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The Secret of Monkey Island: Special Edition

Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC (Microsoft Windows), iOS, Mac • 2009

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Quick resume

Back by popular demand, The Secret of Monkey Island™: Special Edition faithfully re-imagines the internationally-acclaimed classic game (originally released in 1990) for original and new audiences alike.

Global score

95/100

Genres

Adventure, Point-and-click, Puzzle

Pros

  • Timeless humor and story
  • Clever and engaging puzzles
  • Option to switch between original and remastered graphics
  • Excellent voice acting
  • Immersive pirate fantasy setting

Cons

  • Some puzzles can be illogical or frustrating
  • New interface can be clunky
  • Remastered character art divisive
  • Lack of replayability beyond nostalgia
  • No multiplayer or social features

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players freely explore islands, interact with objects and NPCs, and solve puzzles at their own pace without time pressure."

  • Competence
    3

    "Puzzles require logical thinking and experimentation; players feel rewarded when solving clever challenges."

  • Competition
    -4

    "No competitive elements; focus is on individual puzzle solving and story progression."

  • Continuation
    2

    "Players often engage in long sessions to complete the story; some replay for nostalgia but limited replayability."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Single-player experience with no multiplayer or cooperative gameplay."

  • Creativity
    3

    "Players experiment with item combinations and dialogue choices to solve puzzles creatively."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No social dominance or power dynamics; interactions are humorous and balanced."

  • Escapism
    5

    "Strong escapism through immersive story, humor, and fantasy pirate world."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of personal interest and nostalgia, not obligation."

  • Experimenting
    4

    "Encourages trying different puzzle solutions and dialogue options to progress."

  • Exploration
    4

    "Players explore multiple islands and environments to uncover story and puzzles."

  • Expression
    -2

    "Limited character customization; players express themselves through dialogue choices."

  • Fantasy
    5

    "Set in a whimsical pirate fantasy world with imaginative characters and scenarios."

  • Fellowship
    -5

    "Focus on solo play; no community or social group dynamics."

  • Growth
    3

    "Players develop problem-solving skills and learn puzzle patterns through gameplay."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay typical of point-and-click adventures."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention to solve puzzles and progress; not a casual filler game."

  • Intimacy
    -4

    "Limited social interaction; no emotional or close relationships formed through gameplay."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management elements; purely single-player."

  • Progression
    3

    "Players collect items and unlock new areas as they solve puzzles and advance the story."

  • Relaxation
    3

    "Non-timed puzzles and humorous tone create a relaxed, enjoyable experience."

  • Sensation
    2

    "Visuals and audio are pleasant but not intense; focus on narrative and humor over sensory stimulation."

  • Status
    -5

    "No social recognition or ranking systems."

  • Story
    5

    "Strong narrative focus with engaging characters, humor, and plot driving the gameplay."

  • Strategy
    3

    "Requires logical thinking and planning to solve puzzles and progress."

  • Thrill
    -3

    "Minimal suspense or risk; gameplay is calm and puzzle-focused."

  • Value
    4

    "Good value for time with a memorable story and quality voice acting; low price point."

  • Violence
    -5

    "Non-violent gameplay focused on puzzle solving and humor."

  • Survival
    -5

    "No survival or threat elements; safe and stable game environment."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026