Fighting Fantasy: The Gates of Death

This is a brand new addition to the world famous Fighting Fantasy series of books. Unlike traditional story books, Steve Jackson and Ian Livingstone’s Fighting Fantasy concept invites readers to take control of the narrative themselves. Like a computer game, readers/players have to make decisions throughout the book, in order to complete challenges and move forwards through their own quest. They have to collect weapons and provisions in order to survive battles (using dice) with mythical creatures and save the land of Allansia from a terrifying demonic plague!

Like all classic Fighting Fantasy reads, The Gates of Death is an adventure that requires readers to think critically, take risks and, most of all, persevere when the going gets tough. The wonderful complexity of the storylines, and the sophisticated plot possibilities, means that it is extremely challenging to complete the book without being eaten, murdered or turned into a demon!

As well as the exciting and original concept, Higson’s story offers genuinely interesting characters – some of whom are truly frightening. Angry, drunken dwarves tussle with ferocious demon dogs and two-faced monsters, whilst mysterious beggars, scholars and strangers offer to help the hero on his/her way…but how do you know which ones to trust?

Higson has succeeded in re-energising a classic series, and many new readers will now be encouraged to explore the back catalogue of Fighting Fantasy quests. The Gates of Death is a brilliant combination of geeky gameplay and epic adventure, which readers will be queueing up to try and complete. Perhaps the biggest challenge of all for young readers will be trying to stop mums and dads from reading it all before they do!