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Dungeon Quest vs The Black Onyx

Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.

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Dungeon Quest
Dungeon QuestEmbark on a classic 80s fantasy adventure in a pixelated dungeon.
The Black Onyx
The Black OnyxClassic 1980s fantasy RPG for PC lovers
Overview
Description

Dungeon Quest is a retro role‑playing adventure that drops you into a labyrinth of monsters, treasure, and puzzles. Released at the end of 1985, it captures the charm of early computer RPGs with turn‑based combat and simple yet deep character progression. The game is single‑player only and runs on modern PCs via DOS emulation, offering nostalgic graphics, a memorable soundtrack, and a challenging difficulty curve that rewards careful exploration and strategic planning.

The Black Onyx is a retro role‑playing game originally developed by Bullet‑Proof Software in the early 1980s. It brings turn‑based combat and pixel‑art exploration to modern PC players, preserving the charm of its original SG‑1000 and MSX releases. Despite its age, the game offers a deep fantasy narrative and strategic gameplay that still appeals to fans of classic RPGs. Its single‑player focus lets you immerse yourself in a quest to uncover the secrets of the titular black onyx.

Pricing
Paid (One-time)
Paid (One-time)
Category
CRPG
CRPG
Best for
Fans of classic RPGs
Fans of classic fantasy RPGs
Specifications
General
msrp
$19.99
—
release date
1985-12-31
1984-01-01
Specifications
age rating
ESRB E
—
multiplayer
Single player
Single player
developer
—
Bullet-Proof Software
publisher
—
ASCII Corporation, Bullet-Proof Software
Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Authentic retro graphics and sound.
  • Deep tactical combat.
  • High replayability with procedural dungeons.
  • Simple controls suitable for all ages.
  • Authentic 1980s graphics and sound
  • Deep turn‑based combat system
  • Rich fantasy storyline
  • Single‑player focus ensures immersive experience
Cons
  • Limited modern quality‑of‑life features.
  • Steep learning curve for new players.
  • No multiplayer or co‑op options.
  • Limited color palette compared to modern games
  • No save‑anywhere feature; relies on old‑style checkpoints
  • Sparse documentation for modern players
Community & Metrics
Upvotes
0
0
User rating
Not enough data
Not enough data

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Dungeon Quest
Dungeon Quest

Embark on a classic 80s fantasy adventure in a pixelated dungeon.

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Shi-Kin-Joh
Shi-Kin-Joh

Classic 1991 adventure with strategic combat and deep story

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Shard of Spring
Shard of Spring

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The Verdict

AI-generated from listing data

Both are classic‑style retro RPGs, but Dungeon Quest offers more replay value with procedural dungeons and class variety, while The Black Onyx delivers a pure 1984 experience with authentic graphics and a fixed storyline.

Key differences

  • •Dungeon Quest features procedurally generated dungeons and four character classes; The Black Onyx has a static world and single hero.
  • •The Black Onyx explicitly mentions modern‑OS compatible save via emulation; Dungeon Quest provides no such detail.
  • •Dungeon Quest includes item crafting and equipment upgrades; The Black Onyx only lists basic inventory items.
  • •Pricing is specified for Dungeon Quest ($19.99) but not for The Black Onyx.
  • •Both lack multiplayer, but Dungeon Quest notes a steep learning curve, whereas The Black Onyx notes sparse documentation.
DimensionWinner

Gameplay & fun factor

Dungeon Quest adds procedural dungeons and class skill trees, increasing tactical depth beyond The Black Onyx's fixed quest.

Dungeon Quest

Platform availability

The Black Onyx states compatibility with modern operating systems via emulation; Dungeon Quest's platform support is not specified.

The Black Onyx

Pricing & value

Dungeon Quest price is $19.99; The Black Onyx price is not provided, so value cannot be directly compared.

Tie

Multiplayer / co‑op

Both are single‑player only.

Tie

Content & replayability

Procedurally generated dungeons and multiple classes in Dungeon Quest boost replayability versus The Black Onyx's static storyline.

Dungeon Quest

Difficulty & accessibility

Both lack modern QoL features; Dungeon Quest has a steep learning curve, while The Black Onyx has sparse documentation.

Tie

Graphics & performance

Both use retro pixel art, but Dungeon Quest’s graphics are described as faithfully recreating 1980s aesthetics, whereas The Black Onyx is limited by a reduced color palette.

Dungeon Quest

Choose Dungeon Quest if…

Best for gamers wanting classic retro style plus high replay value and deeper tactical options.

Choose The Black Onyx if…

Ideal for players seeking an authentic 1984 RPG experience with minimal modern conveniences.

Common questions

What is the price of The Black Onyx?

The price is not specified in the provided information.

Does either game support modern operating systems?

The Black Onyx includes a save system compatible with modern OS via emulation; Dungeon Quest does not mention OS compatibility.

Which game offers more replayability?

Dungeon Quest, due to procedurally generated dungeons and multiple character classes.