How Good Was…Monkey Island
Comedy and computer games rarely go hand in hand, and even more scarcely does it work. However, with its unique charm (the game’s copy protection came with a “dial-a-pirate” code wheel) and quirky dialogue, 1990’s The Secret of Monkey Island is extremely funny. Created by LucasArts, the game is one in a long line of critically acclaimed and hugely influential adventure games produced by the famous developers. Indiana Jones and the Fate of Atlantis, Monkey Island 2 and latterly Grim Fandango are all arguably as brilliantly realised but it is the original Monkey Island that is held in the highest esteem by most point-and-click veterans.
The story follows the hapless Guybrush Threepwood and his feeble attempts at becoming a pirate in the Caribbean before he is caught up in a rescue mission to Monkey Island. Along the way you meet a cast full of memorable characters; from the hilarious boat salesman Stan to Threepwood’s arch enemy Ghost Pirate LeChuck. The game follows the standard point-and-click formula; progression achieved by collecting and using items, conversing with other characters and a little bit of trial and error. Like all classic adventures, Monkey Island’s puzzles are challenging and sometimes frustrating, but the solutions are always logical. In true LucasArts tradition, the sound design is brilliantly distinctive, the music playful and evocative.
While hailed for its graphics at the time, the look of Monkey Island has inevitably dated over time. However, this should not put players off giving it a go as Ron Gilbert’s timeless dialogue and sense of humour stands the test of time. And for people that can’t hack the pixelated pirates, an upgraded version of the game was recently released with the snazzy option of being able to switch to the original at the touch of a button. This is a lovely touch and a nostalgic reminder of LucasArts’ class and originality.
It is difficult to put across how significant Monkey Island was at the time as in today’s gaming world of bombastic spectacle, the point-and-click genre appears to be solely the realm of purists. Attempting to play Monkey Island now, it really hits home how much games have changed. For many it will be a frustration to play as although it is a bona-fide classic, the patience required is completely at odds with the pace and excitement of modern day gaming. The satisfaction gained from solving a puzzle in Monkey Island after hours of frustration is entirely different to the thrill of a gunfight atop a train in Uncharted 2. Is there room for both?
Never really got much of the way into Monkey Island, as I’ve only picked it up retrospectively and you are right, it does require patience that I don’t have. Might give the iPhone rerelease a spin though…