EVALUATION / Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse (PC)

Isn’t it great when things don’t go as planned, but turn out even better than you expected? That was my experience today. I went into this review with one idea in mind, only to find myself delightfully surprised. Sure, there were a few bumps along the way, but overall, it was fantastic. The reason? Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse manages to blend several of my beloved elements: nostalgia, the charm of Saturday morning cartoons, and the engaging point-and-click genre, all wrapped into one delightful package. Let’s dive in and see if these two quirky characters can win over a new generation of fans.

As I launched Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse for the first time, echoes from the past came rushing back. These furry detectives were once everywhere, making them as unforgettable to some as icons like Ratchet and Clank or Jak and Daxter. Initially, I braced myself for a platformer experience, considering the era these characters hail from, when animated duos often leapt into platforming escapades. Imagine my surprise when I found myself steeped in a point-and-click adventure instead! After shaking off a brief jaunt of the Mandela effect, I realized this was my first foray into their gaming world. And as a fan of challenging puzzles and logic, switching gears from platforming felt right. However, I soon recognized that newcomers to this genre might find its complexity daunting.

Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse is a creation from Telltale Games, and that unmistakably shines through in its exceptional storytelling. It’s like stepping into five energetic episodes of an animated series. Yes, the narrative is more mature than a typical kids’ show, yet the vibe is spot on. Discovering Max’s chaotic charm—a bunny with a disdain for the “b” word who’s also somehow the president—and Sam’s more grounded detective demeanor offers a dynamic duo dynamic that you have to master to advance in this brain-twisting journey.

Don’t worry, I’m not going to spoil the story for you. Delving into Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse is best done without knowing too much, as this puzzle-laden narrative thrives on its surprises. Just a hint: Max gets some mind-bending abilities, there’s a villainous alien ape on the loose, and the fate of the universe hangs in the balance. It’s got all the suspense of a Twilight Zone episode. Curious? You’ll just have to play to discover more.

True to the point-and-click tradition, you’ll navigate our heroes through various scenes, chatting up NPCs and scavenging for clues. However, as fans of this genre know all too well, solving puzzles isn’t as straightforward as merely spotting an answer. Here, moon logic reigns—commonly rendering simple solutions elusive and demanding of lateral thinking. While veterans of the genre will relish the mental gymnastics, those who prefer a more direct approach might find it frustrating.

The problem-solving required in Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse ensures it has a long shelf life. On paper, five chapters might seem brief, but the intricate puzzles can stretch out your playtime substantially. I’m still entrenched in episode one—not from lack of trying, but because I’m temporarily stymied. Being familiar with this scenario, I know a fresh perspective often reveals the answer, hence my refusal to resort to guides. Trust me, seeking walkthroughs could dilute your enjoyment.

Most of the exploration relies on Sam, the one who strikes up conversations. Yet, you’ll require Max’s newfound mental powers to crack the game’s intricate puzzles. As he secures magical toys, he gains special abilities crucial for progress. Our adventure begins with a toy granting Max glimpses into the future—which acts less like a spoiler but more like a nudge in the right direction.

Visually, Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse is stunning, with vibrant animation that feels like stepping inside a cartoon from the 2000s. Everything from the graphics to the sound fits perfectly, and the top-notch voice acting is as immersive as in a top-tier title from a couple of decades ago. Controls and user interface? Seamless, leaving no room for complaint.

In short, if you love point-and-click adventures, don’t miss out on this game. It holds all the nostalgia and story-rich elements you’d desire from the genre. But a word of caution to those new to this style or preferring simpler puzzles: approach with care. It’s marvelous for those of us who thrive on complex storylines—but the challenges might test your patience if you favor speedy progression. That said, Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse has cemented itself as one of my favorite games of 2024. Truly impressive.

This review is based on a retail copy of the game provided by the publisher. With a delightful mix of engaging narratives and tricky puzzles, Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse offers riveting fun indeed, earning high marks—look and feel: 10/10, story: 9/10, challenge: 9/10, and controls: 10/10. It’s an outstanding puzzler well worth your time, demanding patience but offering high rewards for those who dare to master it.