Hi

After several months of saying I would, I have now attempted my first IF game. I am currently on my third day working my way through the original 'Adventure'. I drew a map initially but I got into such a muddle that I resorting to referring to a pre drawn one instead.

I want to get into IF in a big way and wondered if anyone could give advice on other stories that would be good to begin with or any map drawing advice?

I was considering playing 'Zork' next but wondered if that was a little ambitious at this stage.

Thank you for your help!

Adventure is an ambitious first game!
My first was Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. Found it very
challenging -- but been hooked since so can't say that's a bad thing!

For accurate maps use graph paper.
Make notes when you find an interesting object or something locked.

My advice for your next game is **Planetfall** (Infocom classic).
It is a true masterpiece. Very well-written, thoroughly enjoyable, it
is the best of IF even after all these years.

If you dig Infocom play these shorter more recent worsk:
Babel by Ian Finley
The Plant by Michael J. Roberts
Glowgrass by Nate Cull

And finally, The Gostak by Carl Muckenhoupt is a must-play game - it
is indescribable.

Download these at http://ifdb.tads.org/

I always say start small try something like the hours first- there is nothing more heart wrenching then starting an ambious game and having no clue as to what you are doing.    If you do pick a bigger game, make sure you get one with a walk-through, this way you can learn what you are doing wrong. I would avoid Zork until you complete a game like dreamhold on your own. Good luck and happy playing