The Old Man
A mysterious elder encountered at the start of the game in the village of Terinyo. He offers the player guidance and initial quests.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Arrow keys | Move the character Movement is grid-based; diagonal movement may use the numeric keypad on compatible DOS keyboards. |
|---|---|
5 | Wait for a turn The numeric keypad is commonly used for roguelike movement. |
i | Open inventory |
e | Eat |
g | Pick up an item |
d | Drop an item |
l | Look around |
< | Use an upward staircase |
> | Use a downward staircase |
Control notes
ADOM is primarily keyboard-driven.
Exact movement keys can vary with the DOS keyboard layout; the numeric keypad is standard for eight-way movement.
How it plays
How does Ancient Domains of Mystery play?
The game uses a top-down, grid-based perspective. The main objective is to explore Ancardia, complete quests, improve the chosen character, and confront the growing threat of Chaos. Dungeons, wilderness areas, towns, and special locations are arranged as separate areas with procedurally generated elements.
Players move one square at a time, fight creatures, use equipment, manage food and other resources, and develop skills through experience and level gains. Characters can follow different classes, races, alignments, and play styles. Death is normally permanent, so careful positioning, identification of items, and retreat are central to progression.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Ancient Domains of Mystery?
- Learn the keyboard commands and inspect dangerous situations before committing to a fight.
- Keep reliable food, healing, and escape options available; hunger, terrain, and status effects can be decisive.
- Identify unfamiliar equipment cautiously, and use ranged attacks or corridors to limit enemy approaches.
- Do not treat early success as safety: preserve resources and plan an escape route before entering deeper areas.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
The Mad Minstrel
A wandering musician whose quest is one of the game's most famous side stories.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Save unidentified items until you can assess their risks safely.
- 2
Use the dungeon layout and terrain to avoid being surrounded.
- 3
Experiment with skills and quests, but remember that most deaths cannot be undone.
Community discussion
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