It seems as though Nintendo Switch is the best console to get FMV games; most launch on PC as well, but not all of them make it to other platforms. From classic to contemporary, there’s a lot to choose from. And here’s another one! Deathtrap Dungeon: The Interactive Video Adventure was first released for PC and mobile devices in 2020, and is now making its way to my favourite console.
Deathtrap Dungeon is based on the sixth book of the Fighting Fantasy series. Fighting Fantasy is a series of single-player adventure gamebooks written by Ian Livingstone. The book was first released in 1984, with a re-released in 2002. It is believed to be the most popular book in the series. Players are challenged to survive the Trial of Champions that takes place in the labyrinth of Fang, which is filled with fiendish traps and deadly creatures set by one devious Baron Sukumvit. This isn’t the first time Deathtrap Dungeon has been developed into a video game: there was a 1998 version by Asylum Studios (hence the added “The Interactive Video Adventure” in the title).
Related reading: For a look at a very contemporary FMV game, check out my review of Ten Dates.
Deathtrap Dungeon: The Interactive Video Adventure stars Eddie Marsan (Ray Donovan, Deadpool 2) as the narrator/guide through this faithful recreation of the beloved book. The game features two combat systems: the original mechanics used in the book and a more “modern” gaming style. Roll the dice, create your character, and get adventuring! FMV video games is a phenomenal medium to bring classic gamebooks to life, and I’m glad this one is seen as important enough to get another release on Nintendo Switch. The more, the merrier!
Ian Livingstone has nothing but good things to say about this recreation of his work, stating via a press release, “Deathtrap Dungeon has consistently been a fan favourite, so I am excited about the approach that Branching Narrative is taking in bringing my book to a new generation of players in a new format. Eddie Marsden is brilliant, and with the storytelling being an interactive rather than passive experience, this ain’t no Jackanory!”
Developed by Branching Narrative and Nellyvision Ltd., Deathtrap Dungeon: The Interactive Video Adventure will be released for Nintendo Switch in the second quarter of 2023 – so quite soon!
