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

Isn’t it delightful when a game takes you by surprise? Heading into today’s review, I had certain expectations, but what I got was entirely different! While this unexpected twist has its own complexities, overall, I’m very pleased. This is largely because Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse combines several of my favorite things into one lovely package: nostalgia, the feel of those Saturday morning cartoons, and the beloved point-and-click genre. Let’s explore whether these two charming characters — which some of you might not even remember — can captivate a whole new audience.

As I fired up Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse for the first time, memories of this furry detective duo came flooding back to me. They were everywhere at one point; not knowing them would be like missing out on Ratchet and Clank or Jak and Daxter. Initially, I was braced for a platformer adventure, considering the era they hail from, filled with cartoon duos and their antics. But when I realized it was a point-and-click adventure, after momentarily grappling with a bout of the Mandela effect, it struck me that I had never actually played one of their games. Being fond of quirky logic, I was delighted to dive into something beyond platforming. It’s worth noting that this game brings its own set of challenges, not for me — since I’m a bit of a masochist with these things — but definitely for those who’ve never delved into this genre before.

Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse is brought to us by the brilliant minds at Telltale Games, evident right away from its well-crafted narrative. Here’s where that Saturday morning cartoon vibe kicks in — it’s like living through five episodes of your top animated series. But be warned, the content leans more toward adult themes. Max, the sociopathic bunny who detests the “b” word, is amusingly the president, while Sam, his dog detective counterpart, provides a bit more decorum and has the unenviable job of keeping Max in line. Mastering their dynamics is essential if you plan on getting through this mind-twisting game.

I’m hesitant to dive too deeply into the plot of Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse. Discussing it would spoil the experience, as the game is heavy on narrative and puzzles. Suffice it to say, Max gains psychic abilities, there’s an alien ape with a penchant for chaos, and together, you’ll need to save the universe. The whole scenario feels like a mix from the Twilight Zone series. Intrigued? Good, that’s all you get until you give it a try!

In classic point-and-click fashion, you’ll guide the duo through different scenes, interacting with various NPCs and gathering items. Much like other games in this style, even if you deduce a puzzle’s solution, implementing it can be a whole other challenge. This is where the delightful moon logic comes into play. Sometimes the answers to straightforward puzzles are hidden in the least obvious solutions. It’s fantastic fun for those who enjoy lateral thinking, but it might be maddening for those eager for swift progress.

The brain teasers and complex puzzles in Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse add significant longevity to the game. Although it’s just five episodes, the time you’ll spend unraveling its conundrums will be hefty. I’m still stuck in episode one, not for lack of trying, but I’m currently at a stalemate. A lover of this genre, I know this feeling all too well. A little break usually does the trick to unravel what I’ve missed. Resist the temptation to consult guides, folks; playing spoiler-free will preserve the game’s allure.

You’ll primarily use Sam to explore and initiate chats with characters, while Max, armed with his mental skills, will solve intricate puzzles. As the adventure unfolds, Max acquires magical toys that bestow powers essential for progressing the storyline. Your journey begins with a toy giving Max glimpses of the future — not exactly a hint button but tremendously helpful, so use it whenever you can.

Visually, Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse is stunning. It’s vibrant and masterfully animated, capturing the essence of a 2000s cartoon. I can’t commend it enough. The soundscape perfectly complements the game’s style, and the voice acting, often a hit-and-miss in many games, is right on the mark here. It feels reminiscent of what a top-tier gaming experience felt like about twenty years ago. Everything from the controls to the UI works seamlessly, leaving little to critique.

In a nutshell, if you’re a fan of the point-and-click genre, this game is a must-play. It delivers everything fans crave from this type of game along with a compelling story. However, if you prefer straightforward puzzles or are new to this genre, approach with caution. While it’s a fabulous title and we’re keen to welcome newcomers to point-and-click games, it’s challenging and might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Those who don’t appreciate narrative-heavy games might want to steer clear; this game revels in its plot-driven experience. Despite these considerations, Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse ranks among my top games for 2024. Highly impressive indeed.

This review is based on a retail copy provided by the publisher.

Ratings

• Look and Feel: 10/10
• Story: 9/10
• Challenge: 9/10
• Controls and UI: 10/10

Total: 9.5/10

Summary
Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse is a prime example of puzzling brilliance. I highly recommend diving into it, though bear in mind the unique complexity that point-and-click games can sometimes present. Those who prefer clear-cut puzzles may struggle, and be prepared for a hefty dose of dialogue. It’s all part of the charm and what makes the game enjoyable. All things considered, it’s a highly rewarding experience that I’m looking forward to completing.