Infidel (video game)

Infidel is a text-adventure game, published in 1983 by Infocom. It is the third game in the Zork series saga, although it is not numbered like the main Zork titles. Rather, it represents a branching storyline exploring different aspects of the Zorkian universe.

The player takes on the role of a self-proclaimed adventurer and archeologist in Egypt who believes they have located a hidden pyramid containing untold riches. The game begins with the player lost and abandoned in the desert by their unreliable crew after a heated argument about the location of the pyramid. The player must find their way back to their supplies, unravel the mysteries of the pyramid's location, navigate treacherous desert conditions, and ultimately explore the pyramid to uncover its secrets.

Infidel is known for its challenging puzzles, its reliance on map-making skills, and the realistic portrayal of the hostile desert environment. It also features a sardonic and often critical narrator who frequently comments on the player's actions, or lack thereof, adding to the game's distinctive atmosphere. As with other Infocom games, Infidel is renowned for its sophisticated text parser, allowing players to interact with the game world using natural language. The game emphasizes inventory management and requires the player to carefully consider the use of their limited supplies in order to survive. The game's story hinges on deciphering hieroglyphs and avoiding fatal errors based on their misinterpretation. The success of the player's mission depends on careful planning and the judicious use of the resources available to them.