Play Pagan: Ultima Viii Online

Ultima VIII: Pagan is a role-playing game released in 1994 for MS-DOS. Developed and published by Origin Systems, this installment in the Ultima series is an action RPG with fantasy themes and puzzle elements. The game continues the story from the previous title, stranding the player's character, the Avatar, in a world called Pagan after being banished by the antagonist known as the Guardian. The perspective is presented from a bird's-eye view.

Players control the Avatar, whose primary objective is to find a way to escape Pagan and return to his home world. To achieve this, the character must confront four Titans that represent elemental forces. Progression involves exploring the hostile environment, engaging in combat, and solving various puzzles. The gameplay is more action-focused than earlier series entries, incorporating abilities like jumping and climbing to navigate the world and overcome obstacles. Combat is handled in real time, relying on player reflexes, and the game does not feature companion characters to assist in battles.

Character development uses a training-based system where attributes improve through repeated use of related actions, such as increasing strength by frequently using weapons. Magic is a central gameplay system, divided into four distinct schools aligned with the elements. To cast spells, players must gather specific reagents, and the casting process varies depending on the magical school. The game world allows for physical interaction with many objects, which can be picked up, moved, or dropped. Dialogue with non-player characters uses a system of selectable responses, though overall interaction is more limited compared to prior Ultima games, with a greater emphasis on solitary exploration and combat.