Tom and the Ghost Overview
Tom and the Ghost is a DOS game set in a Scottish castle where a young boy's mother has been taken by a sorcerer. The player controls the spectral Sir Reginald Arrow, who must rescue her within a day to prevent a dark ritual. Exploration involves navigating the castle to gather various objects, from weapons to comfort items, which are often hidden behind large doors alongside hazards or clues.
Sir Arrow can perform basic actions like walking and jumping, while also managing inventory and combat. A key secondary concern is Tom himself, who accompanies the ghost but requires constant attention. His mood and energy levels must be maintained with specific items; if neglected, he becomes less helpful or even a liability. The player must monitor his status and use a whistle to keep him from wandering off.
Survival depends on dealing with numerous enemies that attack the ghost's life energy, making the gameplay challenging. Success hinges on a combination of combat, puzzle-solving using found items, and careful supervision of the child, all under a strict time limit to achieve the final goal of rescue and revenge.