Gothic 1 drops you into a harsh, believable world and refuses to hold your hand. The kingdom of Myrtana is at war and in desperate need of ore, so criminals are sent to a giant penal colony near Khorinis, sealed by a magical barrier two kilometers across. The barrier keeps prisoners in and prevents escape - until the inmates revolt. The Colony fractures into three rival factions, power becomes a currency, and survival depends on quick wits, alliances and steel. You begin as a nameless convict thrust through the barrier; from there you must find your place, pick sides, and, if you can, find a way out.