The Land That Time Forgot

Temples to a forgotten spider god are a common sight, as is vaguely Egyptian decor.

A palmtree courtyard from an older build.

The Land That Time Forgot is the third episode of Strange Aeons, and the final destination of the main campaign. It takes place in a desert region of prehistoric earth, where the main inhabitants are savage lion men and gigantic spiders; Devils and slime-spitting Grells also appear in staggering numbers. The buildings are huge and ancient, built in an Egyptian or Babylonian style.

This is the first and most prominent appearance of the unkillable Skeleton enemy, which behaves like a Demon, but makes no sound when stalking the player.

Story

Spoiler Warning: Plot details follow.

The Traveler goes to prehistoric earth to find the mausoleum of the god that has been guiding him through his dream quest, only to discover to his horror that he has been manipulated by Atlach-Nacha, the Spinner in Darkness. The spider god wishes to escape to modern earth through the Traveler's dreams, and has lured him to its home with false visions of his son. After killing the Ancient One, the disillusioned Traveler escapes through the god's slipgate. The portal turns out to be a trap, however, stranding him in the Plateau of Leng -- the spider god has had the last laugh.

Spoilers end here.

Levels

• E3M1: Altar of Blood
• E3M2: Monster Manor
• E3M3: City of Lost Souls
• E3M4: The Gondola Grotto
• E3M5: Lions Den
• E3M6: The Vampire Trough
• E3M7: Proving Grounds
• E3M8: Flytrap
• E3M9: Tomb of the Dark Pharaoh

Inspiration and development

H.P. Lovecraft's work made many references to Ancient Egypt as well as even older, more alien civilizations existing on prehistoric earth.

Clark Ashton Smith's deity Atlach-Nacha was known for spinning a massive web that will serve as a permanent junction between the Dreamlands and the waking world.