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Grim Fandango Remastered

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Grim Fandango Remastered
Item: Grim Fandango Remastered
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2015

GenresAdventure, Puzzle and Logic, Top-Down Perspective, Point & Click, Single Player

AvailableJan 26, 2015

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperDouble Fine Productions

Overview

Something's rotten in the land of the dead, and you're being played for a sucker. Meet Manny Calavera, travel agent at the Department of Death. He sells luxury packages to souls on their four-year journey to eternal rest. But there's trouble in paradise. Help Manny untangle himself from a conspiracy that threatens his very salvation. One of the most acclaimed adventure games of all time is now back, better than ever. Grim Fandango's epic story of four years in the life (or death) of Manny Calavera, travel agent to the dead, has been remastered to look, sound, and control even better than when it won GameSpot's Game of the Year award upon its original launch. Grim Fandango still stands as a classic of the genre, with unforgettable characters and unique combination of film noir and Mexican folklore.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Critics rave about Grim Fandango Remastered’s captivating story and rich character development, praising its blend of humor, charm, and film noir influences. Set in a unique world inspired by Aztec mythology, the narrative tackles themes of love and redemption, earning accolades for its clever writing and emotional depth. Despite minor pacing issues and some plot inconsistencies, the overwhelming consensus is that it's a timeless classic and a must-play for fans of narrative-driven games.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

99%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Grim Fandango Remastered has been widely praised by critics, who highlight its captivating narrative and rich character development. Many reviewers, including PCGamesN and Adventure Gamers, commend the tale of Manny Calavera, a travel agent in the Land of the Dead, for its blend of humor, charm, and film noir influences. The narrative is described as engaging and filled with memorable characters, with critics like GameSpot and IGN noting its warmth and wit. The game’s setting, inspired by Aztec mythology and the Day of the Dead, adds a unique flavor that enhances the storytelling experience. Critics such as God is a Geek and The Digital Fix appreciate the depth and originality of the plot, which encompasses themes of love, redemption, and corruption, making it a standout in the adventure game genre. While the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, some critics have pointed out minor drawbacks in the narrative. For instance, PC Games noted that the story loses some momentum in the second half, suggesting that pacing issues may detract from the overall experience. Additionally, Eurogamer mentioned that certain plot details might not hold up under scrutiny, indicating that while the story is rich, it may have elements that require a suspension of disbelief. However, these criticisms appear to be relatively minor in comparison to the accolades the game has received, with most reviewers focusing on the engaging nature of the narrative and its clever writing. The consensus among critics is that Grim Fandango Remastered features a masterfully crafted story that resonates with players, showcasing Tim Schafer's storytelling prowess. The majority of reviews reflect a deep appreciation for the game's narrative, with phrases like "one of the best scripts in gaming" (Metro GameCentral) and "arguably the best videogame story ever" (GameWatcher) underscoring its impact. Overall, the critics agree that Grim Fandango Remastered is a timeless classic, successfully blending humor, intrigue, and rich cultural references, making it a must-play for fans of narrative-driven games.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Grim Fandango Remastered is celebrated for its classic adventure mechanics and engaging puzzles, enhanced by a user-friendly point-and-click interface. Critics praise its nostalgic charm and creative problem-solving, but many express frustration with the game's challenging and sometimes illogical puzzles, fixed camera angles, and lack of hint systems, making it tough for newcomers. While seasoned players may enjoy its depth, the steep difficulty may deter others, leading to a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Grim Fandango Remastered has garnered praise for its classic adventure mechanics and engaging puzzle design. Critics like GameSpot and Gaming Nexus highlight the innovative control scheme and the logical coherence of many puzzles within the game's unique world. The remaster has introduced a point-and-click interface that enhances user-friendliness, making it more accessible for newcomers while retaining the essence of the original title. Reviewers such as IGN and JeuxActu appreciate the creative puzzle-solving aspects, which encourage exploration and interaction with the game's rich narrative and characters. The nostalgic feel of the game, combined with modernized controls, has been noted by critics like Vandal, who emphasize that the gameplay remains timeless. However, the gameplay also faces significant criticism, particularly regarding the difficulty and logic of its puzzles. Many reviewers, including The Digital Fix and COGconnected, express frustration over the obtuse and illogical nature of some challenges, often necessitating the use of walkthroughs. Critics like Washington Post and Arcade Sushi point out that the fixed camera angles and slow movement can lead to tedious navigation, further complicating the puzzle-solving experience. The lack of a hint system is a recurring complaint, with reviewers like Game Informer and Gamer.no noting that this absence can result in prolonged periods of aimless wandering and confusion, particularly for newcomers to the genre. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Grim Fandango Remastered offers a blend of nostalgic charm and challenging gameplay that may not appeal to everyone. While seasoned players may relish the intricate puzzles and the opportunity for critical thinking, many newcomers find the experience overwhelming due to the game's high difficulty and occasional lack of clarity. The remaster has made strides in modernizing controls and improving accessibility, yet the reliance on trial and error and the presence of obscure puzzle solutions remain points of contention. Critics like Game Revolution and PlayStation Universe encapsulate this sentiment, recognizing the game's appeal while cautioning potential players about its demanding nature.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Grim Fandango Remastered impresses with its unique Art Deco and Mesoamerican art style, and upgraded character models and lighting are praised. However, critics slam the unchanged pre-rendered backgrounds, which feel dated and disrupt visual cohesion. Overall, the remaster is seen as an upscale rather than a true modernization, leaving many fans disappointed in its lack of significant visual improvements.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

28%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

69%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The opinions regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Grim Fandango Remastered highlight several positive aspects that critics consistently appreciate. Many reviewers, such as Adventure Gamers and Atomix, praised the game's unique art direction, which effectively combines Art Deco architecture with Mesoamerican motifs, creating a visually striking atmosphere. The remaster has improved character models and lighting effects, with critics like Push Square and COGconnected noting that these enhancements contribute to a more visually appealing experience. Furthermore, the remaster retains the original's artistic charm, which is celebrated by critics like Gamer.nl and JeuxActu, who emphasize that the game successfully respects its original vision while adapting to modern screens. However, the remastered version has faced significant criticism regarding its visual fidelity, particularly concerning the unchanged pre-rendered backgrounds. Critics such as Eurogamer Italy and Metro GameCentral pointed out that the graphical upgrades are minimal, with many stating that the backgrounds appear dated and stretched, leading to a disjointed visual experience. Reviewers like Game Informer and Everyeye.it echoed this sentiment, highlighting that while character models have been improved, the backgrounds remain largely untouched, resulting in a lack of cohesion between the updated elements and the original assets. The overall impression is that the remaster does not meet modern expectations for visual enhancements, as noted by GRYOnline.pl and Critical Hit, who lament the conservative nature of the upgrades. The overall consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception for the visual design of Grim Fandango Remastered. While there is appreciation for the unique artistic style and some improvements in character models and lighting, the lack of significant upgrades to the backgrounds and the overall visual fidelity has led to disappointment among many reviewers. Critics like PC Games and Digital Spy have pointed out that the remaster feels more like an upscale than a true modernization, failing to deliver the comprehensive visual enhancements expected from a remaster in today's gaming landscape. As a result, while the remaster retains its charm and artistic integrity, it ultimately leaves many players longing for a more substantial visual overhaul.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Grim Fandango Remastered has been lauded for its outstanding sound design and music, with critics praising the vibrant jazz and Spanish guitar, as well as the top-notch voice acting. The re-recorded soundtrack by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra elevates the audio experience, though some minor issues like sound mixing and the perceived impact of enhancements have been noted. Overall, the remaster is celebrated for revitalizing a classic while retaining its charm.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of Grim Fandango Remastered is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising the enhancements made in the remaster. Reviewers such as Gamestyle and USgamer highlighted the brilliance of the voice acting and the captivating mix of jazz and Spanish guitar, which sets the tone for the game effectively. The remastered soundtrack, featuring re-recorded music performed by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, received accolades from multiple critics, including GameTrailers and GamingTrend, who noted that it brings the jazzy themes to life and significantly enhances the overall audio experience. Critics like Adventure Gamers and Game Informer emphasized the exceptional quality of the music, describing it as a highlight of the game that complements the atmosphere beautifully. Despite the praise, some critics pointed out areas for improvement. For instance, Gamestyle noted that while the voice acting is near pitch-perfect, the sound mix could be better, with some dialogue becoming difficult to comprehend due to overlapping voices. Additionally, Game Over Online mentioned that while the music has been re-recorded, they couldn't discern a significant difference between the new and old tracks, suggesting that the enhancements may not be universally perceived as transformative. Furthermore, while many critics acknowledged the high quality of the sound design, some, like Shacknews, provided limited details on specific aspects, leaving a gap in the overall analysis of sound design. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Grim Fandango Remastered boasts a superb sound design and music score that significantly enhances the gaming experience. The majority of reviewers, including those from IGN and PCGamesN, celebrated the jazzy soundtrack and the quality of the voice acting, reinforcing the game's immersive atmosphere. While there are minor critiques regarding the sound mix and the discernibility of the re-recorded music, these do not overshadow the overall acclaim for the remaster's audio elements. The remastered version is widely regarded as a successful enhancement, breathing new life into a classic title while maintaining its original charm.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Grim Fandango Remastered is widely acclaimed for its authenticity and charm, especially Tony Plana's role as Manny Calavera. Critics praise the performances for enhancing cultural authenticity and aligning with the game's tone, making interactions memorable. Minor criticisms exist regarding subtitle translations and specific character portrayals, but they pale in comparison to the overall appreciation. This remaster successfully retains and elevates the original's standout voice performances, solidifying them as essential to the game's identity.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Grim Fandango Remastered has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers praised the performances for their authenticity and depth, highlighting the contributions of the original cast, particularly Tony Plana's portrayal of Manny Calavera, which was noted for adding significant charm to the game. Critics from outlets like Arcade Sushi and Attack of the Fanboy emphasized how the voice acting elevates the overall experience, with the latter specifically mentioning the inclusion of Latino actors as a means to enhance the game's cultural authenticity. The humor and wit embedded in the dialogue were also frequently noted, with Gameblog.fr and IGN Italia pointing out how the voice performances align perfectly with the game's tone, providing engaging and memorable interactions that contribute to the narrative's richness. Despite the general acclaim, there were some criticisms regarding the voice acting. A few reviewers mentioned issues with translation in the subtitles, as noted by Hobby Consolas, which could detract from the overall experience for non-native speakers. Additionally, while the voice acting was praised for its quality, some critics like TheSixthAxis expressed mixed feelings about specific character portrayals, such as finding the character Glottis annoying, which could affect individual enjoyment of the performances. However, these negatives were relatively minor compared to the widespread appreciation for the voice acting. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Grim Fandango Remastered is a standout feature that significantly enhances the game's charm and storytelling. With the majority of reviews highlighting the performances as top-notch, it is clear that the remaster successfully preserves the quality of the original while also benefiting from modern enhancements. Critics from various platforms, including Eurogamer and Adventure Gamers, have reinforced the idea that the voice acting is not only well-executed but also integral to the game's identity, making it a beloved aspect of this classic title.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Grim Fandango Remastered delivers a nostalgic experience with some technical upgrades, but it suffers from significant performance issues across all platforms. While PS4 and PC versions show stability and visual improvements, critics highlight major problems like frame rate drops, loading delays, and bugs. The Nintendo Switch version has its own share of control and transition issues. Overall, the game's technical flaws overshadow its strengths, resulting in a mixed reception from reviewers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

11%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

30%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Grim Fandango Remastered has received a mixed reception across various platforms, with notable strengths highlighted by several critics. On the PlayStation 4, some reviewers, such as Vandal, noted that the remastered version runs smoothly without significant technical issues, and Atomix echoed this sentiment by stating that the game performs well overall. Nintendo Switch users have reported a generally smoother experience compared to other portable versions, as mentioned by Nintendo Life. On PC, Gamer.nl praised the remaster for being stable and playable on modern systems, indicating that many previous technical issues have been addressed, while PC Gamer highlighted the faithful retexturing of 3D models and revamped lighting. However, the negatives are prominent across all platforms, particularly on PS4, where critics like Everyeye.it and Gamestyle pointed out issues such as frame rate drops, slow loading times, and various bugs that can lead to frustrating gameplay experiences. On the Nintendo Switch, FNintendo mentioned disruptions caused by screen transitions and control responsiveness issues. The PC version also faced criticism, with multiple reviewers, including GameTrailers and Shacknews, noting instability, crashes during transitions, and a lack of an auto-save feature, which can lead to significant frustration for players. Overall, the consensus among critics across all platforms is that while Grim Fandango Remastered offers a nostalgic experience with some technical improvements, it is marred by various bugs and performance issues that detract from the overall enjoyment. Many PS4 reviewers, such as Game Informer and USgamer, expressed disappointment with the technical execution, while on PC, the lack of an auto-save feature and persistent bugs were recurring themes in reviews from Eurogamer and GamingTrend. Despite some positive remarks regarding the remaster's visual enhancements and gameplay stability, the technical shortcomings appear to overshadow these strengths, leading to a mixed reception.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Grim Fandango Remastered has strong replay value thanks to its engaging story, added features like developer commentary, and nostalgic appeal, making it a hit with fans. However, dated graphics and technical issues may deter newcomers and casual players. While veterans will appreciate multiple playthroughs, those unfamiliar with the game might find its puzzles frustrating. Recommended for fans ready to tackle its quirks, but not a perfect fit for everyone.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

31%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Grim Fandango Remastered is predominantly positive, with many critics highlighting features that enhance the experience for both newcomers and veterans. For instance, Arcade Sushi noted their enjoyment of replaying the game twice, once for graphics comparison and once with developer commentary, which adds depth to the experience. Similarly, Game Informer and Gamer.nl emphasized the appeal of the director's commentary and additional features, suggesting that these elements encourage multiple playthroughs. Critics like Attack of the Fanboy and SpazioGames also praised the engaging story and challenging puzzles, which contribute to the game's replay value, making it worthwhile for players to revisit. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the replay value that potential players should consider. Several reviewers, including Gameblog.fr and InsideGamer.nl, pointed out that the game's dated graphics and technical issues may deter some players from replaying it. Critics like Eurogamer Italy and The Digital Fix echoed these sentiments, suggesting that while the game is a classic, its appeal may be limited for newcomers who are not familiar with its mechanics or who may find the puzzles frustrating. Additionally, Gamestyle mentioned that the lack of new features over the original could make replaying less appealing for those who have already experienced the game. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Grim Fandango Remastered offers a solid level of replay value, particularly for fans of the original game, thanks to its engaging narrative and added features like developer commentary. However, the game's technical shortcomings and the challenge of its puzzles may limit its appeal for new players and casual gamers. Critics such as NZGamer and Shacknews highlight the importance of nostalgia and the rich storytelling, while others caution that the experience may not resonate with everyone, particularly those unfamiliar with the adventure genre. Overall, the remaster is recommended for those willing to embrace its quirks and challenges.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

Grim Fandango Remastered has garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for its engaging storytelling, unique charm, and nostalgic value. Many reviewers, such as Eurogamer Germany and GameTrailers, highlight the game's captivating narrative and imaginative world, suggesting that it retains much of what made the original a beloved classic. Critics like Arcade Sushi and IGN emphasize the game's top-notch storytelling and memorable characters, making it a worthwhile experience for both newcomers and veterans of the genre. The remaster's ability to bring a cult classic to modern platforms is also noted positively by critics like InsideGamer.nl and GamingTrend, who appreciate the effort to make the game more accessible while retaining its core essence. However, the remaster is not without its shortcomings, with numerous critics pointing out significant technical issues and minimal graphical improvements. The Digital Fix and Ragequit.gr express disappointment, suggesting that the remaster feels more like a cash grab than a genuine enhancement of the original. Many reviews, including those from GRYOnline.pl and PlayStation Universe, echo concerns about outdated gameplay mechanics and frustrating puzzles that detract from the overall experience. Critics like The Washington Post and Hobby Consolas also note that while the story shines, the gameplay can feel laborious and hinder enjoyment due to technical flaws and lack of modern updates. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Grim Fandango Remastered is a mixed bag. While it successfully captures the charm and narrative depth of the original game, it falls short in delivering a polished remaster that meets contemporary gaming standards. Critics like Gameplanet and PC Gamer suggest that while the remaster is a nostalgic journey worth experiencing, it ultimately feels undercooked and lacking in significant improvements. Many reviewers recommend it for fans of the original and those interested in adventure games, but caution new players about the dated mechanics and technical issues that may impact their enjoyment. The remaster is seen as a valuable addition to gaming history, yet it leaves room for improvement in execution.

TL;DR

Grim Fandango Remastered is a nostalgic nod to a classic, praised for its captivating story and charm, but marred by technical issues and outdated gameplay. Critics see it as a mixed bag: a worthwhile experience for fans, yet lacking in significant enhancements and polish for newcomers. Ultimately, it’s a nostalgic journey that falls short of modern gaming standards.

MONSTER

Reviews

120 reviews found

100

Adventure Gamers

Feb 13, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Grim Fandango Remastered is hailed as a masterpiece that has been improved for a new generation while preserving the charm of the original. It is recommended for both newcomers and veterans of the game.

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100

Twinfinite

Feb 2, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Grim Fandango Remastered is a must-play experience for both returning fans and newcomers to the adventure genre.

Atomix

PlayStation 4

Jan 29, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Grim Fandango Remastered is hailed as one of the greatest games ever made, a must-play for fans of the medium, despite some accessibility concerns for new players.

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IGN

PlayStation 4

Jan 27, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Grim Fandango Remastered is a reverent re-release of a classic adventure game, with a timeless story and minimal modernization needed.

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IGN Spain

PlayStation 4

Feb 10, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Grim Fandango Remastered is an excellent opportunity to revisit a classic, despite minor shortcomings, making it a must-play for adventure game fans.

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ActionTrip

Feb 11, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Subtly remade classic, funny and adoringly weird, a joy to explore

Merlin'in Kazanı (Turkey)

PlayStation 4

Jan 29, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Grim Fandango Remastered is celebrated as one of the greatest games, successfully returning to captivate audiences after over 15 years.

Nintendojo

Nintendo Switch

Jan 9, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Grim Fandango Remastered is as relevant and fun as ever; lack of progress in diversifying the types of experiences in the industry

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IGN Italia

PlayStation 4

Jan 27, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Grim Fandango is celebrated as a masterpiece of the adventure genre, combining a compelling story, sharp dialogue, and engaging gameplay mechanics.

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CGMagazine

PlayStation 4

Feb 21, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Grim Fandango Remastered is a necessary title for fans of the genre and a must-own for anyone with an interest in adventure games.

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