima III: Exodus NES Box Art - A Game-Changer in the Series

The third installment of the legendary Ultima series, Ultima III: Exodus, is a game that marks a significant departure from its predecessors. Released for the NES, this role-playing game boasts seven distinct dungeons, each with its own unique personality. But what sets Exodus apart is that these dungeons now have a sense of meaning and purpose.

In my opinion, Ultima III: Exodus is a turning point in the series, thanks to two major changes that elevate it above its predecessors. The first notable change is the shift towards a more fantasy-oriented plot, which strips away some of the science fiction elements that were present in earlier games. This move gives the game a sense of seriousness and gravitas that resonates with me.

In comparison to Ultima II: Revenge of the Enchantress, Exodus feels much more developed and refined. It's like going from a rough draft to a polished final product. The game has everything thrown in, from character customization to exploration, making it a true 'wild romp.'

As someone who had previously played only the first two Ultima games, I was unsure what to expect when diving into Exodus. I decided to create an old-school fighter, thief, cleric, and wizard quartet, drawn inspiration from Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series (which I highly recommend). The game features 11 professions to choose from, including fighter, barbarian, lark (a synonym for bard), paladin, ranger, thief, illusionist, alchemist, wizard, druid, and cleric. Each profession has its own unique strengths and abilities, making character customization a key aspect of the gameplay experience.

Another interesting feature of Ultima III: Exodus is the ability to choose a race known as a Fuzzy, which was an unusual option in the series at the time. This decision likely influenced by the success of Sir-Tech's Wizardry games. Additionally, Exodus is the first Ultima game to feature a party of characters rather than a single protagonist, adding a new layer of depth to the gameplay.

Overall, Ultima III: Exodus is my favorite game in the series thus far, and it marks a significant improvement over its predecessors. If you're a fan of role-playing games or are looking for a classic gaming experience, Exodus is definitely worth checking out.

Ultima iii exodus nes box art