Avernum series

Spiderweb Software makes traditional role-playing games with hundreds of quests, and open world exploration. Combat is turn-based, but many encounters are unique and require careful strategy as enemies have different powers. All the games and stories are self-contained, so you can play them in any order.

It’s hard to find better RPGs for iOS than those made by Spiderweb, even if these are only playable on iPad. They also have unique races, setting them apart from other RPGs. No dwarves or elves here: instead you’ll find Nephils and Sliths fighting alongside humans. Spiderweb claims 30+ hours of gameplay for each game, but it takes me far longer, particularly with “nook-and-cranny” gaming: exploring every last map square. There are always hidden secrets, so this is always worthwhile!

Travel into the strange subterranean land of Avernum, full of dungeons, labyrinths, and constant warfare. A set of disasters threatens to destroy your homeland in a spasm of famine and warfare. Only you can help your people to get to safety before everything falls apart.

iPad Screenshot 1

Avernum: Escape From the Pit
You have been banished to the underworld, never to see the light of day again. The surface is ruled by the cruel Emperor Hawthorne, master of the Empire. All of the known lands are subject to his brutal command. Everyone who speaks out, who misbehaves, who doesn’t fit in is cast into the dark, volcanic pits of Avernum, far below the surface. There, you are expected to die, a victim of starvation, horrible monsters, or simple despair. But not all of the Avernites have surrendered. With magic and steel, they are forging a new nation deep underground. You can join them and fight for safety. Or freedom. Or even, if you dare, revenge on the surface-worlders who tried to destroy you.

iPad Screenshot 1

Avernum 2: Crystal Souls
Spiderweb Software returns once again to its epic creation, to tell a story of imprisonment, war, and a desperate fight for survival. Avernum 2: Crystal Souls is the second chapter in this classic indie fantasy role-playing saga, the tale of desperate exiles and their fight to keep their home. Fight to complete up to three distinct game-winning quests.

iPad Screenshot 1Avernum 6
The epic conclusion of the award-winning Avernum series. Travel into the strange subterranean land of Avernum, full of dungeons, labyrinths, and constant warfare. A final set of disasters threatens to destroy your homeland in a spasm of famine and warfare. Only you can help your people to get to safety before everything falls apart.

Links:
Official site
Official Spiderweb forums