Rediscover Monkey Island: The Ultimate Adventure Awaits!

Return to Monkey Island is a 2D point-and-click adventure game released on September 19, 2022, for macOS, Windows, and Nintendo Switch. It later became available on Linux, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, iOS, and Android. Developed by Terrible Toybox and published by Devolver Digital in collaboration with Lucasfilm Games, it is the sixth installment in the Monkey Island series and marks the return of series creator Ron Gilbert, who had last worked on Monkey Island 2: LeChuck's Revenge in 1991. The game was co-written by Dave Grossman, another veteran of the series.

Gameplay

The game retains classic point-and-click mechanics while modernizing its interface. Players control Guybrush Threepwood, a pirate navigating the Caribbean during the Golden Age of Piracy. The gameplay involves solving puzzles through exploration, dialogue with non-player characters, and item collection. A hint system is included to reduce reliance on external guides, and a simplified "casual mode" caters to less experienced players.

Story

The narrative picks up after Tales of Monkey Island and serves as a continuation of LeChuck's Revenge. Guybrush embarks on a quest to finally uncover the secret of Monkey Island. Along the way, he revisits iconic locations like Mêlée Island (now under new management) and explores new territories such as Brrr Muda and Terror Island. Familiar characters like Elaine Marley, LeChuck, and Murray return alongside new ones like Captain Madison and her crew.

The story is framed as Guybrush recounting his adventures to his son Boybrush. The plot includes infiltrating LeChuck's crew, racing against rival pirates for the secret's location, and unraveling mysteries that culminate in an unexpected twist revealing the adventures as part of a theme park simulation.

Reception

The game received generally positive reviews for its humor, nostalgic appeal, engaging puzzles, and modernized controls. Its art direction and music were also praised, with contributions from composers Michael Land, Peter McConnell, and Clint Bajakian.

Return to Monkey Island stands out as a nostalgic yet fresh addition to the beloved franchise, offering a blend of classic gameplay with contemporary design elements.