Alkemstone

Alkemstone, released in 1981 by Level-10 for the Apple II computer, was one of the earliest and most mysterious treasure hunt games. The game challenged players to solve a complex puzzle that would lead to a real-world prize of $15,000.

The game presented players with a series of cryptic screens containing symbols, patterns, and hidden clues. Unlike typical adventure games of the era, Alkemstone had no inventory system, no character movement, and no direct interactions. Instead, players had to carefully study each screen to decode messages and decipher patterns that would eventually reveal coordinates to a real location in the United States where a valuable gem was supposedly buried.

Players navigated through different screens using simple keyboard commands. Each screen contained visual puzzles that required careful observation and logical thinking. The graphics were basic by today's standards but used the Apple II's high-resolution capabilities effectively to display intricate patterns and symbols.

The game was programmed by Thomas M. Luhrs and stood out from other treasure hunt games because of its extreme difficulty and unique approach to puzzle design. No one ever claimed to have solved the complete puzzle or found the treasure, adding to the game's mystique.

Alkemstone was notable for pushing the boundaries of game design on the Apple II. Unlike action games popular at the time like Choplifter or Castle Wolfenstein, it focused entirely on mental challenge rather than reflexes or timing. The game required players to take detailed notes and often work on puzzles away from the computer.

The game's difficulty and unusual design made it a commercial failure, but it developed a cult following among puzzle enthusiasts. Its influence can be seen in later treasure hunt games and alternate reality games that blend real-world and digital elements.

Even today, Alkemstone remains one of the most enigmatic games in Apple II history, with its puzzles still unsolved and its promised treasure unclaimed. Its combination of complex puzzles, real-world rewards, and minimalist design makes it a fascinating piece of early gaming history.