As soon as all your characters have 550 health points, a good weapon, a decent armor (up to the chain/bronze armor), and most and foremost a ship, you can step to the second part of the adventure.
== Overview of Sosaria ==
From the manual:
: «''Sosaria is the world which Lord British calls home, and it is the world which is under threat from the mysterious and enigmatic Exodus. Some areas can be reach on foot, others must be sailed to, and other still can only be accessed through the mystical Moon Gates, whose positions change according to the phases of the two moons.''»
: «''Sosaria contains many secrets, most of which are designed to be discovered by you throughout your journey. You can learn much by talking to citizens of the towns, or through exploration of the land itself.''»
''Sosaria is the world which Lord British calls home, and it is the world which is under threat from the mysterious and enigmatic Exodus. It contains many features, including towns, castles, and dungeons. Some areas can be reach on foot. Others must be sailed to, and other still can only be accessed via the mystical Moon Gates, whose positions change according to the phases of the two moons.''
[[File:Ultima III Sosaria map.png|center]]
''You will find many sorts of aid in the various towns of Sosaria. Some are in the form of shops and pubs where you can buy items and information. Others are in the form of the very citizens that populate the town. It's a good idea to have an understanding of what to expect when paying a visit to a town.''
You start the game near the town of Britain and Lord British's castle.
First of all, enter the town of Britain and purchase weapons for your characters. Afterwards, pay a visit to Lord British.
{{-}}
=== Town of Britain ===
[[Image:Ultima III Town Britain.gif|left]]
''This city has grown up around the castle of Lord British. It is both well guarded and populous, as well as being a safe haven for the harried traveller. While it lacks the exotic amenities of some townes, Britain is well served by its pub, grocery, weaponsmith and armourer.''
'''Services:''' Armor shop, Weapon shop, Pub, Grocery store
Every character starts with 150 Gold Coins, a dagger and clothes. Right now, purchase only one bow/blowgun (F), then one sling (D) for every character who can equip it, then one mace (C) for who can use it. Finally, give all the throwing daggers to the wizard or the alchemist.
* '''The armory and the weapons dealer:''' buy fine armour, or trade in captured booty for gold. Please note that anytime you sell armor or weapons, you need to re-equip yourself afterwards. The two shops of weapons and armors are
** In the NES port, no enemy drops weapons or armors.
* '''The grocery:''' while the typical fare here would never be considered gourmet, the food does not spoil on long adventures.
* '''The Pub:''' Relax from a hard campaign and enjoy a cold draught. Bartenders head strange rumors some times. A few pieces of gold may loosen a tongue. Remember though, gossip is rarely totally truthful.
NES notes:
* The girl Sherry (Noriko Hasegawa) gives you a Heart Compass if you bring her some flowers (found in [[../Ambrosia/]].
* '''Sherry (Noriko Hasegawa):''' Once you have visited the lost continent of [[../Ambrosia/]] and collected a flower, go to "Royal City" (town of Britain) and give the flower to Sherry. In return she gives you a Heart Compass. Details in the [[../Ambrosia/]] page.
'''Cizitens:'''
* '''Merchants:''' The mainstay of Sosaria's prosperity. They operate the shops in town to the benefit of all. Some are not very clever, and if a sharp Thief is in your Party, then a chest or two might be stolen from under the Merchant's nose. If the Thief is caught stealing, the entire town guard will assault you.
* '''Guards:''' They resemble big bouncers at tough bars: all brawn and no brains. If a crime is detected within a town, or Lord British's castle, each Guard will pursue you to the boundaries of the place. Most Guards are very difficult to overcome, but rumors have been circulating that some Guards are not completely honest.
* '''Monster type:''' Very rarely are renegade monsters seen in towns. These monsters no longer serve the Dark, but now serve Light.
* '''Jesters:''' They entertain Lord British with their antics. Occasionally they even harass visitors.
* '''Player type:''' Any of the regular Player types may appear in the towns and castle. Speak to all of them, some hold valuable clues to the locations of hidden items.
{{-}}
=== Castle of Lord British ===
[[Image:Ultima III Lord British Castle.gif|left]]
''The Capital of Sosaria during these troubled times, this Castle is the home of Lord Cantabrigian British. Within its strong walls lies a Healer, an Oracle, and those who may possess knowledge of value to thee. Lord British himself will grant thee increased skill as thy deeds warrant it.''
'''Services:''' King, Healer, Oracle, (NES: Inn)
* '''Lord British:''' The august ruler over all the People. Widely regarded as a fair ruler, he will richly reward those who serve by his side. Talk to Lord British in order to raise levels and the maximum health points. However, you need the mark of Kings to increase past 550 HP (obtained later in the game).
* Some rooms are beyond locked doors. They can only be accessed with keys, which can be bought later at guild shops.
* Avoid the fire and force fields unless you have the respective marks.
* '''The healer:''' his restorative powers can be purchased, although the tariff is steep; a healer can cure poison, "heal health points", and even resurrect a dead patient; if the resurrection fails, the patient turns into ashes: he/she can still be revived by "raising" the remains.
** In the NES version, the healers cannot resurrect a patient turned into ashes; you have to go to the Temple in Moon for that.
;NES only
* '''Give Blood:''' You can give blood to the some healers (notably, the one in the castle): the character lose 100 HP and earns 30 GP. Repeated giving blood & healing allows to raise money faster.
* '''Inn:''' Exclusive to the NES versions of the game, you must manually opt to save your game by staying at an Inn. The original computer versions of the game save your progress every time you enter or exit a town, castle, or dungeon.
=== Fighting and exploring Sosaria ===
As soon as all characters have a weapon, their first goals should be to earn experience points (EXP) and gold pieces (GP). Every 100 EXP gained, a character gains a level; then, he/she should talk to Lord British, and the king will increase the max HP by 100. The four attributes are improved in a different way (later, in [[../Ambrosia/]].
Gold pieces can be used to purchase food and armor. Occasionally (not in the NES port), defeated enemies will also leave behind some equipment. Equip the better armors and sell the rest; sell melee weapons, as they are less useful than ranged weapons.
* '''Chain armor or better:''' cleric, fighter, ranger, paladin.
Most services are available in Britain and in the nearby castle. Therefore, there is no need to visit the other towns right now. Actually, the result would be to consume food, thus increasing your expenses.
Leave Britain and explore the mainland of Sosaria.
<center>[[Image:Ultima III Sosaria map.png]]</center>
{{col|3|begin}}
{{col|3|begin}}
{| {{prettytable}}
{|{{prettytable|notwide=1|text center=1}}
|+ Locations
|+ Towns
|-
! LB
| Lord Britsh's Castle
|-
|-
! RO
|''' LB '''|| Lord Britsh's Castle
| Town of Britain
|-
|-
! MO
|''' RO '''|| Royal city of Britain
| Town of Moon
|-
|-
! YE
|''' MO '''|| Town of Moon
| Town of Yew
|-
|-
! MW
|''' YE '''|| Town of Yew
| Montor West
|-
|-
! ME
|''' MW '''|| Montor West
| Montor East
|-
|-
! GR
|''' ME '''|| Montor East
| Grey
|-
|-
! DA
|''' GR '''|| Grey
| Dawn
|-
|-
! DV
|''' FA '''|| Fawn
| Devil Guard
|-
|-
! FA
|''' DV '''|| Devil Guard
| Fawn
|-
|-
! DE
|''' DE '''|| Death Gulch
| Death Gulch
|-
|-
! EXODUS
|''' DA '''|| Dawn
| Castle of Exodus
|}
|}
{{col|3}}
{{col|3}}
{| {{prettytable}}
{|{{prettytable|notwide=1|text center=1}}
|+ Dungeons
|+ Dungeons
! A
|''' A '''|| [[Ultima III: Exodus/Perinian Depths|Perinian Depths]]
| [[Ultima III: Exodus/Dungeon of Time|Dungeon of Time]]
|}
|}
{{col|3}}
{{col|3}}
{| {{prettytable}}
{|{{prettytable|text center=1}}
|+ Moon Gates
|+ Moon Gates
! 0 (New Moon)
|width=45%|''' (0) <br>new moon'''|| SE of Montors <br>(NW corner of map)
| SE of Montor (NW corner of the world map)
|-
|-
! 1 (Crescent waxing)
|''' (1) <br>crescent waxing'''|| Isle with dungeon of Snake/Sol
| Isle with Dungeon of Snake
|-
|-
! 2 (First Quarter)
|''' (2) <br>first quarter'''|| Enclosed valley <br>(north)
| North end of the enclosed valley
|-
|-
! 3 (Gibbous waxing)
|''' (3) <br>gibbous waxing'''|| West of Montors
| South coast, straight West of Montor
|-
|-
! 4 (Full Moon)
|''' (4) <br>full moon'''|| Enclosed valley <br>(south)
| South end of the enclosed valley
|-
|-
! 5 (Gibbous waning)
|''' (5) <br>gibbous waning'''|| Isle of Fire
| Isle of Fire; Castle of Exodus
|-
|-
! 6 (Last Quarter)
|''' (6) <br>last quarter'''|| Devil Guard
| Devil Guard
|-
|-
! 7 (Crescent waning)
|''' (7) <br>crescent waning'''|| Dungeon of Time/Moon
| Dungeon of Time
|}
|}
{{col|3|end}}
{{col|3|end}}
=== Combat tactics ===
[[File:Ultima3 combat tactic.png|frame]]
Some enemies are more powerful than others. Every enemy can move and attack diagonally, but the four heroes cannot.
An effective tactic is to put your characters in a '''square formation''': two characters with maces or daggers on the front line, two characters with ranged weapons behind them. This way, a character can be attacked by no more than two enemies.
Of course, this formation shows the priority when purchasing and equipping armor. That is, the "frontmen" need an armor as soon as possible.
'''In the NES port''', the artificial intelligence of the enemies is more limited. If you put your characters in a vertical line, all enemies will line up to attack the frontman. The other party members can then back up the first one with ranged weapons and magic missiles.
=== Pirate ships and sea enemies ===
*From the manual: ''Ships are very scarce. The Pirate fleet has sunk most of the regular ships. When you have a ship, you need to maneuver it. To sail a ship, one must learn the ways of the winds. Your ship may not sail against a wind, but must tack around it. Watch out for sudden shifts in the wind for the wind is a fickle elemental force.''
In order to get a ship, you have to fight a pirate ship. Approach the pirates so that their cannons cannon cannot hit the party (no cannon fire in the NES port).
While onboard a ship, you can '''[F]'''ire cannons to wipe out enemies that are too strong for your party, or enemies that won't drop a chest. The characters earn no experience when they fire cannons. Fighting coast enemies from aboard a ship gives a tactical advantage to your party: enemies have to line up on the boarding bridges. On the other hand, enemy encounter rate is sensibly lower when travelling by ship: the gold you earn will barely cover food expenses. Better leave the ships where the whirlpool cannot easily engulf them (e.g. a river) and proceed on foot.
Not so in the '''NES port'''. First of all, enemy encounter rate is not lowered onboard a ship and food consumption is slower. Secondly, pirate ships (and some strong enemies) start appearing only when a party member reaches level 5. Therefore, it is advisable to stay onboard as much as possible when you conquer a ship. In the NES port, the party can only have one ship at a time.
== Gathering information ==
== Gathering information ==
''Sosaria contains many secrets, most of which are designed to be discovered by you throughout your journey. You can learn much by talking to citizens of the towns, or through thorough exploration of the land itself. Beyond here, many of Sosaria's secrets will be revealed. If you do not wish to have them spoiled, do not read below this section.''
Talk to the townsfolk in all the towns of Sosaria. Apart from flavor text, people know about some specific subjects: (1) Ambrosia (incl. whirlpool and shrines); (2) Dawn and the exotic arms; (3) the four marks and the silver snake; (4) the four cards.
As soon as all your characters have 550 health points, a good weapon and a decent armor (the most expensive armors are unnecessary), you can step to the next part of the adventure.
Unfortunately, the information is fragmented and scattered; your duty is to collect all such information and put it back together. In the '''NES port''', dialogue is four times more extended, and vital pieces of information are often heard in a different town.
Talk to the townsfolk in all the towns of Sosaria. Apart from flavor text, people know about some specific subjects: (1) Ambrosia; (2) Dawn and the exotic arms; (3) the four marks and the silver snake; (4) the four cards.
Unfortunately, the information is fragmented and scattered; your duty is to collect all such information and put it back together. In the '''NES port''', dialogue is four times more extended, and vital pieces of information are often heard in a different town.
Here's a travel plan:
Furtherore, some areas in some towns are restricted. First of all, you should buy a sufficient amount of '''keys'''. The following table divides the town services found already in Britain and those exclusive to other towns.
{|{{prettytable|notwide=1|text center=1}}
{|{{prettytable|sortable=1|text center=1}}
! Towns !! Use !! Get
!colspan=4| Mainland towns
|-
! Towns <br>(clockwise) !! Britain services !! Other towns services !! NES only
|-
| Lord British castle (locked rooms) || '''Prison, oracle''' || {{n/a|-}} || Inn
|-
|''' Montor East '''|| Armories, pub || {{n/a|-}} || {{n/a|-}}
|''' Yew'''|| "Pray" command || "Pray" command <br>(NES only; need Mark of Fire)
|-
|-
|''' Dawn '''|| Armories, grocery, healer, pub || '''Magic armory, oracle''', guild, stables || Temple, inn
|''' Death Gulch'''|| Ship, bribe, keys || -
|}
|}
Furtherore, some areas in some towns are restricted. First of all, you should buy a sufficient amount of '''keys'''. The following table divides the town services found already in Britain and those exclusive to other towns.
=== Britain, the royal city ===
[[File:Ultima III Town Britain.png|right]]
The starting town is also the first place where you should look for information.
Five characters give clues about different topics. The man who says "Round back!" is suggesting to explore the back of the building.
The characters in the main halls of nearby castle offer no clues. By the way, there are three old acquaintances: the bards Iolo and Gwenno (from ''[[Ultima 1]]'') and the jester Chuckles (from the "Alternate Earth" in ''[[Ultima 2]]'').
* '''Casino:''' the Casino is a place where you can relax and gamble some of your gold. Win a bet, and you increase your wealth. Lost a bet, and it's gone for good.
{{-}}
* '''Temple:''' temples contain priests that are prepared to aid a Party on their journey to rescue Sosaria from the evil of Exodus. However, they do prefer those who are willing to leave a donation. In the NES port, thes are the only places where a character ashes can be returned to life after a healer's resurrection failed.
=== Town of Grey ===
[[File:Ultima III Town Grey.png|right]]
You probably noticed two locked doors in the castle. The only way to open them is to use some "magic" keys (known as "lockpicks" from ''[[Ultima 5]]'' onwards).
=== Mainland towns ===
Grey is located in the south-west of Sosaria. It has the feeling of a "town of outlaws": most inhabitants are thieves, and the guards talk like shady bouncers («Watch it, bub!»).
Listed traveling clockwise around Sosaria, starting from Grey, where you can purchase door keys.
==== Grey (guild shop) ====
Grey is the only easily accessible town with a '''Thieves Guild'''. It is in the back room of the pub. There, you should buy a dozen keys (there may be more than two locked doors in Sosaria). The other tools for sale will be useful later.
Grey is noteworthy as being the only easily accessible mainland town with a Thieves Guild. As well as this feature, the towne has shops selling weapons, armour, and rations, as well as the Taphouse pub.
In the south-east corner of Grey there is a '''treasure room'''. Be careful: some thieves will ambush and attack you if you go in. After the fight, all the guards in town will attack, too.
Be careful: some thieves may attack you. After the fight, all the guards in town will attack, too.
Talk to all the people and get some hints about Exotic arms.
* '''The Guild Shop:''' The Thieves Guild offers, at a high price, tools of their trade. The guild shops are difficult to locate as most towns have driven them out.
'''NES port differences:'''
* The "outlaws town" feeling is lost; the inhabitants of Grey are normal characters.
* A single character gives all the hints about the Exotic/Mystic arms; other characters talk about some items.
* No thief will ambush the party if they try and get in the treasure room. Actually, the room's entrance is blocked by two groups of heavily armoured guards.
* There is a '''casino''' behind the pub.
{{-}}
{{-}}
----
=== Castle British (locked rooms) ===
==== Town of Moon ====
[[File:Ultima III Lord British Castle.png|right]]
[[Image:Ultima III Town Moon.gif|right]]
After purchasing "magic" keys in Grey, you can go back to the castle and explore the locked rooms.
To the east is the '''prison and torture chamber''': some of the prisoners hold important information; you need a way to walk on fire if you want to question them, though.
From the throne room you can access the king's private quarters. There, you can meet '''Radrion the Oracle'''. With his vision he can provide much understanding of the occurrences in the world around you. Knowledge is a costly thing, so bring a heavy purse: 4500 GP will do. Unlock another door and you can access the moat. Use the boat there and reach the Wise Cleric, who has another important clue for you.
Description: Mysterious Moon has a reputation for being the home of Magic, yet the Magi are far and few between in this towne. The amenities are simple, with a grocer, a pub, and a healer
'''NES port differences:'''
* The prisoners in the torture chamber are peaceful. Instead of attacking the party, they will talk.
* The Oracle gives only five hints instead of ten; the total cost is 2500 GP.
* One character in the king's quarters gives a hint about a NES-exclusive pick (that replaces the "dig" command).
Notes:
* None
{{-}}
{{-}}
----
=== Town of Moon ===
==== Town of Yew ====
[[File:Ultima III Town Moon.png|right]]
[[Image:Ultima III Town Yew.gif|right]]
Moon is located far to the west from Britain.
[[File:Ultima III Yew Prayer Temple.png|right|thumb|Temple (NES version only)]]
The townsfolk give four hints about different subjects: the whirlpool, the shrines, Dawn, the "bribe" command. The latter will be necessary in two towns: the [[#Town of Montor West]] and the [[#Town of Death Gulch]].
Description: Nestled within a near complete ring of mountains, and concealed within the depths of a great forest, Yew is a quiet towne, where many come for contemplation and prayer. Concealed within the forest within which the towne has been constructed lie the Aliment Grocery, a Healer, and the Circle of Light, a place where prayers are reputed to come true.
'''NES port differences:'''
* The town features the '''temple''', the only place where a character turned into ashes can be revived.
* The "bribe" command is learned elsewhere. Instead, a woman gives a hint about entering in Death Gulch (one of the towns where you have to bribe guards).
Notes:
* Yew is hidden deep in the Mountains to the west of castle Britannia. Enter the pass on the west side of the mountainous area going east toward the castle.
* Very limited view because of the dense forest. Beware of some lava pits.
* If you have the Mark of Fire (or a lot of HP), approach the priests in the temple. They will give you the "Pray" command which can be used at the "Circle of Light". You then get the "Silver Horn" which allows you to pass the "Great Earth Serpent", guarding the entryway to "Castle Exodus".
{{-}}
{{-}}
----
=== Town of Devil Guard ===
==== Britain and royal castle ====
[[File:Ultima III Town Devil Guard.png|right]]
* '''The Oracle:''' In secluded sections of some towns dwell gifted Oracles. With their vision they can provide much understanding of the occurrences in the world around you. Knowledge is a costly thing, so bring a heavy purse.
: ''«Of marks I say there are but four of fire, force, snake, and king.
----
: ''Learn their use in Devil Guard, or death you'll surely bring.»
==== Twin Towns of Montor ====
: --- Radrion, Prophet of Life
{|
| [[Image:Ultima III Town Montor West.gif|left|frame|Montor West]]
Moon Gates allow to reach two destinations inaccessible by any other means: the lake town of Devil Guard and the dungeon of the Moon/Time (for more information, see the [[../Moongates|Moongates]] page). You can get to Devil Guard in two steps:
| '''Services:''' Armor shop, Weapon shop, Pub, Grocery store
* From either mainland moon gate (West or South-East from Montor), enter the gate when the right-hand moon phase is '''first quarter (2)'''.
* From the landlocked valley, enter any gate when the right-hand moon phase is '''last quarter (6)'''.
* To return to the mainland, enter a moon gate when the right-hand moon phase is '''gibbous waxing (3)''' or '''new moon (0)'''.
Devil Guard is a lake town made of small islets connected by bridges. Its structure reminds of Venice (in North Italy) or Esgaroth upon Long Lake (from "The Hobbit").
Depending on which version you are playing, you have different reasons to come here: on the computer ports, Radrion the Oracle sent you here; on the NES port, here you can learn the "bribe" command.
Description: The Twin Montors are warrior cities that lie opposite each other at the mouth of a southern river. The townes are very similar, and indeed can almost be considered to be one, as each lacks an essential facility that the other has. While both townes have a weapons shoppe and an armoury, groceries and rations are the sole province of Montor West, which also maintains the prison used by both cities.
Six characters will tell clues about the Marks and the Snake.
Notes:
Despite what the manual says, '''horses''' never appear in the wild. They can be only purchased in the town '''stables''' of Devil Guard (or in the magic town of Dawn). Horses simply allow to outrun enemies. They are quite expensive at game start, and they are unnecessary later.
* Montor West has a prison. You can enter it by bribing the guard (needs the "Bribe" command, which you can get from a person in "Devil Guard"). There is nothing valuable in the prison, though.
| [[Image:Ultima III Town Montor East.gif|right|frame|Montor East]]
|}
'''NES port differences:'''
* Three charactes only (instead of six) give clues about the Marks and the Snake.
* Speak to the woman in the hospital twice to learn the "Bribe" command. To access this command, open the menu, then press Select.
* Horses can actually be useful: when the party gets to level 5, pirate ships and powerful daemons start appearing; horses allow to dodge daemons while looking for a pirate ship.
Description: Lying upon a northern Island, the Towne of Fawn can not be reached save by ship. Within the towne are a healer, a grocer, a pub, and a Thieves Guild.
=== Town of Montor East ===
[[File:Ultima III Town Montor East.png|right]]
: ''«Ask about Cards in Montor.»
: --- Radrion the Oracle (NES)
'''Services:''' armoury, weapons dealer, pub.
Although the two Montors are supposed to be twin cities, Montor East lacks two services available in the other one: the grocery shop and the prison.
Notes:
Talk to all townsfolk and learn two hints about the cards (only one in the NES port). After all, Montor East is the less relevant town in Sosaria.
* Fawn can only be reached with a ship.
{{-}}
{{-}}
----
=== Town of Montor West ===
==== Town of Death Gulch ====
[[File:Ultima III Town Montor West.png|right]]
[[Image:Ultima III Town Death Gulch.gif|right]]
: ''«The cards their suits do number four, called Sol, Moon, Death and Love.
'''Services:''' Armor shop, Weapon shop, Pub, Grocery store
: ''Unto the Montors thou must go for guidance from above.»
: --- Radrion, Prophet of Life
The information in the manual is inaccurate: Montor West is a fully autonomous town, featuring five different services. In the pub the party can meet Shamino (from ''[[Ultima 1]]'') and Sentri (from the "Alternate Earth" in ''[[Ultima 2]]'').
Description: Upon an eastern island, this towne of wretched villains is carved back into the mountains themselves, making it nearly impregnable for any normal foes. Once thou hast entered the towne (bribery is useful here) thou canst seek out those with valuable knowledge, or visit the various stores. The Armoury may be raided, but take care to bribe the guards before thou doth enter.
Montor West has a '''prison'''. You can enter it by bribing the guard. Depending on which version you are playing, you can learn the "bribe" command either in Moon (computer ports) or in Devil Guard (NES port). The two prisoners hold important information about the Cards. A third character gives an indirect hint about Dawn.
Notes:
'''NES port differences:'''
* There is a big field of lava. But there is no need to talk with the person there.
* One prisoner only gives the useful hint.
* For 100 Gold you can bribe the guards. Before you can do this however, you have to get the "Bribe" command from a person in "Devil Guard".
* The indirect hint about Dawn is more difficult to understand. Note that not only Montor West has a prison, but also the Royal Castle.
* For 100 Gold you can bribe the guards. Before you can do this however, you have to get the "Bribe" command from a person in "Devil Guard".
* The bartender gives a NES-exclusive hint that is extremely important to find the Exotic/Mystic arms. Also, one character gives a hint about the NES-only flower for Noriko/Sherry.
* You can also use the way through the forest labyrinth if you don't want/can't bribe the guards.
* Shamino is replaced by his real-life alter-ego '''Richard Garriott'''. Sentri gives a real-life suggestion.
* There are lots of treasure chests near the armory. But be careful of the guards when you open the chests! It's an easy way to get much gold. Just leave the town, then re-enter and all the chests are back again.
{{-}}
{{-}}
=== Moon gates and landlocked valleys ===
=== Town of Fawn ===
* ''For more information, see the [[../Moongates|Moongates]] page.''
[[File:Ultima III Town Fawn.png|right]]
: ''«Ask about the Snake at Fawn.»
: --- Bartender in Grey (NES)
Fawn is on an island north-west of Britain. It can only be reached with a ship.
In town, four characters give hints about the Silver Snake, and in particular they teach you the "pray" command.
'''NES port differences:'''
* The "pray" command is learned in another town.
* One character gives a hint about a NES-exclusive pick (that replaces the "dig" command).
* There is a casino behind the pub.
Moon Gates allow to reach two destinations inaccessible by any other means: the lake town of Devil Guard and the dungeon of the Moon/Time.
{{-}}
=== Town of Yew ===
[[File:Ultima III Town Yew.png|right]]
[[File:Ultima III Yew Prayer Temple.png|right|thumb|Temple (NES version only)]]
[[Image:Ultima III Town Devil Guard.gif|right]]
Yew is hidden deep in the Mountains to the east of Moon. Enter the pass on the west side of the mountainous area going east from Moon.
Description: This towne is concealed within a valley entirely surrounded by impassable mountains, which can only be entered through a moongate. Within the towne are a Stable, an establishment offering both Rations and Healing, a Thieves Guild, and the Le Grogshop Pub.
Very limited view because of the dense forest. Beware of some lava pits!
Notes:
The inhabitants give no clues about the game solution, but this town features the '''Circle of Light''' you heard about in Fawn. Pray in the circle (use the "'''[O]'''ther" command), and you will learn a magic word to be yelled at the Silver Snake.
* Devil Guard is in a hidden mountain lake area, and the only way to reach it is via the Moongates.
* Speak to the woman in the hospital twice to learn the 'Bribe' command. (To access this command on the NES, press Select when viewing the main list of commands to reach a second list.)
==== Horse stables ====
'''NES port differences:'''
*From the manual: ''Most of thy Party's progress will be on foot. If you art fortunate, you could capture some of the wild horses that roam the plains. Travel on horseback is much faster than on foot.''
* Two characters give a hint about the NES-only flower for Noriko/Sherry. One of them is in a locked room within the hospital.
* If you have the Mark of Fire (or a lot of HP), approach the priests in the temple. They will teach you the "Pray" command which can be used at the "Circle of Light". You then get the "Silver Horn", a tool that replaces the "Yell" command.
* '''The stable:''' In two towns the fine horses of Lord British may be purchased. However, they are only sold in lots that match the number of the party, so they are quite expensive.
{{-}}
=== Town of Death Gulch ===
[[File:Ultima III Town Death Gulch.png|right]]
'''Services:''' Armor shop, Weapon shop, Pub, Grocery store
Despite what the manual says, horses never appear in the wild (<u>never</u> trust a game manual!). They can be only purchased in the town of Devil Guard (or in the magic town of Dawn).
From the manual: ''Upon an eastern island, this towne of wretched villains is carved back into the mountains themselves, making it nearly impregnable for any normal foes. The Armoury may be raided, but take care to bribe the guards before thou doth enter.''
Horses simply allow to outrun enemies. They are lost whenever you enter a dungeon. They are too expensive at game start, while they are unnecessary later.
The "bribe" command learned in Moon (or Devil Guard) will be necessary here. In order to enter the town, you can also use the way through the forest labyrinth and save a 100 GP bribe.
{{spoilers}}
There are no clues at all to be learned in Death Gulch. Even the character in the large fire field says nothing relevant.
Hidden within the Depths of the Forest, and concealed with Powerful Magic, the City of Dawn can be reached be travelling west from Montor West. The exact coordinates of its location can only be learned after you obtained the '''mark of fire''' in a '''[[../Dungeons|dungeon]]'''.
There are lots of treasure chests near the armory, but be careful of the guards when you open the chests! Details in the [[../Shortcuts and cheats/]] page.
{{spoiler
'''NES port differences:'''
|title=Spoiler
* Five characters give somewhat useful clues. In particular, one is about Dawn and one about the NES-only pick.
|contents=Start from the Castle of Lord British, then South 35 leagues into the forests to the south. When both Trammel and Fellucca are new, then shall Dawn appear before thee. Within the Towne are a Healer, an Oracle, a Grocery Shoppe, the Thieves Guild, a Stable, and the Ballyhoo Pub. The Weaponsmith and the Armourer are worthy of note however, as in addition to the mundane stock sold by their counterparts elsewhere, they forge and sell items of Magic.
{{-}}
* Dawn appears only when both moons are "New Moon" (configuration 0,0; for further information check the section about Moongates). To reach Dawn, you have to go 8 steps west and 35 steps south from Lord British's castle. It is located in the middle of a big forest, 8 steps west and 4 steps north of Montor West.
== Summary ==
* Alternatively, you can find this town by walking four steps north and nine steps west of Montor West.
Let's summarize all the information gathered so far:
}}
# '''Exodus:''' in order to defeat Exodus, you need three things: equip the Exotic/Mystic arms, get past the Silver Snake, use the Four Cards.
# '''Exotic/Mystic arms:''' the final clues are in the magic town of Dawn; all you know about it is that it appears with two new moons, and that it is in the large forest west of Montor; this is not enough to locate it.
# '''Silver Snake:''' in order to get past it, you have to pray in the Circle of Light in Yew and you need the Mark of Snake; this mark is in one dungeon; you are not yet powerful enough to brave a dungeon. Where can you improve your attributes?
# '''Four Cards:''' they can be found in the Shrines of Truth. Where are such shrines?
More important, in the lower right corner are three guys, each with important clues about Exotic weapons. After leaving, try to find a ship if you don't already have one. Be careful approaching a ship, as the current owners would like to keep it! Once you've secured your own ship, try digging ([O]ther Command, type "DIG") on the two-square island near the island town of Fawn.
Other topics:
* '''Whirlpool:''' someone said he/she came back from there; maybe it conceals either Ambrosia, or the Shrines, or both.
* '''Ambrosia:''' many people suggested to find it, but where is it? One possibility is that the answer lies beyond the whirlpool.
* '''Fire and force fields:''' found in Lord British's castle and in Death Gulch; some people dwell in there, and they may hold important information; you need the marks of Fire and Force to cross them, but again, you are too weak to brave the dungeons.
* '''Time Lord:''' he may hold important information; once more, you are too weak to brave the dungeons.
Notes:
The only thing that can be done now is to explore whatever lies beyond the whirlpool.
* Dawn's weapon shop has far better weapons for sale than in other towns (but they are more expensive of course).
* NES: You can find the "Gold Pick" in a treasure chest (the very left) in the guild. Be careful of guards, though!
As soon as all your characters have 550 health points, a good weapon, a decent armor (up to the chain/bronze armor), and most and foremost a ship, you can step to the second part of the adventure.
«Sosaria is the world which Lord British calls home, and it is the world which is under threat from the mysterious and enigmatic Exodus. Some areas can be reach on foot, others must be sailed to, and other still can only be accessed through the mystical Moon Gates, whose positions change according to the phases of the two moons.»
«Sosaria contains many secrets, most of which are designed to be discovered by you throughout your journey. You can learn much by talking to citizens of the towns, or through exploration of the land itself.»
Talk to the townsfolk in all the towns of Sosaria. Apart from flavor text, people know about some specific subjects: (1) Ambrosia (incl. whirlpool and shrines); (2) Dawn and the exotic arms; (3) the four marks and the silver snake; (4) the four cards.
Unfortunately, the information is fragmented and scattered; your duty is to collect all such information and put it back together. In the NES port, dialogue is four times more extended, and vital pieces of information are often heard in a different town.
Here's a travel plan:
Towns
Use
Get
Britain, the royal city
-
-
Grey
-
Keys
Lord British's castle (locked rooms)
Keys
Oracle information
Moon
-
"Bribe" command (not NES)
Devil Guard
Oracle information (not NES)
"Bribe" command (NES only)
Montor East
Oracle information
-
Montor West
Oracle information, bribe, keys
-
Fawn
Ship
"Pray" command (not NES)
Yew
"Pray" command
"Pray" command (NES only; need Mark of Fire)
Death Gulch
Ship, bribe, keys
-
Furtherore, some areas in some towns are restricted. First of all, you should buy a sufficient amount of keys. The following table divides the town services found already in Britain and those exclusive to other towns.
The starting town is also the first place where you should look for information.
Five characters give clues about different topics. The man who says "Round back!" is suggesting to explore the back of the building.
The characters in the main halls of nearby castle offer no clues. By the way, there are three old acquaintances: the bards Iolo and Gwenno (from Ultima 1) and the jester Chuckles (from the "Alternate Earth" in Ultima 2).
You probably noticed two locked doors in the castle. The only way to open them is to use some "magic" keys (known as "lockpicks" from Ultima 5 onwards).
Grey is located in the south-west of Sosaria. It has the feeling of a "town of outlaws": most inhabitants are thieves, and the guards talk like shady bouncers («Watch it, bub!»).
Grey is the only easily accessible town with a Thieves Guild. It is in the back room of the pub. There, you should buy a dozen keys (there may be more than two locked doors in Sosaria). The other tools for sale will be useful later.
In the south-east corner of Grey there is a treasure room. Be careful: some thieves will ambush and attack you if you go in. After the fight, all the guards in town will attack, too.
Talk to all the people and get some hints about Exotic arms.
NES port differences:
The "outlaws town" feeling is lost; the inhabitants of Grey are normal characters.
A single character gives all the hints about the Exotic/Mystic arms; other characters talk about some items.
No thief will ambush the party if they try and get in the treasure room. Actually, the room's entrance is blocked by two groups of heavily armoured guards.
After purchasing "magic" keys in Grey, you can go back to the castle and explore the locked rooms.
To the east is the prison and torture chamber: some of the prisoners hold important information; you need a way to walk on fire if you want to question them, though.
From the throne room you can access the king's private quarters. There, you can meet Radrion the Oracle. With his vision he can provide much understanding of the occurrences in the world around you. Knowledge is a costly thing, so bring a heavy purse: 4500 GP will do. Unlock another door and you can access the moat. Use the boat there and reach the Wise Cleric, who has another important clue for you.
NES port differences:
The prisoners in the torture chamber are peaceful. Instead of attacking the party, they will talk.
The Oracle gives only five hints instead of ten; the total cost is 2500 GP.
One character in the king's quarters gives a hint about a NES-exclusive pick (that replaces the "dig" command).
The townsfolk give four hints about different subjects: the whirlpool, the shrines, Dawn, the "bribe" command. The latter will be necessary in two towns: the #Town of Montor West and the #Town of Death Gulch.
NES port differences:
The town features the temple, the only place where a character turned into ashes can be revived.
The "bribe" command is learned elsewhere. Instead, a woman gives a hint about entering in Death Gulch (one of the towns where you have to bribe guards).
«Of marks I say there are but four of fire, force, snake, and king.
Learn their use in Devil Guard, or death you'll surely bring.»
--- Radrion, Prophet of Life
Moon Gates allow to reach two destinations inaccessible by any other means: the lake town of Devil Guard and the dungeon of the Moon/Time (for more information, see the Moongates page). You can get to Devil Guard in two steps:
From either mainland moon gate (West or South-East from Montor), enter the gate when the right-hand moon phase is first quarter (2).
From the landlocked valley, enter any gate when the right-hand moon phase is last quarter (6).
To return to the mainland, enter a moon gate when the right-hand moon phase is gibbous waxing (3) or new moon (0).
Devil Guard is a lake town made of small islets connected by bridges. Its structure reminds of Venice (in North Italy) or Esgaroth upon Long Lake (from "The Hobbit").
Depending on which version you are playing, you have different reasons to come here: on the computer ports, Radrion the Oracle sent you here; on the NES port, here you can learn the "bribe" command.
Six characters will tell clues about the Marks and the Snake.
Despite what the manual says, horses never appear in the wild. They can be only purchased in the town stables of Devil Guard (or in the magic town of Dawn). Horses simply allow to outrun enemies. They are quite expensive at game start, and they are unnecessary later.
NES port differences:
Three charactes only (instead of six) give clues about the Marks and the Snake.
Speak to the woman in the hospital twice to learn the "Bribe" command. To access this command, open the menu, then press Select.
Horses can actually be useful: when the party gets to level 5, pirate ships and powerful daemons start appearing; horses allow to dodge daemons while looking for a pirate ship.
«The cards their suits do number four, called Sol, Moon, Death and Love.
Unto the Montors thou must go for guidance from above.»
--- Radrion, Prophet of Life
The information in the manual is inaccurate: Montor West is a fully autonomous town, featuring five different services. In the pub the party can meet Shamino (from Ultima 1) and Sentri (from the "Alternate Earth" in Ultima 2).
Montor West has a prison. You can enter it by bribing the guard. Depending on which version you are playing, you can learn the "bribe" command either in Moon (computer ports) or in Devil Guard (NES port). The two prisoners hold important information about the Cards. A third character gives an indirect hint about Dawn.
NES port differences:
One prisoner only gives the useful hint.
The indirect hint about Dawn is more difficult to understand. Note that not only Montor West has a prison, but also the Royal Castle.
The bartender gives a NES-exclusive hint that is extremely important to find the Exotic/Mystic arms. Also, one character gives a hint about the NES-only flower for Noriko/Sherry.
Shamino is replaced by his real-life alter-ego Richard Garriott. Sentri gives a real-life suggestion.
Yew is hidden deep in the Mountains to the east of Moon. Enter the pass on the west side of the mountainous area going east from Moon.
Very limited view because of the dense forest. Beware of some lava pits!
The inhabitants give no clues about the game solution, but this town features the Circle of Light you heard about in Fawn. Pray in the circle (use the "[O]ther" command), and you will learn a magic word to be yelled at the Silver Snake.
NES port differences:
Two characters give a hint about the NES-only flower for Noriko/Sherry. One of them is in a locked room within the hospital.
If you have the Mark of Fire (or a lot of HP), approach the priests in the temple. They will teach you the "Pray" command which can be used at the "Circle of Light". You then get the "Silver Horn", a tool that replaces the "Yell" command.
Services: Armor shop, Weapon shop, Pub, Grocery store
From the manual: Upon an eastern island, this towne of wretched villains is carved back into the mountains themselves, making it nearly impregnable for any normal foes. The Armoury may be raided, but take care to bribe the guards before thou doth enter.
The "bribe" command learned in Moon (or Devil Guard) will be necessary here. In order to enter the town, you can also use the way through the forest labyrinth and save a 100 GP bribe.
There are no clues at all to be learned in Death Gulch. Even the character in the large fire field says nothing relevant.
There are lots of treasure chests near the armory, but be careful of the guards when you open the chests! Details in the Shortcuts and cheats page.
NES port differences:
Five characters give somewhat useful clues. In particular, one is about Dawn and one about the NES-only pick.
Let's summarize all the information gathered so far:
Exodus: in order to defeat Exodus, you need three things: equip the Exotic/Mystic arms, get past the Silver Snake, use the Four Cards.
Exotic/Mystic arms: the final clues are in the magic town of Dawn; all you know about it is that it appears with two new moons, and that it is in the large forest west of Montor; this is not enough to locate it.
Silver Snake: in order to get past it, you have to pray in the Circle of Light in Yew and you need the Mark of Snake; this mark is in one dungeon; you are not yet powerful enough to brave a dungeon. Where can you improve your attributes?
Four Cards: they can be found in the Shrines of Truth. Where are such shrines?
Other topics:
Whirlpool: someone said he/she came back from there; maybe it conceals either Ambrosia, or the Shrines, or both.
Ambrosia: many people suggested to find it, but where is it? One possibility is that the answer lies beyond the whirlpool.
Fire and force fields: found in Lord British's castle and in Death Gulch; some people dwell in there, and they may hold important information; you need the marks of Fire and Force to cross them, but again, you are too weak to brave the dungeons.
Time Lord: he may hold important information; once more, you are too weak to brave the dungeons.
The only thing that can be done now is to explore whatever lies beyond the whirlpool.
