Loco Motive by Chucklefish and Robust Games brings the intrigue of a classic 2D whodunit adventure to the Nintendo Switch, infusing a touch of nostalgia from beloved point-and-click classics like Monkey Island and Sam and Max. While it draws inspiration from these timeless favorites, Loco Motive stands on its own with a unique charm, offering a thrilling experience. As you’re drawn in by the captivating pixel art showcased in trailers and screenshots, the stellar voice acting ensures the game world feels vibrant and alive. What started as a humble concept during a two-week game jam for AdvXJam 2020 on itch.io blossomed into this full-fledged adventure, thanks to the dedication and enthusiasm of Adam and Joseph from Robust Chicken.
The game sets off aboard a train where Lady Unterwalf, an elderly heiress, is on the cusp of announcing her heir. But, as fate would have it, she’s unexpectedly murdered in front of everyone when the Reuss Express plunges into darkness through a tunnel. The protagonist roles are divided among three intriguing characters: Arthur Ackerman, a by-the-book lawyer voiced by Sean Chiplock; Herman Merman, a crime writer turned amateur detective voiced by Brent Mukai; and Diana Ostman, an undercover spy played by Savy Des-Etages.
You’ll begin immersed in the shoes of Arthur Ackerman, who quickly finds himself under suspicion for the murder. The adventure kicks off with Arthur being grilled by two police officers. Left to his own devices as the officers step away, Arthur seizes the moment to plan an escape—if only he wasn’t chained to a desk! Here’s your chance to get familiar with the mechanics of Loco Motive as you embark on this exciting journey.
In classic point-and-click fashion, you’ll guide your character using the left analog stick, interacting with various points of interest or conversing with other characters with the A button. The L and R buttons let you swiftly cycle through hotspots for interaction, and you can also employ the right analog stick to switch between them. Want to speed things up? Use the ZL or ZR buttons to run.
The puzzle-solving begins with a challenge involving Arthur Ackerman. Without going into spoilers, let’s explore the early game puzzle: Arthur’s escape. With the clock ticking and Arthur tied to a desk, you must discreetly orchestrate his freedom. Exploring the room presents several objects: a trench coat, some keys, a desk fan, and more—each potentially offering a solution to his predicament.
You’ll need to gather and cleverly combine items like the newspaper and desk fan. Bringing up your inventory with the Y button allows you to merge items and craft a makeshift air funnel, which you can use to nudge the umbrella on a coat rack closer, eventually snagging the elusive keys. Your sleuthing skills will be put to the test, and the game promises more thrilling puzzles as you investigate deeper into the murder.
Loco Motive paints its narrative aboard a train once filled with promise but now shrouded in mystery and murder. As you unravel the secrets behind Lady Unterwalf’s demise, immerse yourself in an adventure dripping with homage to legendary genre hits, yet uniquely its own. Adding to its allure, Loco Motive offers a Noir Mode, painting your screen in black and white for that extra classic touch. Available on the Nintendo Switch for $17.99, it’s a journey worth embarking on for any adventure enthusiast.
A quick note: This review of Loco Motive was made possible thanks to a Nintendo Switch copy provided by Chucklefish.
