Ultima Underworld Retrospective | Forging a New Era

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 17 ม.ค. 2025

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  • @FenixPJ_
    @FenixPJ_ 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2024

    Oh look at me I'm Ultima. I pioneered role playing in video games. My spinoff inadvertently became the foundation for first person shooters and immersive sims. My online game helped establish the MMORPG into mass popularity.

    • @Majuular
      @Majuular  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +895

      "Oops I accidentally set the precedent for like 50 different genres and subgenres teehee silly me" ...what a showoff

    • @CaptainRufus
      @CaptainRufus 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +222

      Yet it's barely mentioned now outside of enthusiasts and historians, with EA barely acknowledging it's existence.

    • @LotusGramarye
      @LotusGramarye 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +87

      Not quite true. The average person might have no idea what an Ultima is, but hardcore gamers and game devs do, and are influenced and inspired by them to this day
      As gaming has blown up it's become excessively commercialized so the first founders become forgotten by most, but still affect those with a deep love for the artform and so continue to affect and influence it.
      ​@@CaptainRufus

    • @tylermontgomery3513
      @tylermontgomery3513 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +19

      @@Majuular This is the first Ultima game that has looked genuinely interesting to me! Too bad I'm not a PC gamer and this will probably never be adapted to work on any console, (sigh) oh well, at least this was the most enjoyable video Majuular has done on this series so far, what a great vid to end the year on!

    • @wedding2710
      @wedding2710 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +64

      ​@@tylermontgomery3513 If you have a computer, any computer, even if it's old and crappy, it can certainly run UU. You don't need to be a designated PC or Console Gamer to play games from decades ago.

  • @andrewhofmann5453
    @andrewhofmann5453 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +271

    Wow... When I was 16, I worked at Origin, on Ultima 7 and Underworld 2. You really did this justice, brought back so many memories that I had when I worked there. I was on Customer Service and helped with hints on this game for a time and some of the "Gotchas" were so familiar.
    Thanks for taking me down memory lane!

    • @Majuular
      @Majuular  15 วันที่ผ่านมา +50

      That's awesome! did they give you a "puzzle solutions" list for callers?

    • @chriscross5469
      @chriscross5469 11 วันที่ผ่านมา +5

      It was the second computer game I ever bought, I was 14 when it came out. Still one of my best gaming experiences!

    • @ndowroccus4168
      @ndowroccus4168 10 วันที่ผ่านมา +6

      You’re a celebrity to me

    • @wildcat189
      @wildcat189 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      Wow. Thanks for making the world better by working on two of the best games ever made!

  • @sentegraphs
    @sentegraphs 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +600

    In the past couple months, you've become an instant watch for me. Way to close out 2024!

    • @iRemainNameless
      @iRemainNameless 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +20

      Welcome to the club! 🎉

    • @Majuular
      @Majuular  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +51

      Very glad to hear it. Happy New Year!

    • @Doormau5719
      @Doormau5719 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +9

      Agreed, a wonderful new find

    • @X862go
      @X862go 16 วันที่ผ่านมา

      💯

  • @mikehab7453
    @mikehab7453 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +89

    It is no understatement, no hyperbole, that Ultima Underworld blew my mind and shaped my youth. UUW was a life changing experience for me, and taught me so much. My dad bought the strategy guide, in which we both took notes. I still have that book today, proudly on my bookshelf.

    • @Slop_Dogg
      @Slop_Dogg 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

      Happy to hear these stories. It was before my time, but I did eventually play it sometime in the early 2000’s after discovering Elder Scrolls Morrowind & Daggerfall.

    • @mikehab7453
      @mikehab7453 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

      @@Slop_Doggthe game genuinely scared me for an embarrassingly long time, and I always had to play it during the daytime

    • @BriteRory
      @BriteRory 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

      @@mikehab7453 It scared me too, although I only got to play it at a friends house. This game is without doubt one of the most important moments in gaming and art history, to this day there is absolutely nothing like it, even Arx Fatalis lacks the amount of immersive interactivity this and its sequel had. Hard to believe games used to be like this.. back then it didn't feel as significant as it does in retrospect.

    • @BriteRory
      @BriteRory 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

      By the way, treasure that clue book!! I eventually got a boxed copy of the first game and still keep it next to my gaming desk, but I only have the inserts it came with. I do have the books for a few others though, Wizardry 6 and 7 for instance.

    • @t.c.bramblett617
      @t.c.bramblett617 13 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      I loved it too. Along with Civilization, it was one of my formative games

  • @lerthewise5618
    @lerthewise5618 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +467

    For the length and depth of these retrospectives, Majuular is pumping these out at lightning speed.

    • @accountname-tu2om
      @accountname-tu2om 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +26

      these are scripted by a team of monkey ghost writers

    • @ETS212
      @ETS212 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +9

      He’s a pumper

    • @jesse.qua.
      @jesse.qua. 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

      Pump and dump, as the kids would say

    • @nickelback3360
      @nickelback3360 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      and yet, I always want more

    • @fresh2182
      @fresh2182 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      It's because he's passionate about it I'd wager :)

  • @Silverstar1995
    @Silverstar1995 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +211

    Maj, I don't have the authority, but to hell with it. You get an honorary doctorate in Video Game History, for the amazing work you're doing with the Ultima retrospective. This is Thesis-level engagement with a specific slice of the field, and is worthy of praise.

    • @Majuular
      @Majuular  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +61

      Thank you Silverstar! I'd be nothing without the archival work and exhaustive research of others. I plan on doing a "post-script" video chronicling all of the amazing sources I've had the privilege of using (all of whom are listed in a pastebin link located in the description). I am benefitting greatly from the hard work and dedication of many Ultima fans.

    • @AL-lh2ht
      @AL-lh2ht 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +5

      @@Majuular No joke you could probably write a book on ultima If a good one has not already been written on it.

    • @FelisImpurrator
      @FelisImpurrator 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +9

      ​@@MajuularWell, that does tend to be how academic papers work - with mountains of citations!

    • @Valkbg
      @Valkbg 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

      @@FelisImpurrator Exactly. Good academic work is being able to use sources effectively and finding good sources of course

    • @caveirainvocada9438
      @caveirainvocada9438 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      @@Majuular that would be the coolest thing ever second only to these vids :)

  • @IFinishedAVideoGame
    @IFinishedAVideoGame 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +363

    Hell yes dude. I've been waiting for this one since the series began and I can promise you that my new years eve is going to involve slurping this up with a smile on my face
    Here's to what has been an unbelievable year for the most genius channel on TH-cam

    • @Majuular
      @Majuular  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +72

      Yes, yes, but enough about your channel, what about mine?? dohoho
      Thanks a million pal. Cheers to a great 2025!

    • @IFinishedAVideoGame
      @IFinishedAVideoGame 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +37

      ​Now now this could go on all night let me enjoy this delve underground in peace ​@@Majuular

    • @fresh2182
      @fresh2182 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +6

      ​@@Majuularman, I appreciate you so much. I feel like we're finally reaching the age wherein video games are being accepted as a rightful artform, and you document many of the most critical works, with amazing style and bountiful knowledge.
      You are doing a great service to the culture, covering these pillars of the interactive medium, and you'll surely inspire others who will continue to push the field further.

    • @christopherbennett1173
      @christopherbennett1173 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +6

      My two favourite video essayists having a little bromance.
      Wholesome stuff my dudes

    • @aidamou
      @aidamou 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

      This is like watching my two favourite celebrities interact 0o0

  • @Slop_Dogg
    @Slop_Dogg 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +172

    It really is incredible how influential this series is. From Ultima inspiring devs on Dragon Quest in 1986, to Ultima Underworld inspiring Elder Scrolls creators in 1994, to Ultima Online inspiring World of Warcraft designers in 2004- and that’s just to list a few. It really does feel like it’s a series that RPG fans (and anyone interested in gaming history) should know about. I appreciate these videos!

    • @arciks11
      @arciks11 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

      UW more or less beat ES1 to the release and devs scrambled to make it different by focusing on bigger play window and scale of the world.

    • @Slop_Dogg
      @Slop_Dogg 13 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      @@arciks11 I was under the impression TES Arena began development a little over a year before it released in early 1994, so Underworld would’ve been out for some time.

    • @LutraLovegood
      @LutraLovegood 13 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Would we have King's Field without Ultima?

    • @quarkbent9165
      @quarkbent9165 11 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      And then, as the prior commenter mentions, there's also the influence on King's Field and therefore Dark Souls...
      Enemies, at a certain level, to deter you from going where you shouldn't yet? Where have I heard this before...

    • @quarkbent9165
      @quarkbent9165 11 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      @@Slop_Dogg Yes; what Ultima Underworld did was make TES2 pursue full 3d. Instead, when it comes to TES1, it was made prettier to compete with Ultima Underworld. Source? Indigo Gaming's Interview with Julian LeFay

  • @transgirl985
    @transgirl985 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +117

    Just got caught up on the Ultima series after a busy semester and now I'm met with this??? What a treat this is, truly. Thank you Majuular!

    • @Majuular
      @Majuular  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +27

      WOW thank you so much! This is a really generous super thanks. Glad you've been enjoying the Ultima vids and I hope your semester went smoothly!

    • @LordDragox412
      @LordDragox412 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +12

      31:30 Sorry, but his new name is Rodriguez.

    • @dane3038
      @dane3038 14 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

      Thank you for helping to cover a debt that some of us cannot afford to right now.

  • @MunchieLuknight
    @MunchieLuknight 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +33

    i wish i could relive 1980-2000 again multiple times. the music scenes, the tech, everything felt altogether new every couple of years. I know it is said a lot but kids today will have no idea how cool it was going from playing space invaders in an arcade to an SNES to playing Half Life on PC a at home. Now you can own a PC for 10+ years and not feel any difference from the games you played when you got it, to the game you upgrade it for

    • @austinbaccus
      @austinbaccus 11 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Case in point: Battlefront 2, the one made in 2017, still has some of the best graphics I've ever seen in video games.
      Can you imagine saying that in 1995 for a game made in 1987?

  • @ben8521
    @ben8521 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +42

    What a treat of a video. I remember buying the game for my birthday and it took 15 years old me 6 months to find the right memory settings to run it on Mom's 386DX. But when I did ... Man. I can confirm that, at the time, there was nothing like it. This game brought so much, its echoes are still vibrating today. I loved to document the lizard men language, and actually learn it in the process. Visionary. This game also taught me English.

  • @DerIchBinDa
    @DerIchBinDa 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +5

    As a teen in 1992, starting the game the first time and SEEING the smooth movement I was awestruck! Goosebumps! What a time to be able to witness this milestone in game history and the unimaginable 3D tech that it presented for the first time. And as an RPG nerd the story and roleplaying was just the cherry on a cherry on top!
    Thank you for the superb video and I am glad YT suggested this to me.

  • @submerge249
    @submerge249 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +99

    The level of in-depth backstory that you put in these videos is so appreciated. Also getting to see what these games were like, especially when they only existed in the imagination of a poor kid who had to live vicariously thru magazines back in the day is so wonderful. Thank you for what you do, dude. 😁

    • @Majuular
      @Majuular  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +12

      My pleasure, thank you for watching!

  • @LordHog
    @LordHog 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +14

    Another great deep drive into the Ultima series. We all thank you very much for these . I always love listening to these in the background while doing work. The help pass the time with ease listening to something great

    • @Majuular
      @Majuular  16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Cheers LordHog, thank you for the super thanks! Glad I can help ease the work day for ya. Hope the boss doesn't chew you out for having earbuds in like mine did 🫡

    • @LordHog
      @LordHog 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      @ I have been fortunate as no employer has had issues with me listening to anything while working. I am the type of person that can’t focus or work without some sort of background “thing” playing. I know most people don’t fit this category, but I certainly do. Again, thanks for all the great deep dive videos

  • @Love_Yourself4830
    @Love_Yourself4830 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +76

    Ending the year strong with some content from the GOAT. Thank you so much for being such a prolific creator of S-Tier content as well as just a good human and if I dare say, a friend.
    Wishing you and yours endless blessings in 2025, brother.

  • @DoshDoshington
    @DoshDoshington 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +52

    You just keep edging me for Ultima VII

    • @nuclearicebreaker
      @nuclearicebreaker 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      oh woah dosh o7
      yes i feel the same way but i was scared to say it heh

    • @dudewheresmycar4203
      @dudewheresmycar4203 13 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Majuular makes goons of us all.

    • @creamyhorror
      @creamyhorror 12 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Ultima VII, the best of its breed and era. When you play it you understand the magic that was created by Origin in those years.

  • @Hardworlder
    @Hardworlder 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +94

    Holy moly, how are you putting these out at this rate? 2+ hour videos of games that can require a few dozen hours just to play through, let alone write a script and then edit. I can't imagine the amount of Ultima that has been rolling around your brain for the past months/years. I've been looking forward to Underworld, 7 and 8 the most in this series, so very hyped for this and the next few episodes, especially. My first Ultima games were Runes of Virtue 2 on SNES and Ultima 8, so I had a pretty warped view of the franchise for a long time. Anywho, Happy New Year!

    • @SECONDQUEST
      @SECONDQUEST 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +25

      Dude is obviously someone who loves his work and is extremely dedicated. It's great.

    • @Majuular
      @Majuular  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +80

      Thank you and Happy New Year! I had set a personal goal for getting this video out before the end of the year, so I adjusted my workload accordingly. Last few days have involved some 16-hour editing sessions, but I've really been enjoying the work.

    • @Grimdark_Replays
      @Grimdark_Replays 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +6

      honestly I am waiting to see how he handles 9 😈. It will be harder I think to make such lengthy video. There only so many times you can say each mechanic has been massively scaled back, before it gets stale and when it’s half of your script😂. It may be better to combine 8 and 9 into one video, what with a significant chunk of 8 missing even though it was completed. Then 9 being as lore and continuity breaking as it is, while releasing in the state it did.
      The early origin titles were groundbreaking experiences, so you get plenty of content, discussing how mechanics were revolutionary etc. The only breaking Ultima 9 does, is breaking Birtannia, and then your heart.
      Also finding your channel has been great, the fact you had issues with the FMV video is silly but thanks for making it. Ultima 6 is one of my favorite games of all time.

    • @Rynjinivar
      @Rynjinivar 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

      @@Grimdark_Replays I can hear it already, ringing in the air like a funeral bell.
      "Your knowledge of the land shall be great."
      "What's a paladin?"

    • @dirtfriend
      @dirtfriend 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      @@Majuular absolutely insane amount of work, but it's not going unappreciated! this series is seriously one of my favourites i've ever seen on this platform and i look forward to each new entry

  • @Unquestionable
    @Unquestionable 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +20

    Was driving home from work not an hour ago and thought "Wouldn't another part of the Ultima Retrospective make this year end perfectly?" Little did I know that you would somehow hear my little plea and deliver in spades. These videos are legit some of my favorite content on the platform and combine all that I love about gaming into one wonderful multi hour experience.

  • @arios6443
    @arios6443 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +58

    I have never played an Ultima game in my life, but I wouldn't miss these videos for the world. Looking forward to your video on Ultima IX. I hear it's a trainwreck.

    • @Grogeous_Maximus
      @Grogeous_Maximus 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +15

      Ultima IX had potential. As a huge Ultima fan, that's the only praise I can give that game.
      Still hoping for a fanmade engine to some day do the game justice, like U7 Revisited is getting

    • @chillhour6155
      @chillhour6155 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

      Watch old Spoony ultimate review's as well, it's a wild ride

    • @archerknight
      @archerknight 14 วันที่ผ่านมา

      But Stealing is Wrong!

    • @henkman00
      @henkman00 6 วันที่ผ่านมา

      What’s a paladin?

  • @PriceAintRight
    @PriceAintRight 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +74

    As an old cat that was around when Spoony did this, I've got to say you've managed to dig even deeper, in a sincere way I can appreciate.
    Which is funny cause I remember you being pretty young. Great work Maj. I've watched these at least twice.

    • @blackpedals
      @blackpedals 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +10

      Yeah, this was my thought too. It's like a remastered version of a game that's so good, there's never a reason to play the original again. 😂

    • @PriceAintRight
      @PriceAintRight 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +7

      @@blackpedalsI'm SO happy someone picked up the mantle of "The Ultima Guy".

    • @thefinegameofnil7158
      @thefinegameofnil7158 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +14

      Real shame what happened to Spoony. He was nowhere near perfect, but I thoroughly enjoyed his uploads regardless back in the day.

    • @chazzwozzio
      @chazzwozzio 15 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Guy was a trail blazer​@@thefinegameofnil7158

    • @Miraihi
      @Miraihi 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +5

      Finntrovert has also made a pretty good Ultima retrospective.

  • @Nice-ds2vw
    @Nice-ds2vw 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +69

    Perfect way to start the new year

    • @fargoretro
      @fargoretro 17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      That's not until tomorrow you buffoon

  • @hazenroller-olson7065
    @hazenroller-olson7065 11 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

    Crushin in bro. I love a dense retrospective, and you're one of the premiere creators in that zone! The Fantano cameo had me cry-laughing. Keep up the good work 😊

    • @Majuular
      @Majuular  11 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Cheers buddy, thanks for the kind words and the tip! I'll do my best to keep delivering the goods 🫡

  • @Inkfy
    @Inkfy 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +70

    Your Ultima videos have been a highlight for this year! I hope after you complete this project you'll find another series to be just as enthusiastic about. Your passion for this series really carries through the hard work and research you went through just to make these videos. Excellent work!

    • @Retrofun69
      @Retrofun69 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +7

      I hope he does the Wizardry series.

    • @donguffey2203
      @donguffey2203 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

      Yup wizardry

  • @_trashPANDA
    @_trashPANDA 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

    "Books tell, movies show, and games involve" Love that.
    Have also loved this Ultima retrospective. Was way too young to experience any of these, so it's fun learning about a titan I always heard about.

  • @zennistrad
    @zennistrad 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +78

    Ultima Underworld was also the primary inspiration for Arx Fatalis, Arkane's debut game and one of the most criminally underrated titles of the early 00s

    • @Skullkan6
      @Skullkan6 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      I really wish I could get further into that game but I always get stuck around the orc camp

    • @SpecShadow
      @SpecShadow 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

      they wanted to make Ultima Underworld 3 but EA went with "nah"

    • @Iymarra
      @Iymarra 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      Yeah, watching this shows the influence it had on many future titles, like lands of lore. LoL3 was my fav.

    • @TheStampi
      @TheStampi 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

      Criminally underrated. I’d like a remaster or proper sequel

    • @ObsidianFane
      @ObsidianFane 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      Shoulda been called Fart Analfist, really.

  • @aeschafer1
    @aeschafer1 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

    Thank you for all the videos and coverage, Mr. Rodriguez. Ultima: Exodus for the nes was one of my earliest role playing game experiences, so the series has always had a special place in my heart, but having never been a pc gamer i mostly missed out on the ways in which ultima kept redefining the genre for a decade or more. This series of videos has been one of my favorite excursions to take the last however long it's been.

  • @vincelang3779
    @vincelang3779 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +18

    I . . . didn't think I'd get to watch this so soon! Thank you so very much! Yours is by far the best retro I've seen on this series. Even having read THROUGH THE MOONGATE - along every other piece of media I could find on the Garriotts, Origin, etc... - I still learned some new tidbits I didn't know : kudos!

  • @Vernadamais
    @Vernadamais 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +10

    Thank you for everything Majuular. You have no idea how mutch you helped me this year. Thank you.

  • @Qwertyliusz
    @Qwertyliusz 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +19

    Hey Majuular I just wanted to say that I've discovered your channel this year and that year definitely wasn't the best, but your videos had helped me just a bit. No matter what was happening at the time whenever I saw a new upload from your I knew I'll be able to forget about it and either discover something completely new or go back to simpler times I've spent with some of those games. You quickly became one of my favorite retrospective channels on TH-cam and if it wasn't for you I would have never played games like Koudelka, Shadow Hearts or Lost Odyssey. Here's to another year of top tier content my man!

  • @marafolse8347
    @marafolse8347 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +16

    Shoutout to Kikoskia here on TH-cam for his fantastic old-school let's plays of Ultima Underworld 1+2.
    These games are my favorite in the franchise for that reason, and im so excited for this video. Great way to start the new year!

    • @LordDragox412
      @LordDragox412 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      +1

    • @GaetanLloyd
      @GaetanLloyd 12 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      LOVE that channel. I have yet to watch his play through of those games, but I found his channel when one of my friends told me about the Land of Lore series. I love old school fantasy, but I feel like the dungeon crawlers and CRPG’s do not age well. Watching Kikoskia play through the land of Lord games felt like i played through them myself. Great commentary and very thorough!

  • @ehko9989
    @ehko9989 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +55

    I'm sick, I'll probably spend the last few hours of the year on my toilet seat...but at least Majuular is here to make these few hours entertaining.
    Thank you sir !

    • @crunchbuttsteak8741
      @crunchbuttsteak8741 17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      If it makes you feel better I am sick myself rn. Feel better dude/lady/miscellaneous!

    • @피리를-불어라
      @피리를-불어라 17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Hey, no shame, been there, done that lol. The universe likes to hit you with diarrhea and vomiting on holidays

    • @TogaToga2000
      @TogaToga2000 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +8

      Pro tip- calmoseptine or regular zinc oxide based diaper cream can do wonders to prevent or soothe the inevitable irritation… Good luck, get well soon.

    • @Majuular
      @Majuular  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +29

      Hey we have similar new years plans... except I'm not sick. I just like hanging out there.
      Feel better soon!

    • @guywhomstvepostgood
      @guywhomstvepostgood 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +5

      Out with the bad, in with the good

  • @bush5537
    @bush5537 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +8

    I've oversaturated myself with video essays and am kind of jaded on the genre at the moment, but seeing a Majuular video in the sub box is the welcome exception.

  • @pk_dolphin
    @pk_dolphin 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +30

    Have had a horrible day at work to cap off a crappy year and my boy Majuular coming in with a new Ultima video to end it on a high note

    • @raghugba863
      @raghugba863 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      Dang, that sucks to hear. I hope next year treats you better and that work sucks less

    • @nojuanatall3281
      @nojuanatall3281 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      You're not alone. People were rough today. At least every day isn't a holidays. Cheers.

    • @jackmesrel4933
      @jackmesrel4933 17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Same, tho in my case I started the new year working, so I didn't have the chance to get to this video on release. Time to get my fix XD

  • @GreySectoid
    @GreySectoid 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +53

    Dude's cranking out quality content faster than quality content is usually cranked out

    • @jesse.qua.
      @jesse.qua. 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +8

      Cranking out for the boys

    • @sergnb0
      @sergnb0 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      I just want a world where we get Hbomberguy at 1/3 this rate. Thank god for majuular he’s single handedly holding the quality cap of videogame TH-cam essays, these days it’s kinda dire out there

    • @kingjoe3rd
      @kingjoe3rd 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      ill crank your content!

  • @hoyitsmiguel
    @hoyitsmiguel 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +10

    I literally caught up with the Ultima Retrospective series yesterday, so this was a welcome notification today to receive

  • @couchalmark675
    @couchalmark675 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +10

    It's a foreboding feeling at the end of this video, knowing that what's coming next is so great, but then also knowing what's coming after.

  • @gamecrazy170
    @gamecrazy170 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +15

    Oh heeeeeeeell yeah, the best retrospective series on TH-cam continues

  • @TheCrimsonKings
    @TheCrimsonKings 9 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Man, this brought me back to the good old days of gaming. Ultima Underworld was one of my favs, the atmosphere was amazing! The feeling of being lost and had to figure stuff out while avoiding leeches and rats and other dangers while not being english speaking made it even more mysterious and extra hard for a teenager lol. Great vid!

  • @PXAbstraction
    @PXAbstraction 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +19

    I watched this intro so. many. times. as a kid. I had an umm...extended demo copy of the game and at the time, it was state of the art. Brought my PC to its knees and despite how horrific the voice acting is, it was mind blowing at the time. Seeing the full 3D engine at the time was a magical experience. Funny enough, I was such a weaksauce as a kid that I never got far in this because enemies suddenly appearing in the short draw distance and the music suddenly changing would jump scare me. 🤣 Also yeah, the mapping system was next level to anything else at the time and it's amazing how few games copied it.

  • @davidt3563
    @davidt3563 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +16

    I still think it's funny that I knew Warren as a dude on a message board I used to frequent and I knew of Ultima Underworld but I didn't realize his connection to it until like 2009.
    Nice dude.

    • @Majuular
      @Majuular  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +10

      No kidding, which message board are we talking?

  • @nazgulsenpai
    @nazgulsenpai 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +7

    59:30 this is why your channel is so great. This is EXACTLY the experience I had playing this as a pre-teen in the early 90s.

  • @supercrownjosie7732
    @supercrownjosie7732 6 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    TH-cam randomly recommended me this video the other day, even though I've never watched your channel before. As a big Elder Scrolls fans, I eagerly clicked it to learn more about the game that laid its groundwork. I ended up stopping the video, and watched the entire retrospective over the last few days, and now I've come back and rewatched/finished this one. This is some of the best work on TH-cam. Seriously, your hard work has not gone unnoticed or unappreciated. Anyway, now that I've completed my viewing of the Ultima retrospective, I expect a letter in the mail from Lord British any day now.

  • @Kyezoar
    @Kyezoar 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +5

    Not joke I had no idea the Ultima series had THIS much substance to it up until Ultima Underworld, which was the only game I knew about previously because it was always mentioned whenever Wolfenstein 3D's creation was discussed.
    And I'm so glad it was these videos that taught me about them, simply with the sheer amount of passion and detail behind them

  • @mothweb8088
    @mothweb8088 10 วันที่ผ่านมา

    this is the good shit right here, you're one of my new favorite game essay channels. dare i pray and hope for some more looking glass retrospectives in the future? perhaps some shocked systems or some thief 2 action?

  • @robynsnixersnaxk9483
    @robynsnixersnaxk9483 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +5

    Your output and quality are so amazing! Thank you so much for your stuff. I've never played an Ultima game in my life and yet I get as excited as a kid on christmas when I see a new one is up

  • @Weinder
    @Weinder 10 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Little comment (mostly to boost engagement), but I genuinely was surprised how fast these 2 hours went by. I did watch it in multiple segments, but this long video is easy to pause and even easier to resume. Excellent in every way. I had never heard of this game before and did not know how groundbreaking and influential it was... And I am honestly impressed with how exhaustive & thorough your work is here. Thanks a lot!!

  • @timcronic2341
    @timcronic2341 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +6

    I am beyond overjoyed every time you upload dude, it's banger after banger

  • @Hoixon
    @Hoixon 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    I've been watching your videos for quite a while now and I just have to say your Ultima retrospectives are foundational. I really enjoy all your other videos, too, but these videos deserve even more success than they already achieved. Thank you so much for introducing us to these games that most of us have only heard about in passing and giving it the repect they deserve.

  • @shanemczane6725
    @shanemczane6725 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +9

    This is an incredible New Years present Majuular, thanks so much and have a great New Year!

  • @chaninja001
    @chaninja001 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    I loved playing this game so much even though I fumbled my way through it. I was very young and didn't understand/appreciate much of the plot/lore and I played a pirated copy without a manual so had to figure out the spells by trial and error and making educated guesses over time. As you said, this game was so far ahead of its time and I have not yet experienced this kind of depth, atmosphere and adventure since. Your video has filled in so many blanks and I'm so tempted to replay it now with all this knowledge. Thanks so much for this incredible content about one of my all time top 5 games ever!

  • @ThiefofCrystals
    @ThiefofCrystals 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +22

    Ladies and gentlemen; quite possibly the best creator on the platform right here. Your laid-back, informative presentation never fails to enthral me, and this amount of content at such a high quality is insane, you're sincerely an inspiration. Wishing you nothing but the success you deserve.

  • @LetsGameItOut
    @LetsGameItOut 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

    Another absolute gem!

  • @yoma_95
    @yoma_95 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +5

    Perfect game to end 2024! This year I've watched all your videos but was specially looking forward to this one. Congratulations and happy new year!

  • @GRG28248
    @GRG28248 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

    This is the single cleanest, most well put together reviews of a video game I have ever seen on the internet! You could put this on TV. Love your channel. Also I'm surprised nobody ever put together a TTRPG book based on the Ultima Franchise. I might have to make one myself or something.

  • @Kris451
    @Kris451 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +7

    I just rewatched the Worlds of Ultima video and wondered if the Underworld video was out. Went to your channel to see and saw it wasn't.
    That was an hour ago...
    Wasn't expecting this pleasant surprise today!
    Cheers and Happy New Year, Maj!

  • @johnnytower6169
    @johnnytower6169 14 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

    This was the first video game I ever asked my parents to buy me. I was 6 and had seen it at a cousins house
    It took me forever to learn to play it, I didn’t complete it till my teens. My god was it immersive though, I swear that if I had been in the avatars shoes I’d have been unstoppable

  • @Eskaton12
    @Eskaton12 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

    Recently found your content, and absolutely love it man! Informative, hilarious, and well constructed. 10/10!

  • @jamiecheesman9868
    @jamiecheesman9868 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    This channel is the definition of "cosy". Thanks from the UK!

  • @mariomcp
    @mariomcp 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +5

    Fantastic way to end the year, here is to hoping 2025 goes even better for you Majuular. Thanks for all the quality content!

  • @stephenveilleux4059
    @stephenveilleux4059 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Genuinely this is my favorite channel I've seen probably since RLM. I bought the whole Kings Field series because of you. And this is what I've been waiting for

  • @fenrirlives2226
    @fenrirlives2226 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

    2:06:16 blindsided by a Based Major Payne reference in 2025! Absolutely incredible!
    Wonderful review yet again Big Maj!

  • @Toasterstoasturface
    @Toasterstoasturface 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    Seeing your video show up on my front page after a rough day at work was exactly the relief I needed tonight. Thank you for all you do!

  • @MrMetal-xe8lg
    @MrMetal-xe8lg 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

    Finally, we get to the one I've heard the name of dozens of times before, and nothing more than a screenshot and a "but who cares about this one, Wolf 3D is what REALLY changed gaming" to elaborate on it.
    This is probably a bit rambly, so TLDR: Majuular, thanks for doing what you do and showing these old games in a fair and detailed light.
    It's so shocking how this game pulled off things that not even DOOM 2 did, makes all the early post-DOOM FPS games look even more shallow by comparison (not that there's anything wrong with a simple, fun shooter).
    I was always curious as to why Ultima Underworld was so frequently pushed under the rug when discussing the true origins of FPS games, and now my questions have been answered: it was a dense, slow paced RPG that would punish you if you didn't consistently scribble down notes and pace your saves. Back in the day, I'm sure even I would've dropped Underworld to play the stripped down and more arcadey Wolf 3D.
    It really did change the tastes of gamers of years to come, but it's not like that's a bad thing. We got the catalogs of Id Software and Valve from that shift, and complex RPGs clearly didn't die off because of Wolf 3D. If anything it probably made them a little more digestable and accesible in the long run.
    I hope people read this far down, feels a bit lonely right now.

  • @ViktarTheBarbarian
    @ViktarTheBarbarian 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    Imagine my surprise when I was watching an Amiga documentary the other day and low and behold that's where the intro is from. Such a man of good tastes.

  • @criderscowboy
    @criderscowboy 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +13

    1:16:26 Cornpop was one bad dude man

    • @RingworldTyrant
      @RingworldTyrant 8 วันที่ผ่านมา

      It's throwaway red meat, but in this half-second he's won my viewership for a long time.

  • @Michael-kp6rl
    @Michael-kp6rl 13 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    I remember when this game came out. A friend's dad had it and I remember he had to come over to our house and help us troubleshoot our computer to get it running properly. I got so immersed in this game as an 11 year old. Even then you could tell that you were playing something that was groundbreaking and amazing.
    I also ended up playing Ultima Online when it first came out and it came with a similar feeling to Underworld in the sense that you could just tell you were playing something that was revolutionary, literally being a part of a new genre being born.

  • @FasterthanLight11
    @FasterthanLight11 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

    Man it's weird drawing an almost straight line through Ultima, Wizardry and King's Field to the CRPGs and JRPGs of today. People act like they are different but they are two close branches from the same trunk.

  • @RetroGameStream
    @RetroGameStream 10 วันที่ผ่านมา

    The structure, pacing and execution of your reviews and retrospectives are among the best of the best. This is a game I tried to play a few times but ultimately gave up on due to much of what you explain in your video. Seeing this video made me feel like I was finally able enjoy and understand the game. Keep up the great work.

  • @WarLore
    @WarLore 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

    Thank you so much for making this video! I haven't seen any other Ultima Underworld videos that REALLY give it context, history, and reflection. There's no such thing as a truly "unbiased' review, but it's great that you come at this with the desire to explore a game and history and context.

  • @Stoic_Lizard
    @Stoic_Lizard 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    I dont remember when I first subscribed to you, but I rediscovered your videos in my feed recently and have been binging your content over the past month or so. Excelent job on these. Top tier work in my opinion.

  • @zombiekingex7911
    @zombiekingex7911 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +10

    Come on Mr. The Avatar! We need to explore the Ultima Underworld and find the Stygian Abyss so we can save Britannia!

    • @FeiFongWang
      @FeiFongWang 17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      What are we some sort of... Lord of Ultima?

    • @FeiFongWang
      @FeiFongWang 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      I hope they add John Avatar to the next Super Smash Brothers

    • @Majuular
      @Majuular  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

      Maybe the real Ultima 5 Warriors of Destiny were the friends we made along the way

    • @chillhour6155
      @chillhour6155 16 วันที่ผ่านมา

      😩 no VA would've been an improvement, even for back in the day it was justBAD

  • @JeremyWilliams1
    @JeremyWilliams1 13 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    A true classic! 25 years ago we included Ultima Underworld on the July 2000 PC Gamer Magazine CD, along with 11 other games. Crazy to think it was only 8 years old then.

    • @theodorefalk5370
      @theodorefalk5370 5 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      That's the way that I first played it, that was such an awesome disc. Thank you!

  • @DIY-ThingsYT
    @DIY-ThingsYT 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +11

    Stopped FM (Pound)towning my Marty to watch this

    • @Majuular
      @Majuular  16 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

      Takin the Marty to pound town is a new years eve tradition!!

  • @malificusalbert
    @malificusalbert 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Literally a gift, my dude. This channel is a must in the style of long-form game review, with context given to the actual literal people involved. Majical.

  • @CassidyListon
    @CassidyListon 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +5

    For 1992 this game looks incredible.

    • @Majuular
      @Majuular  16 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      It's absolutely nuts when you consider what the average game looked like at the time

    • @CassidyListon
      @CassidyListon 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      @@Majuular please don't take this the wrong way, but your videos have quickly become my favorite way to fall asleep. The cadence and timber of your voice is even, and you don't insert any loud random audio barks. Please keep up the good work!

    • @chillhour6155
      @chillhour6155 16 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Yep true 3d perspective gaming, for a videogame the atmosphere it gave off was truely a revelation for it's time

  • @arturbb
    @arturbb 8 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Started playing the Age of Enlightment trilogy because of you, and I'm comepltely blown away at how engaging they are in their simplicity. Minimal guides, just using the game manuals, a notebook, and an pdf of the map of Britannia with my own annotations (yes, I manually translated the location names with the Runic Alphabet). I can't remember the last time I've been this immersed in a game.

  • @ShinoSarna
    @ShinoSarna 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

    1:20:00 Those who read memories of Sir Cabirus CAREFULLY, would know the ghouls aren't real ghouls - they're Exiles, humans who rejected the Virtues and were banished from original colony, and over the years became more ghoul-like in appearance due to living deep in the Abyss. Right there on page 12. Basically, entire race of Gollums.

  • @willmistretta
    @willmistretta 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    This is the one I've been waiting for. UW1 was by far the most immersive game I'd played up to that time, and it established the formula for every first-person real-time single character RPG since.

  • @EvanGMan
    @EvanGMan 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +303

    Who else is in the "clicked on the notification immediately" club?

    • @betanick14
      @betanick14 17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      👁️👁️

    • @Jamie-nx2cg
      @Jamie-nx2cg 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Yup

    • @ameteuraspirant
      @ameteuraspirant 17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      🫡

    • @matpn
      @matpn 17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      u got me, mate

    • @coolmedina117
      @coolmedina117 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Old man hype club

  • @herokenshin7527
    @herokenshin7527 15 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Thanks for these videos. As someone who grew up watching their siblings play the Ultima games, this was a real blast from the past.
    Love your work

  • @SamuelWaggoner
    @SamuelWaggoner 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +11

    Today is a good day

  • @Vcansado
    @Vcansado 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Greetings from Brazil! These videos you make are a mix of documentary and a love letter to these games and the fantastic people who created them. Thank you very much and a happy new year to you and everyone you love.

  • @nickcasillas1618
    @nickcasillas1618 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    I don’t even care that much about the topic. I just LOVE the dedication to researching and making these deep dive videos. Awesome work as always man!

  • @mCreecher91
    @mCreecher91 17 วันที่ผ่านมา

    This has become my favorite TH-cam series. And much respect for putting out such high quality content at such a steady pace.

  • @jjcoola998
    @jjcoola998 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    So this game was the first game box I ever got to check out!
    My older brother bought it a couple years after it came out and played it all the time on our 486 and I would just watch him over his shoulder for HOURS!
    As I got older DOOM ended up being the first game I really got into along with NES final fantasy .
    The game will always hold a special place in my heart for all those memories of watching my older brother journey through the underworld !!
    None the less I’m just sitting here waiting for the ultimate online episode, because that was a LEGENDARY time to be gaming!!

  • @98of99
    @98of99 13 วันที่ผ่านมา

    This is then first video of yours I’ve watched.
    I saw the title and thought I’d give it a chance without looking at the length.
    What I thought would be a 10 minute retrospective turned into much more, to say the least.
    Twenty minutes in I finally looked at the length and thought OMG!
    So, I started making pizza (cauliflower crust pizza from scratch)while listening and watching here and there.
    Near the end of your video the pizza was done and I subscribed.
    Masterful storytelling sir, your debt of lore, knowledge of both the subject and the entire Ultima franchise, and articulated way of conveying it floored me.
    Well done sir!

  • @dustinspencer9278
    @dustinspencer9278 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    These great retrospectives should have their own blu-ray box set. Really good stuff.

  • @DanielBurkeMakesGames
    @DanielBurkeMakesGames 13 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Great work on this. I discovered Ultimas around 1993 thanks to a friend at school having a 486. A few years later I got a 586 of my own, and with a few boot disks got really into U7, U8, Savage Empire, and both Ultima Underworlds. These games probably changed my life. I've ended up working on a game heavily inspired by them for quite a few years now!

  • @louderbacker
    @louderbacker 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Your output is crazy, dude. Most of the people I watch who put out videos of this quality do one every 3 to 6 months, knocking out one of these every month is crazy. You are an absolute beast!

  • @TsunamiWombat
    @TsunamiWombat 14 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Found your video's COMPLETELY by random, I've spent all day listening to them like a podcast while playing PoE2. Really stellar detailed work, real industry history reporting.

  • @Iloveyusomuch
    @Iloveyusomuch 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    You're an amazing video maker, this Ultima retrospective saga is masterful in presentation

  • @dootloosecannon752
    @dootloosecannon752 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Finding a channel that goes over so many of the games i grew up with is pretty nice. Well made, good humor. Keep it up, homie

  • @rayprevailer8454
    @rayprevailer8454 12 วันที่ผ่านมา

    I never get bored of these old games. I am 55 and still miss my Commodore 64. Thankfully we have GOG. Been playing Might and Magic Word of Xeen for the last week. I intend to complete it this time.

  • @gooberthoreau
    @gooberthoreau 16 วันที่ผ่านมา

    I love this dude's videos. Rarely will I watch a 2+ hour video on TH-cam where I actually WATCH the whole thing, not just passively watch/listen.

  • @Raindancerzero
    @Raindancerzero 17 วันที่ผ่านมา

    What Ive loved about your retrospectives is that you also provide a wider context for the games industry and the history of other series and companies, something a lot of other docs don’t do

  • @DaniArkadia
    @DaniArkadia 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Thank you for brightening this new year already Mr Longfinger, always amazed at how quickly you're able to pump out top tier retrospectives like this.

  • @Amknownas_743great_explainer
    @Amknownas_743great_explainer 17 วันที่ผ่านมา

    The passion in these has only ever showed just how groundbreaking they were. I even thought at one point " wow, I didn't even know they could of made that in '92." You've done a great job conveying those exact sentiments every time they are truly revolutionary. Maybe it's the similar taste and lines of thought, but I feel like I hear the difference in a little hyperbole based on true passion and when something really was a groundbreaking thing or a revolutionary leap or change. You do a brilliant job Maj, and your videos are some of the very few that I genuinely look forward and aren't just a random surprise I hadn't thought about in a while. Thank you for the effort, the passion, AND the hyperbole that reminds me I'm not the only one.

  • @bookimatt
    @bookimatt 17 วันที่ผ่านมา

    That’s another year in the books! It’s been an honor following your journey and seeing everything fall into place for you! Thank you for your hard work and I can’t wait to see what the new year has in store for you! All the best to you and your loved ones!
    The Grandia video can wait. 👌🏾

  • @volairen
    @volairen 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    Back to when I was 9 F YEAH! ULTIMA UNDERWORLD LETS GOOOOOO!! That's what I thought when I saw this title. Thank you for the nostalgia my friend.

    • @volairen
      @volairen 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      And yeah I played it on my dad's 486

  • @Betazeno
    @Betazeno 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    What a well done video showcasing an old game I loved! Really brought me back.