Abandoned Places: A Time for Heroes vs Dark Sun: Shattered Lands
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Abandoned Places: A Time for Heroes is a 1992 fantasy RPG where you control four heroes on a mission to stop the evil arch‑mage Bronagh and save the world of Kalynthia. The game blends a 2D top‑down overworld with 3D real‑time dungeon crawling reminiscent of Dungeon Master, offering a sandbox feel and plenty of side activities beyond the main quest. The interface lets you travel to towns by clicking symbols for services like healing or hints, while combat is point‑and‑click: select a weapon or spell, then click the monster, with cooldown timers after each use. This mix of exploration, party management, and real‑time action creates a deep, nostalgic adventure for solo players.
You begin as a gladiator in King Tectuktitlay’s arena, fighting for survival in the brutal city of Draj. After escaping the slave pens, you must navigate the arid wastelands of Athas, gathering allies and resources. Your ultimate goal is to build a rebel force capable of challenging the tyrannical sorcerer‑kings and reshaping the bleak world of Dark Sun.
- Rich open‑world exploration
- Blend of 2D and 3D perspectives
- Simple yet engaging point‑and‑click combat
- Deep party customization
- Deep AD&D‑based mechanics
- Rich, atmospheric setting
- Strategic turn‑based combat
- Strong narrative with multiple outcomes
- Dated graphics may not appeal to modern eyes
- Limited UI feedback during cooldowns
- No multiplayer or co‑op options
- Outdated graphics by modern standards
- Steep learning curve for new players
- Limited save system can be unforgiving
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Abandoned Places: A Time for Heroes
View all →
Embark on a classic fantasy RPG quest in a sprawling adventure.
Embark on a classic quest to defeat the Dragonlord and rescue the kidnapped princess.
Alternatives to Dark Sun: Shattered Lands
View all →
Explore a sun‑scorched, savage world in turn‑based RPG adventure.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataBoth are classic 1990s single‑player RPGs, but Abandoned Places offers richer open‑world exploration at a higher price, while Dark Sun provides deeper AD&D mechanics and a lower cost.
Key differences
- •Perspective: Abandoned Places mixes 2D top‑down overworld with 3D dungeons; Dark Sun is fully top‑down.
- •Combat style: Abandoned Places uses real‑time click‑to‑attack; Dark Sun uses turn‑based tactical combat.
- •Party size: Abandoned Places limits you to four heroes; Dark Sun allows up to six characters.
- •Price: Abandoned Places costs $49.99; Dark Sun costs $19.99.
- •Depth of mechanics: Dark Sun includes skill trees, experience points and AD&D‑based rules; Abandoned Places focuses on simple point‑and‑click combat.
Gameplay & fun factor
Dark Sun’s turn‑based tactical combat and skill trees offer deeper strategic depth than Abandoned Places’ simple real‑time system.
Platform availability
Both run on classic PC hardware from the early 90s; no modern platform data provided.
Price & value
Dark Sun costs $19.99 versus $49.99 for Abandoned Places, giving more content per dollar.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Both are single‑player only.
Content & replayability
Abandoned Places features a large open world, hidden items, side quests, and a mix of 2D/3D areas.
Difficulty & accessibility
Abandoned Places uses simple click‑to‑attack combat, making it more approachable than Dark Sun’s steep learning curve.
Graphics & performance
Both have dated 1990s graphics; no distinction provided.
Choose Abandoned Places: A Time for Heroes if…
Players who want easy, exploration‑focused RPGs with a blend of 2D/3D visuals and can afford a higher price.
Choose Dark Sun: Shattered Lands if…
Players seeking deep, strategic AD&D‑style mechanics, larger party options, and a lower price.
Common questions
Which game is cheaper?
Dark Sun: Shattered Lands costs $19.99; Abandoned Places: A Time for Heroes costs $49.99.
Do either of these support multiplayer?
No. Both are single‑player only.
What combat style does each game use?
Abandoned Places uses real‑time click‑to‑attack combat; Dark Sun uses turn‑based tactical combat.