description The Wizard and the Princess Overview
The Wizard and the Princess is an early graphical adventure game released in 1980 by On-Line Systems, which later became Sierra On-Line. Designed by Ken and Roberta Williams, it was the company's second release and distinguished itself by combining static, high-resolution graphics with a traditional text parser. The plot follows a princess cursed by an evil wizard, requiring the player to solve puzzles across a fantasy map to restore her human form. Aimed at early home computer users, it holds historical significance as a foundational title in the evolution of the graphic adventure genre.
help The Wizard and the Princess FAQ
What is the story in The Wizard and the Princess?
You play a wandering adventurer in Serenia who tries to rescue Princess Priscilla, daughter of King George, from the wizard Harlin. The king offers half his kingdom to anyone who reaches Harlin's castle and brings her home. [Original manual](https://www.mocagh.org/sierra/wizprincess-alt2.pdf)
Does The Wizard and the Princess use text commands or point-and-click controls?
It uses a simple typed parser, with the player entering short commands while exploring static high-resolution scenes. Puzzles involve objects, travel, mazes, hazards, and survival decisions rather than mouse-driven interface actions. [Gameplay details](https://www.mobygames.com/game/1761/hi-res-adventure-2-the-wizard-and-the-princess/)
What platforms received The Wizard and the Princess?
The game first appeared on the Apple II in 1980, followed by Atari 8-bit and Commodore 64 versions. The IBM PC edition released in 1982 under the name Adventure in Serenia. [Platform history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wizard_and_the_Princess)
How is The Wizard and the Princess connected to King's Quest?
It was the second Hi-Res Adventure from Ken and Roberta Williams after Mystery House and helped establish ideas later associated with Sierra's King's Quest series. Both games use the kingdom of Serenia, although The Wizard and the Princess is not itself a King's Quest release. [Series history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wizard_and_the_Princess)
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