The Phantom Fellows is the kind of game that pushes the genre forward. And in a year full of great adventure games, it’s easily my favorite. Here’s why. What starts as a fun, straightforward experience builds into something memorable—into the rare, replayable adventure game. It has a distinct personality, with sharp humor and creative writing that set it apart. It also rewards you for taking your time and soaking in the details and there is so much to see, I found myself reloading auto-saves, curious as to what I missed. The characters, puzzles, and humor all feel fresh, offering a unique take on narrative gameplay. The puzzles hit a sweet spot—challenging enough to keep you thinking but not overwhelming. The hint system is satisfying, helping you isolate the puzzle and giving you a logical starting point to solve it on your own with, which keeps the immersion intact. Only once or twice did I ask for the full solution. The puzzles themselves feel like a natural part of the story, and the game makes you feel a part of the world as you explore and pick up on clues. The writing is where the game truly shines. The dialogue is clever, funny, and full of personality. The characters are entirely unique, and they feel fresh and likable. And while the humor is front and center, after a few cases there’s also a layer of emotional depth peppered in, which made the duo feel human. The game’s got a unique voice, smart puzzles, and writing that keeps you engaged from start to finish. If you’re looking for something with humor, personality, and heart, it’s definitely worth your time.
This is a fun little return to the world of Thimbleweed Park, though it’s more of a light extension than a full game. You play as Delores, now a photographer running errands for the local newspaper, solving simple puzzles by taking photos around town. The scope is small, but it’s charming in a nostalgic way. While the game reuses assets from the original, it feels less like a sequel and more like a bite-sized bonus for fans. The puzzles are easygoing, and completing the photo tasks brings some satisfaction, but this isn’t the kind of game you’ll spend much time with. Where Delores shines is in its familiarity. If you’re already a fan of Thimbleweed Park, it’s nice to revisit the town and interact with its quirky characters. But as a standalone experience, it feels more like a short diversion than something that leaves a lasting impression. Overall, Delores offers a brief, enjoyable trip back to Thimbleweed Park. It’s great for fans looking for a quick fix of the game’s humor and atmosphere, but don’t expect anything groundbreaking.
