Lords of the Rising Sun: Large format edition

Fabled Lands #6

by Dave Morris, Jamie Thomson, Russ Nicholson (Illustrator)

Imperial Akatsurai, land of samurai and ninja

Set in a land which is an obvious parallel of classical Japan of the Heian period. Much like The War Torn Kingdom, a revolution is occurring. The self-proclaimed Shogun Yoritomo has declared himself in charge of the eastern seaboard, while the old Emperor Kiyomori remains in control of the western seaboard, and the country is on the brink of a civil war. Although the player can undertake quests for both sides of the revolution, the two forces never actually begin war as they do in the first book.

Other major quests involving retrieving a tatsu pearl from a great dragon, exploring Kwaidan Forest to learn the secrets of the tengu, and venturing into the Black Pagoda.

750 sections, ISBN 0-330-34430-7

Genres: Gamebooks, Fantasy, Fiction

104 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Colton · Rating 5 out of 5]

And sadly, we come to the untimely end of the Fabled Lands books. Though several more were intended, the series was never completed, leaving many plot threads abandoned and much of the world unexplored. It seems the author is currently doing a kickstarter to publish the seventh book, so there is still hope. As for this book, it is another contained affair, taking place on two islands that are clearly inspired by feudal Japan mixed with fantasy elements. As I was Rank 12 by the time I arrived here through a portal in the earth, I was able to master most of the quests, visit the Tengu King, defeat the spider people, ingratiate myself with the eastern lords, and visit the Black Pagoda and kill the giant. Though it is a smaller area with less quests and encounters, it is still very fun for advanced players. I just hope that the rest of the series will be published so I can finish many of the quests and explore the rest of the Fabled Lands.

[Nicoletta · Rating 5 out of 5]

4,5-5

[Tom G. · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the first books that introduced me to the concept -- and possibilities -- of gamebooks. Punishingly hard in places but essential for any fan of the format.