Play Dragonriders of Pern Online – MS-DOS Game

Game Overview

Dragonriders of Pern is a strategic MS-DOS game based on Anne McCaffrey’s beloved fantasy series, blending diplomacy and action in a fight against the deadly Thread. The game unfolds in two key phases: a strategic negotiation segment where players forge alliances with Lord Holders and Craftsmasters through events like Hatcheries or weddings, and a real-time combat phase where riders battle Threadfall atop dragons. Diplomacy is crucial—failed negotiations may force duels, but aggression risks alienating allies. Threadfighting tests reflexes, as players must incinerate falling Thread before it devastates the land.

Set in Pern’s rich universe, the game offers adjustable difficulty and victory conditions, from earning points via alliances to surviving Thread infestations. Its mix of political maneuvering and aerial combat captures the spirit of the novels, making it a unique entry among early ’90s strategy games. Whether navigating intrigue or airborne threats, players must balance wit and skill to protect Pern.

Dragonriders names

When it’s time to choose your identity as Weyrleader, you’ll be asked to enter your character’s name. Keep it short — no more than eight characters — and follow the traditional dragonrider style, which includes an apostrophe in the second or third letter (examples: F’lar, Sh’gall, T’bor).

After that, you’ll name your dragon. You can use up to ten characters, and remember: authentic dragon names always end in “th” — like Mnementh, Kadith, or Orth.

Each game uses different controls, most DOS games use the keyboard arrows. Some will use the mouse , "Alt" ,"Enter" and "Space bar".