Classic Game That Nearly Killed CRPGs Re-Releases After 22 Years

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A beloved but challenging game, once thought to signal the end of traditional computer role-playing games, has returned after being unavailable for 22 years. Remakes are common now, with even older, less well-known titles getting a second chance. This includes a game from 2003 that was one of the first to use the Dungeons & Dragons rules, though it was initially plagued with problems. Thankfully, those issues and others have now been fixed in a new release.

On December 10, 2025, SNEG unexpectedly released a completely revamped version of the classic game, The Temple of Elemental Evil, exciting Dungeons & Dragons fans. The original Temple of Elemental Evil was released by Atari in 2003 and was the first video game to utilize the 3.5 edition rules. It also marked the first time players could explore the Greyhawk campaign setting, based on the tabletop campaign of the same name originally published by TSR, Inc. in 1985, but using the older 1st edition rules. Now, after over 20 years, the game has returned with all known issues fixed.

The Temple of Elemental Evil Is Back and Available on Steam

When The Temple of Elemental Evil initially launched, it was riddled with problems, leading some to believe it would signal the end of classic role-playing games. Luckily, that didn’t happen. Though the game didn’t live up to hopes, it still attracted a loyal following. It was a groundbreaking title, being one of the first CRPGs to use a turn-based combat system and staying true to the original campaign and rules. This new version is thanks to dedicated modders who have spent years improving the game, applying over 1,000 fixes and enhancements. The result is a remake that’s significantly better than the original release.

The classic video game, The Temple of Elemental Evil, based on Dungeons & Dragons, has been re-released! You can watch the official trailer now. #DnD #DungeonsAndDragons #RetroGames

— Bleeding Cool (@bleedingcool) December 10, 2025

This updated version is much more stable than the initial release, which had a lot of issues. It now includes AI-powered improvements for smoother gameplay, a better user interface, and several small changes to make the experience more enjoyable. Like the original tabletop campaign it’s based on, this game is a large, open-ended dungeon crawl focused on exploration – something that was difficult to achieve with the technology available in 2003. Thanks to the dedicated modding community and modern tools, including AI, the game is now a complete and accurate adaptation of Gary Gygax and Frank Mentzer’s classic World of Greyhawk.

The game takes place in a land haunted by the remnants of an ancient evil. Years ago, a powerful demoness and her followers were defeated and their temple destroyed. Now, bandits are causing trouble in the town of Hommlet, and a dark presence is rising again at the ruined temple. Players will lead a party of adventurers to uncover the truth behind these events and stop a reborn evil from plunging the land into chaos. Whether you’re a dedicated Dungeons & Dragons player or just enjoy classic computer RPGs like Baldur’s Gate III, this game is worth checking out, especially if you appreciate faithful adaptations of D&D rules. The Temple of Elemental Evil is currently available on Steam for $9.99.

I’m so excited about revisiting The Temple of Elemental Evil! If you are too, let’s chat about it over on the ComicBook Forum – leave a comment and join the discussion!

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2025-12-14 17:14