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0 Loco Motive, out now on Steam, GOG, and Nintendo Switch from Robust Games, published by Chucklefish, delivers a slapstick murder mystery with a retro point-and-click twist. Buckle up, mystery fans; this one’s a ride worth taking! Imagine this: you’re nestled in the plush Art Nouveau cabin of a 1930s luxury train, expecting a leisurely ride with perhaps a touch of class. Then, before you know it, there’s a murder, and you’re smack-dab in the middle of a whodunit that would make Poirot swap his moustache for a magnifying glass.
What’s your motive for going loco?
But before we dive in, let’s get one thing straight: I’m giddy about this game. If you’ve ever fancied yourself a detective in an Agatha Christie novel or dreamt of sleuthing on the Orient Express, this is your chance! Got a favourite feature you’re most excited about? Drop it in the comments! Let’s solve this mystery together.
Gameplay: Clues, Chaos, and Cackles
Beginning Loco Motive, you step into the polished shoes of Arthur Ackerman, a straight-laced lawyer on the Reuss Express. Lady Unterwald, your client, has been bumped off just as she was about to announce who’d inherit her fortune. Naturally, you’re the prime suspect. Brilliant. The game unfolds through Arthur’s retelling of the events to two hilariously mismatched detectives—one barely competent, the other… well, let’s say “improving.”
Loco Motive leans on classic point-and-click mechanics but with a modern flair. You’ll move Arthur with the WASD keys, search cabins, pick up and combine items, and interrogate a train full of eccentric characters. Need help? Tap the trusty Tab button to highlight interactive spots. There’s even an in-game helpline—ring up “Dirk Chiselton” for hints. It’s like having your own Watson on speed dial! The real mystery is, where does Arthur fit all that inventory? The man can even carry drinks without spilling a drop.
Oh, and the side quests! Fancy delivering Don’s heartfelt letter? Be prepared for comedic consequences. Every interaction is a potential plot twist or a belly laugh. Just be ready for some backtracking—it’s a long train, and there’s no running.
Graphics and Sound: Pixel Perfection with a Jazz Twist
Visually, Loco Motive is a love letter to the Art Nouveau era, dripping in elegance. Depending on your detective vibe, you can switch between a colourful palette and a moody noir mode. The pixel art is beautifully detailed, giving each character oodles of personality.
The voice acting is phenomenal; every character fits their voice perfectly with the musical styling of Paul Zimmermann’s jazz-infused soundtrack, which sets the scene perfectly, slinky and suspenseful, like smooth jazz in a smoke-filled bar. Every creak of the train and snippet of dialogue draws you deeper into the mystery.
Replayability & Longevity: Choices, Consequences, and Cluedo Feels
In Loco Motive. Your choices can create different dialogue. Dialogue options shape your journey, and with three playable characters—Arthur, Herman, and the undercover spy Diana—each playthrough offers new revelations. Did your bridge-or-tunnel preference with the twins affect the plot? Maybe. Missed a side quest? Time to hop back on the train!
It’s like a solo game of Cluedo with endless permutations. Whether you’re meticulously gathering clues or just enjoying the comedic chaos, there’s always something new to discover. Loco Motive will likely be 5 hours or more, depending on your puzzle-solving prowess.
Final Verdict: A Platinum Ticket to Fun
Loco Motive isn’t just a game; it’s an experience—a hilarious, heartfelt, head-scratching romp through a murder mystery with more twists than a railway track. Yes, the pacing can be slow, and bugs like Don disappearing might momentarily derail your fun. But the witty writing, stellar voice acting, and replay value make up for it in spades. So, don’t miss this one if you fancy yourself a detective, love a bit of slapstick, and appreciate a good jazz track. Robust Games and Chucklefish have struck gold—or should I say platinum?
This one’s a Thumb Culture Platinum Award, without a doubt. Now, what are you waiting for? Grab your detective hat, board the Reuss Express, and solve this mystery together. And don’t forget—comment below with what excites you most about Loco Motive!
Disclaimer: A code was received to write this review
If you like pixel-style games and point-and-click, why not check out our Thumb Culture Review on Cats and the Other Lives by Rowen
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