If you’re a fan of “whodunit” mysteries, then Loco Motive should be right up your alley. This engaging point-and-click adventure reels you in with its vibrant lineup of characters, all expertly voiced, and an inventory brimming with items just begging to be explored. Though some of the puzzles and the pacing in later sections could use a little fine-tuning, it doesn’t throw off the overall experience. (Apologies for the unintended pun—promise it’s the last!) Ultimately, Loco Motive is an impressive game that stands out.
The plot kicks off with the murder of wealthy heiress Lady Unterwald on the Reuss Express, with suspects aplenty trapped aboard since, after all, there’s no easy way to escape a moving train. Yet, don’t for a second think you’re confined to just the train’s interiors. The game whisks you away to different locales through flashbacks, as it lets you step into the shoes of multiple characters, much like Thimbleweed Park. Watching these separate storylines weave together is genuinely rewarding.
Your adventure begins with Arthur, the victim’s lawyer, who’s on a mission to recover her will. Of course, retrieving it isn’t a walk in the park, thanks to an array of quirky characters causing obstacles along the way. Though the opener centers on a murder mystery, Loco Motive wisely plays up its E10+ rating with humor that’s sure to give you a chuckle. Next, you take on the role of Herman, a detective novelist. While I found his witty characterization amusing, his puzzles occasionally felt overly complex, requiring far more steps than seemed necessary. Then we have Diana, an agent pursuing the same case from her own angle. Compared to Herman, her segments offer more engaging scenarios and less cumbersome puzzles, leaving a lasting impression. Eventually, there are moments when all three characters work in unison, but I’ll refrain from revealing more to avoid spoilers.
One feature I’d have loved to see is a plot recap. With the story zigzagging between three characters and past and present timelines, it can get a bit perplexing, particularly if you take a break from the game. Nonetheless, the storyline is addictive, and every mystery solved and unexpected twist leads you closer to unmasking Lady Unterwald’s killer. You’ll be determined to see Loco Motive through to the end. While this genre traditionally lacks replayability, a second go-around might just reveal more.
The pixel art, albeit somewhat chunky, carries a classic allure. It successfully paints the ‘30s noir atmosphere with robust colors. While I can tout the smooth animations, it’s worth checking out a trailer to witness it firsthand—it’s simply superb. The spirited train environment and well-realized characters, even the incidental ones, add depth. I do wish some foreground elements stood out a bit more, but that’s just my nitpicky side as a genre fan; most players likely wouldn’t notice. On the audio front, the jazzy soundtrack pairs seamlessly with the action, neither intrusive nor understated. The voice acting shines, giving each character a distinct presence with expressive flair. Here’s to more voice-driven adventures!
For gamers who may not be seasoned in this genre, Loco Motive offers a direct character control option alongside the characteristic point-and-click navigation. You can also have your character run, an adjustment surely appreciated by those who aren’t fond of leisurely paced games like this. The game includes a clever hint system, using an in-game rotary phone for guidance. Fair warning—often, the hints reiterate tasks you’re already aware of or have completed, something you’ll notice early on. Nonetheless, it’s an interesting feature, albeit not flawlessly executed. Beware when Herman seeks help through the phone; expect some humorous self-deprecating comments about his pride as a detective.
Loco Motive clearly reflects the careful attention and affection invested in it. It balances staying true to classic point-and-click adventures while establishing its own unique identity. While toggling between three characters occasionally causes pacing issues and certain puzzles might not hit the mark, this dialogue-rich adventure is a delightful experience with a satisfying conclusion. Depending on your genre enthusiasm, you might adjust your rating slightly, but it’s undoubtedly a journey worth embarking on—wait, did I slip another train pun in there? No matter—Loco Motive comes highly recommended.
