Developer: Terrible Toybox | Publisher: Devolver Digital | Platform: Xbox Series X|S
Rating: 9/10
A Clever, Nostalgic Voyage That Still Has New Tricks
Return to Monkey Island brings Guybrush Threepwood’s swashbuckling misadventures to the Xbox Series X|S in a revival that’s equal parts nostalgic tribute and modern reimagining. Ron Gilbert, the series’ original creator, returns to helm the project, and it shows in the game’s sharp writing, clever puzzles, and undeniable heart.
Visuals & Presentation
The most immediate change longtime fans will notice is the art style. Gone are the pixelated shores of Melee Island or the painted backdrops of the early 2000s. Instead, Return to Monkey Island opts for a distinctive, storybook aesthetic — stylized and quirky. While this change was divisive at first, it suits the game’s tone and helps breathe fresh life into the series on modern consoles. Running on Xbox Series X|S, the game is smooth, crisp, and looks great in 4K.
Gameplay & Controls
This is classic point-and-click gameplay with modern refinements. Puzzle difficulty is smartly balanced, and a built-in hint system ensures you’re never truly stuck, which is a godsend for players new to the genre. The controls have been thoughtfully adapted for the Xbox controller, making inventory management and dialogue navigation intuitive and snappy — a huge improvement over older console ports of point-and-click games.
Story & Humor
The writing is the heart of the game, and Return to Monkey Island delivers in spades. It’s packed with witty dialogue, self-aware jokes, and absurd scenarios that channel the spirit of the original games. It’s both a love letter to fans and a story accessible to newcomers, weaving nostalgia into a tale that feels surprisingly fresh. Guybrush’s quest to finally uncover the “real” Secret of Monkey Island hits all the right notes — sentimental, funny, and occasionally profound.
Performance
On Xbox Series X, load times are practically nonexistent, and the game runs flawlessly. Even on Series S, performance is solid with quick loading and consistent frame rates. The audio is crisp, the voice acting is top-notch (with Dominic Armato reprising his iconic role), and the soundtrack strikes the perfect balance between classic motifs and new compositions.
Final Thoughts
Return to Monkey Island is a triumphant comeback — not just for Guybrush Threepwood, but for the classic point-and-click genre. It blends old-school charm with modern sensibilities, offering an experience that’s satisfying whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer. While some may still be on the fence about the visual style, it’s hard to deny the game’s heart, wit, and sheer quality.
Pros:
- Smart, funny writing
- Well-designed puzzles with modern conveniences
- Great performance and controller adaptation
- Excellent voice acting and music
Cons:
– Art style may not click with everyone
– Some puzzles can still feel a bit obscure
Verdict:
If you’ve ever sailed with Guybrush before, you owe it to yourself to return. And if you haven’t, there’s never been a better time to set sail.
Jimmy's Deals 