First, a review of the new composition and binding. The hardbound volume is very nice, in the style of the 3rd edition Dungeons & Dragons books. The cover illustrations are on an enclosed piece of cardboard, but not in the book itself. The interior of the modules have been reproduced almost exactly. I noticed that the resolution of some of the pictures (for example the front illustration of S1) is lower and a bit pixelated. Also, the 4 illustrations in S3 that were color are black and white. There was a full page illustration of the fight between the baboonoids, the characters, and the shambling mounds that is now cut to one page (doesn't appear to include all the original picture). Those are the only discrepancies I noticed casually. Overall, I am very pleased with the presentation. If I were to run one of these to players, I would want to get copies of the maps and some accessories so that I am not constantly flipping pages.

All four of these modules were favorites of me when I was introduced to the hobby in the early 80's. I will review them each individually.

S1 Tomb of Horrors is probably one of my favorite modules of all time (S3 as you will see below is also highly favored). I loved the deathtrap dungeon, the colors (the forest green with the zombie like being fighting a cleric and fighter, with the classic shield design), the artwork that were used to describe the dungeon. I have led a group of adventurers through most of this module once, and it was quite a challenge for them.

S2 White Plume Mountain was a bit of a disappointment to me originally. Only 16 pages long but full price. However, these 16 pages are jam packed with wonky ideas for a dungeon and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it again. I have never led a group through this adventure. I wonder what a successful campaign has looked like, and if the dungeon master elaborated and expanded the material available.

S3 Expedition to the Barrier Peaks was a great favorite of mine. I remember when I first saw a copy (when I was in junior high). I thought the combination of technology with fantasy was awesome. I have always been a bit intimidated with the shear complexity required to run this adventure. I have started out at least one adventure in this module, but didn't get any further then the first level. There is quite a bit for the dungeon master to be aware of to make this a fun and exciting adventure - I believe the experience requirements for the dungeon master are equivalent or higher then the experience requirements for the players. I would love to one day lead a campaign group through this adventure, ideally one set in my customized World of Greyhawk that has developed from the beginning.

S4 When I first saw this module, I was overjoyed about the double booklet format, with one booklet completely devoted to new monsters, treasure, and special artifacts. I loved the classic adventure feel of this module, with the mixture of outdoor adventuring and cavern exploration. After my recent read through the module, I have to suspend disbelief in the great number of encounters in closely located spaces. I know that this is the way of many adventure modules, and I noticed it particularly in this read through. I started one adventure with only one player; it was the only time I played with this particular player and he had a different manner, with diplomacy and thought, rather then my expected hack and slash. I have tried to incorporate and teach this type of play since then.

Overall, I am very happy with this copy of four excellent adventure modules. I hope that digital copies of each of these books is provided soon at drivethrurpg.com (they weren't available at my last check). My purpose for that would be reproduction of maps and aids for game play. ( )