Revolution’s Bold First Step
Brian from UK Gaming Network shines a spotlight on Lure of the Temptress, the breakout debut from Revolution Software. As the studio’s first release, Lure of the Temptress introduced players to a bold new take on point-and-click adventures, setting itself apart with a living, breathing world powered by the innovative Virtual Theatre system.
Unlike traditional adventure games of its era, Lure of the Temptress featured non-playable characters who roamed freely and followed their own schedules. This design allowed for unpredictable and emergent gameplay—players had to think on their feet, not just click through static conversations. The game’s detailed visuals, atmospheric soundtrack, and rich medieval narrative helped it stand out from the competition.
Innovation With a Few Bumps
Despite its groundbreaking ideas, Lure of the Temptress isn’t without flaws. Brian notes that the interface can feel a little clunky at times, especially when issuing commands to sidekick Ratpouch. Additionally, some players found the ending to be a bit rushed, leaving a few story threads dangling. Still, these are minor criticisms when weighed against the game’s ambition and charm.
The Virtual Theatre engine would later power Revolution’s future classics, including Beneath a Steel Sky and the Broken Sword series—both of which owe much to Lure of the Temptress for laying the groundwork.
A Lasting Legacy
More than 30 years after its release, Lure of the Temptress continues to be celebrated for its originality. For fans of thoughtful storytelling and meaningful world-building, it remains a must-play. As Brian concludes, it’s an essential piece of Revolution Software’s legacy and an unforgettable early gem in adventure gaming history.
