Loco Motive, presented by Chucklefish and Robust Games, brings a captivating 2D point-and-click mystery to the Nintendo Switch, serving up a delicious slice of whodunit intrigue reminiscent of classic titles like Monkey Island and Sam and Max. This Loco Motive review delves into how the game, with its compelling pixel art and immersive voice acting, draws players into its vintage charm. Originally conceived during a two-week game jam for AdvXJam 2020 on itch.io, creators Adam and Joseph at Robust Chicken were so taken with their creation that they decided to flesh it out into the full game we have today.
The adventure kicks off aboard a train where the elderly heiress, Lady Unterwalf, is poised to announce her heir. But calamity strikes—a murder in the darkness of a tunnel on the Reuss Express. You’re left to unravel the mystery playing as three intriguing characters: Arthur Ackerman, a no-nonsense lawyer played by Sean Chiplock, Herman Merman, a crime novelist turned inexperienced detective voiced by Brent Mukai, and Diana Ostman, an undercover agent portrayed by Savy Des-Etages.
Your journey commences with Arthur Ackerman, who is promptly viewed as the prime suspect. An interrogation by the police lays the groundwork for the mystery ahead, leaving Arthur, unfortunately, shackled to a desk. It’s here new players can get acquainted with the gameplay mechanics of Loco Motive while trying to orchestrate a sly escape.
Featuring the charm of classic point-and-click adventures, the game offers controls that include using the left analog stick for character movement, interacting with elements using the A button, and navigating through interactive hotspots via the L and R buttons. You can even run, should the mood take you, with the ZL or ZR buttons.
The puzzles, a staple of the genre, are intricate yet satisfying. For example, freeing Arthur from his chains involves an engaging puzzle. After confirming no one is watching, it’s time to get creative. A quick scan of the room reveals hotspots, including a trench coat to the left holding some keys—your means to freedom. The challenge lies in reaching them unnoticed.
This early escape mission requires some crafty item combination. Nearby, you find books, cigarette stubs, a trash can, a newspaper, and a fan. After dismissing trash scavenging, you combine the fan and newspaper to create an air funnel, cleverly used to knock an umbrella from the coat rack, which you then use to snag the keys. What follows is a mystery that only gameplay can reveal.
Loco Motive delights in offering a nostalgic ride through its intricate plot, following the tradition of beloved series like Monkey Island. Its gripping storyline begins on a train, with Lady Unterwalf’s untimely murder, hidden from the eyes of onlookers in the darkness of the Reuss Express tunnel.
You’ll journey alongside three unique characters—a disciplined lawyer, a novice detective, and a secret spy—as you strive to solve the murder mystery before time runs out. For an added dramatic touch, Noir Mode transforms the game’s presentation to a timeless black-and-white aesthetic. Now available on the Nintendo Switch for $17.99, Loco Motive promises a thrilling escapade for fans of classic point-and-click adventures.
Please note, this review is based on a copy of Loco Motive provided by Chucklefish for the Nintendo Switch.
