description Curses! Overview
Curses is a text-based interactive fiction game written by Graham Nelson and released in 1993. It holds historical significance as the first game developed using the Inform programming language, which subsequently became a standard tool in the medium. The story begins with the player searching through a family attic for a map of Paris, which expands into a sprawling, puzzle-heavy narrative spanning multiple historical eras. It targets enthusiasts of classic adventure game puzzles and complex parser design.
insights Ranking position
Curses! ranks #13 of 135 in the Text Adventure ranking, behind Slouching Towards Bedlam, ahead of Make It Good.
help Curses! FAQ
What is the historical significance of the text adventure game Curses?
Released in 1993, Curses holds historical significance as the very first game developed using the Inform programming language. Inform went on to become a standard development tool for the interactive fiction medium.
What is the plot of Curses by Graham Nelson?
The story begins with the player character searching their family's attic for a map of Paris, only to uncover a generations-old family curse. The game quickly transitions from a modern attic into a sprawling, time-traveling puzzle across multiple historical eras.
How difficult is Curses to play for modern gamers?
As a text-based interactive fiction game, it relies entirely on typed commands and lacks graphics, requiring significant patience. It is notoriously challenging, featuring complex puzzles that often require drawing maps or keeping meticulous notes.
Where can I play Graham Nelson's Curses today?
Because it was programmed in Inform, the game is freely available and easily playable in modern interactive fiction interpreters like Frotz or Gargoyle. It can be downloaded from the Interactive Fiction Archive.
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