Despite some peaks and valleys, The Plucky Squire is a book worth getting lost in. I would certainly recommend the game, especially to families and those with little kids who might enjoy playing in the passenger seat. Even for those out there who are kids at heart, there’s plenty to enjoy—just be sure to stick it out until the end.
When it comes to point-and-click puzzle games, this is a nearly flawless example of how to tell an engaging story while giving players plenty to do and not holding their hand along the way. I find it hard to imagine a much better structure for the genre, and though some of the humor and characters weren't to my taste, those minor gripes are far outweighed by the positives. Whether you missed Sam & Max in the ‘90s and aughts, or you’re looking for an excuse to revisit the series, it’s hard to go wrong with The Devil’s Playhouse Remastered.
Ultimately, if you’re looking for a casual, easygoing experience with some friends, this isn’t a game I’d recommend. But if you’re up for a legitimate challenge and aren’t worried about potentially losing your mind or loved ones, I can’t give it anything less than a sterling score. Assuming you’re like me and lie somewhere in the middle, I’ve got to split the difference.
While Frog Detective: The Entire Mystery is far from perfect, I found that after spending an afternoon with it, I could hardly wipe the smile off my face. If you’re interested at all, I would highly recommend getting the whole package and not just trying to play one case at a time. Despite how Frog Detective feels in the beginning, the mysteries do build off one another and get better the deeper you go. By the time you hit the grand finale, the slow start will be a distant memory and the payoff will be well worth it!