Combat

Level
The hero's combat level is shown onscreen beside the sword. Enemies have their level over their heads. When the hero collides with an enemy, the one with the greater level survives, with the hero winning ties.

A skull indicates a combat level of 100 or greater. (For enemies, this is usually exactly 100.)

The hero's level can be increased by collecting swords.

Enemies flee from a hero that is 25 or more levels above them (not counting temporary bonuses).