Review: Loco Motive for Nintendo Switch

“Loco Motive” embodies everything I love about graphic adventure games. This charming point-and-click title introduces a vibrant ensemble of fully voiced characters, an extensive inventory, and an abundance of interactive elements. While a few late-game puzzles and pacing issues may slow the journey, they never truly derail the experience. (That’s my only pun, promise!) Overall, “Loco Motive” makes a strong impression that is hard to forget.

The game sets its mysterious stage aboard the Reuss Express, where the wealthy heiress, Lady Unterwald, meets an untimely demise. Suspects are aplenty, primarily stuck on the speeding train, but don’t be fooled—there are diverse locations to explore while riding the rails. Through flashbacks, you even get to step into the shoes of other characters, offering a multi-character perspective akin to that in “Thimbleweed Park.” Watching these intertwining stories unfold is immensely enjoyable.

Players first take on the role of Arthur, Lady Unterwald’s lawyer, who is tasked with the tricky job of retrieving her will. The colorful cast of characters he meets on this quest makes things anything but straightforward, adding delightful humor to the mix despite the grim circumstances. Next, you play as Herman, a detective novelist whose puzzles often teeter on the edge of perplexing. Sometimes, fewer steps would have enhanced clarity. Finally, you switch to Diana, an agent investigating the case from her unique angle. Her sections are more engaging, with memorable puzzles and dynamic set-pieces. Towards the game’s climax, there are chances for these characters to collaborate, but I’ll leave those surprises for you to discover on your own.

One thing I wish the game offered is a plot recap. With its three protagonists threading through past and present narratives, things can get a tad convoluted if you step away from your console for a time. Nevertheless, the storyline is compelling, and each solved mystery and twist draws you closer to unravelling the pivotal question: who killed Lady Unterwald? You’ll find yourself eager to see the adventure to its conclusion, and although replayability isn’t a hallmark of this genre, a second playthrough might reveal even more insights.

Visually, the pixel art captures a timeless beauty, perfectly coloring the ’30s noir atmosphere. The animation quality speaks for itself—it’s best appreciated by watching a trailer to see it come alive. The train feels bustling with energy, and even the side characters seem intentional and integral. While some foreground elements could stand out more distinctly, that’s just my nitpicking. Many players probably wouldn’t notice. The audio perfectly complements the visual experience, with jazzy tunes and robust voice acting bringing each character to life with vibrant expression. Indeed, long live the talkie adventure!

For those who might not be well-versed in the genre, “Loco Motive” offers direct character control as an option, as well as a running feature, catering to those frustrated by the often slow pace of point-and-click games. It also boasts an elegant hint system via an in-game rotary phone, helping players get back on track. While the hints sometimes restate information already achieved, their inclusion is still a thoughtful touch. Just a heads-up, though—when playing as Herman, expect some humorous interplay with his pride as a detective should you reach out for advice.

The devotion and meticulous care poured into “Loco Motive” are palpable. This high-quality title honors its point-and-click roots while establishing its own unique identity in the graphic adventure landscape. Despite a few hiccups in pacing and puzzle satisfaction, “Loco Motive” offers a rich, fun experience with a gratifying payoff. Depending on your enthusiasm for the genre, you might rate it slightly higher or lower, but regardless, it’s a journey worth embarking on. Did I accidentally make another pun there? Either way, consider this a strong recommendation for “Loco Motive.”