Though the console brand no longer thrives like it used to, Sega has created many memorable characters and stories that have lasted through decades and hold a special place in many peoples’ hearts.
One such game was the 1991 release for the SEGA Genesis, Castle of Illusion. Sega Studios Australia does an amazing job in the 2013 HD remake of the timeless classic. They revamped the graphics to a stunning 3D design while still maintaining the classic platformer style game play to create a game that is brand new and nostalgic at the same time. The combination of new content and the alterations to the original easily make the experience enjoyable for both newcomers and veterans of Castle of Illusion.
The game lacks the same difficulty curve that the original forced players to fight through, but Sega Studios Australia keeps those problematic areas and uses them as a bonus for players who want to go out of their way for an additional challenge. This is a great tactic to reel in all types of players. Anyone who is new to the game is not overloaded with the same spike in difficulty that any original players suffered through, but at the same time those who grew up with the game can run through their favorite challenges and be rewarded for what was previously forced upon them.
All the while through the game, the narrator’s voice guides the story line for the game. While the lines may be cheesy at times, the overall effect is wonderful. The beautifully crafted surreal environments mixed with the storyteller in the background make the whole gameplay experience feel similar to a fairytale story book. Any children who grew up with it are now parents could easily enjoy playing with their child in the room and it is exactly like story time for them, everyone in the family wins.
The controls and physics can be a little bit touchy at times, but that is not to take away from the gameplay. Players must be careful about trying to stop too suddenly on a small platform or risk Mickey’s inertia sliding them off over the edge, but other than that it is a delightful experience. The controls remain simple much like the classic, Mickey runs, jumps, and throws things. Though the controls remain simple, that does not take away from the challenges the game presents. The various jumping puzzles and the promise of alternate costumes for Mickey upon discovering all secret areas leaves for hours of enjoyment.
The game could easily be completed in one sitting, but to marathon through such a beautiful game would be a waste. Players should take their time and enjoy each level. They are each a unique enchantment, leaving the players in awe as the travel through the world of impossibilities. After each level is beaten, players can go back and do a time trial to see how fast they can run through it again. No matter how much you try to escape, the stunning 3D environment and enjoyable challenges hidden throughout each world will always pull you back in for more.
Such is the power of the Castle of Illusion.
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