Dave Miller
The protagonist, who leads the rescue mission for Sandy.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Left Mouse Button | Select a verb, object, person, or exit. |
|---|---|
Right Mouse Button | Move the pointer and interact with the interface as supported by the DOS mouse driver. |
Control notes
A DOS mouse is the standard control method for the point-and-click interface.
The verb list appears at the bottom of the game screen.
How it plays
How does Maniac Mansion play?
The game uses a third-person viewpoint with a verb-and-noun interface. Click a verb such as OPEN, PUSH, or GIVE, then select a person, object, or location. Players explore the mansion, collect and combine items, solve environmental puzzles, and converse with its inhabitants.
Dave is always selected, while two additional teenagers are chosen at the start. Their skills affect which solutions are possible. The mansion has several connected areas, and progress comes from uncovering clues, obtaining keys and tools, and managing characters carefully; some actions can permanently endanger or kill a character.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Maniac Mansion?
- Examine every room and object, and talk to residents repeatedly; new dialogue often supplies puzzle clues.
- Choose teenagers for their useful abilities. Technical characters help with computers, while musicians and writers can complete character-specific routes.
- Save often before experimenting. Some objects can be destroyed, and certain characters can be captured or killed.
- Keep track of inventory and avoid leaving essential items in places that become inaccessible.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Sandy Pantz
Dave’s girlfriend and the captive whose rescue begins the adventure.
Dr. Fred Edison
The eccentric scientist and head of the Edison household.
Nurse Edna
Dr. Fred’s unsettling wife, who patrols the mansion.
Weird Ed Edison
The family’s militaristic son, protective of his hamster and belongings.
Edna Edison
The family’s daughter, whose interests include music and the occult.
Purple Tentacle
A mutated tentacle who serves Dr. Fred.
Green Tentacle
A friendly tentacle living in the mansion.
Bernard Bernoulli
A cautious teenager with technical skills.
Razor
A punk musician and one of the selectable teenagers.
Michael F. Stoppe
A photographer who can be selected for the rescue team.
Wendy Wells
An aspiring writer and selectable teenager.
Jeff Woodie
A surfer and selectable teenager.
Syd
A musician and selectable teenager.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
The mansion contains several independent puzzle routes, so do not assume there is only one correct team.
- 2
The HELP verb can provide context-sensitive hints about selected objects.
- 3
The game rewards careful observation more than rapid clicking.
Community discussion
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