Embark on an action-adventure through the gothic land of Gallowmere as Sir Daniel Fortesque, a skeletal knight resurrected centuries after his supposed heroic demise. Your mission is to thwart the sorcerer Zarok's plans to conquer the kingdom with his undead legions. This main game offers a blend of platforming, puzzle-solving, and hack-and-slash combat across a variety of distinct levels.

The Story of a Skeletal Champion

The narrative centers on Sir Daniel Fortesque, whose legend as the slayer of Zarok was fabricated to cover his ignominious death early in battle. A century later, Zarok's return and dark magic inadvertently revive Dan as a skeletal corpse. Seizing this unexpected second chance, Dan sets out to defeat Zarok, save Gallowmere, and finally earn his place as a true hero. The journey involves confronting Zarok's forces and uncovering the truth of his past.

Core Gameplay Mechanics

Gameplay involves navigating diverse environments, engaging in combat, and solving environmental puzzles. Sir Daniel wields an arsenal of weapons, including melee options like swords and clubs, and ranged choices such as crossbows. Many weapons can be charged for enhanced power, and some, like the club, possess utility for accessing new areas. In dire situations, Dan can detach his own arm for both close-quarters and ranged attacks.

Defense is managed through a shield, which can block attacks but has limited durability. Dan's health is represented by a single bar, and hazards like drowning or falls from great heights result in instant failure. Players can increase Dan's maximum health by finding Life Bottles and replenish his health with Life Vials and Life Fountains.

The Path to True Heroism: Chalices and Rewards

A central gameplay element is the collection of Chalice of Souls, hidden within each level and typically filled by defeating enemies. Successfully completing a level with a Chalice grants access to the Hall of Heroes, where legendary figures offer rewards, including new weapons. Gathering all the Chalices unlocks the game's true ending.

What Makes This Game Unique?

The game's distinctive appeal lies in its unique blend of dark fantasy atmosphere with a quirky, often humorous, tone. Sir Daniel Fortesque is an iconic protagonist, a skeletal figure with an endearing personality. The gameplay incorporates creative mechanics, such as the arm-throwing ability and the strategic use of weapons for puzzle-solving. The experience is driven by exploration, combat, and the rewarding pursuit of collectibles.

Game Information

Type: Main Game

Release Year: 1998

Platforms: PlayStation, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable

Genres: Platform, Puzzle, Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure

Available Content

This main game release does not include DLCs or expansions. It has been updated through two remakes, offering modernized versions of the original experience.