Return to Mysterious Island

I have played _many_ adventure games since the invention of the 8-bit computer way back in the 1980's, both text and point-and-click, but I have never played one that is so relaxing and entertaining. The plot element is basic but extremely absorbing if you get into character, submerging yourself within the concept and the atmosphere of the game. From an artistic point of view this game is beautiful, with stunning vistas and a 360 degree seamless camera rotation that sets the atmosphere of the game perfectly. The logic puzzles are reasonably well thought out and there is a very well programmed mechanic for mixing items together in the inventory. On a final point, the pixel-hunting is minimal, and there are only a few locations where it is critical, but even then it is usually only for bonus items. If you are feeling down or stressed, I would definitely recommend this game. if you are a hard-core adventurer then this may not be the game for you. Personally I love this game and would give it a full 5... and yes I have played very many other adventure games of this type... I would still give this a 5 for effort, atmosphere and sheer enjoyment.

This was one of the first adventure games my wife and I played together, and it pulled her in despite her not identifying herself as a gamer. Even though Syberia and the Longest Journey ended up being our respective favorites, we still have fond memories of this one.

This is the only adventure game I played where I can combine items in multiple ways. It was so refreshing not to be forced to walk the path set by game developers. Usually it's you get a hammer and want to enter a room, so let's break a window. No, no, thinks the game dev. It's too easy. Let's make the player search for a key for few hours in places he/she would never expect it to find. Return To Mysterious Island is made in such a way, you can take the hammer and break the window. I'm exaggerating, but it shows how free you are to combine the items and advance the plot. I truly enjoyed playing this game. It's a bit short, but won't drive you insane with illogical puzzles.

This is a wonderful game. Smart, logical, well thought-out puzzles with multiple solutions, great atmosphere, atmospheric music, lovely graphics. And one big plus for me personally: The is practically no player initiated violence in the game. You can die, but other than that this is a very tame game. It took me 4-5 hours to complete, so that's something to keep in mind when spending money on it. If you can be motivated by bonus points for finding alternative solutions, there may be a certain replayability, but for me it's over after the first playthrough.