Another possible approach would be to modify the EXPLORE command to
give you the full information about any artifacts needed to attack
a monster in that location or sublocation. You can imagine that
exploring a location includes questioning locals about any special
sublocations or known monsters and they can tell you about any special
items needed to attack those monsters since there is probably a "local
legend" or myth regarding the monsters and items.
Michael Wang
mmwang@mv.us.adobe.com