Chucklefish and Robust Games bring us “Loco Motive,” a delightful throwback to classic point-and-click adventures, now available on Nintendo Switch. In this review, we take a closer look at what makes this pixelated mystery a standout.
At first glance, “Loco Motive” may remind players of legendary titles like the “Monkey Island” series or “Sam and Max.” However, it manages to carve out its own niche without leaning too heavily on those iconic influences. Its retro pixel art style is immediately eye-catching, and the voice acting adds a vibrant layer to the experience. Interestingly, the game originated as a concept during a two-week game jam on itch.io. Adam and Joseph at Robust Chicken enjoyed developing it so much that they decided to transform it into a full-fledged game.
The story kicks off on a train with an intriguing premise: Lady Unterwalf, a wealthy heiress, plans to disclose her will. But, in a dramatic twist, she’s murdered in plain sight as the train plunges into darkness within a tunnel. The plot thickens as players switch between three unique characters – Arthur Ackerman, a no-nonsense lawyer; Herman Merman, a crime writer-turned-detective; and Diana Ostman, an undercover spy. Each comes alive with the vocal talents of Sean Chiplock, Brent Mukai, and Savy Des-Etages.
Your adventure begins with Arthur Ackerman, who quickly finds himself the main suspect in the murder. An interrogation scene sets the stage for your journey, as the police leave Arthur alone, chained to a desk. This is your cue to learn the game’s mechanics as you attempt to escape.
In typical point-and-click fashion, you’ll navigate using the left analog stick, interacting with characters and objects via the A button, and speeding up the process by cycling through interactive hotspots with the L and R buttons. The right analog stick is also handy for switching between these hotspots.
Solving puzzles forms the backbone of the game. Early on, you must figure out how to free Arthur from his chains, offering a chance to familiarize yourself with Loco Motive’s puzzle-solving style. By interacting with the environment and strategically combining items like a newspaper and a desk fan, you’ll find creative solutions to seemingly impossible challenges.
You’ll also come across an intriguing feature: Noir Mode. Engage this setting to transform the visuals into a classic black-and-white style, enhancing the game’s nostalgic charm. Priced at $17.99, “Loco Motive” invites you to unravel its mysteries now on Nintendo Switch.
Enthusiasts of the genre will likely appreciate both the homage it pays to its predecessors and the freshness it brings to the table. If you’re a fan of whodunit intrigue with a vintage vibe, “Loco Motive” might just be the ticket you’re looking for.
Note: This review was crafted based on a Nintendo Switch version of “Loco Motive” provided by Chucklefish.
