Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Links

Steam

Twitch

MONSTER

Simon the Sorcerer Origins

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Simon the Sorcerer Origins
Item: Simon the Sorcerer Origins
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure, Action, Party, Point & Click, Single Player

AvailableOct 27, 2025

PlatformXbox Series X, PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperSmallthing Studios

Overview

Simon The Sorcerer Origins is the official prequel of the legendary Simon's adventure saga. Simon will return for the first time to the absurd world of the Sorcerers unleashing an ancient prophecy and gaining ancient magical powers. Prepare to experience a classic adventure in a modern way!

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

"Simon the Sorcerer Origins" is a nostalgic and humorous prequel that effectively explores Simon's backstory, garnering mostly positive reviews for its light-hearted tone and clever writing. Critics celebrate its blend of adventure and comedy, though some note it leans heavily on familiar tropes, making it feel less original. Overall, it's a charming homage to the classic series that pleases both new players and long-time fans, despite some narrative limitations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of "Simon the Sorcerer Origins" is largely positive, with many critics appreciating its nostalgic ties to the original series. Reviewers such as Gamereactor UK and Hobby Consolas highlight the humor and pop culture references that are integral to Simon's character, celebrating the blend of adventure and comedy that the game offers. Critics like Nintendo Life and Multiplayer.it commend the narrative for effectively introducing Simon's origins, portraying him as a cheeky character navigating a magical world filled with quirky characters and engaging challenges. The writing has been noted to be a significant improvement over previous installments, with many reviewers, including KonsoliFIN and GameGrin, emphasizing the light-hearted tone and clever meta-commentary that keeps the story engaging. However, some critiques point to limitations within the narrative. Ragequit.gr describes the story as merely pleasant and not particularly impressive, suggesting that while it has its moments of humor and satire, it may not break new ground in storytelling. Others, like Checkpoint Gaming and The Games Machine, acknowledge that the plot relies heavily on familiar tropes, which could detract from the overall originality of the experience. This sentiment is echoed by critics like Oyungezer, who note that while the prequel effectively connects to the original game, it may not fully captivate players seeking a more innovative or compelling narrative. Despite the mixed reviews, the overall consensus among critics is that "Simon the Sorcerer Origins" successfully captures the essence of the beloved franchise while providing a fresh take on Simon's backstory. Reviewers such as IGN Italia and Impulsegamer appreciate the balance of humor and self-discovery, making it accessible for newcomers while still rewarding for long-time fans with Easter eggs and cameos. The game is generally seen as a charming and entertaining prequel that retains the spirit of the original series, even if some aspects of the story may not resonate with all players.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Simon the Sorcerer Origins balances classic point-and-click charm with modern twists, earning praise for its engaging puzzles and logical challenges. Critics hail its nostalgic elements and spell integration but flag issues like obtuse puzzles, control problems on consoles, and potential soft-locking. While it may frustrate newcomers, its depth appeals to veteran players, making it a mixed yet worthwhile adventure for fans of the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Simon the Sorcerer Origins has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, particularly for its adherence to classic point-and-click mechanics. Gamereactor UK praises the "devilishly fun puzzles" that challenge players to engage deeply with the game world, while Hobby Consolas highlights the addition of magic spells that enrich the puzzle-solving experience. Critics like Gamesurf and KonsoliFIN appreciate the game's encouragement of logical thinking and exploration, evoking nostalgia for old-school adventure games. The incorporation of modern adaptations, as noted by ElDesmarque, also suggests a thoughtful approach to updating the genre, making it accessible to both veterans and newcomers alike. However, the gameplay is not without its drawbacks. Several critics, including Nintendo Life and Ragequit.gr, point out that some puzzles can be frustratingly obtuse or lack clear guidance, which may lead to player frustration, especially for those less familiar with the genre. ElDesmarque also mentions that the controls are not well-optimized for console play, adding to the discomfort during gameplay. Checkpoint Gaming raises concerns about the simplified mechanics that may lack customization, while GameGrin warns of potential soft-locking issues that could hinder progress. These criticisms suggest that while the game offers engaging content, it may not always deliver a smooth experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Simon the Sorcerer Origins successfully captures the essence of classic point-and-click adventures while introducing some modern elements. The gameplay is praised for its challenging puzzles and engaging mechanics, as noted by critics like Oyungezer and XboxEra, yet it also faces criticism for occasional obscurity and control issues. The game appears to cater primarily to veteran players who appreciate the depth and complexity of its puzzles, as highlighted by IGN Italia. While it has its shortcomings, the positive aspects of the gameplay seem to resonate more strongly, suggesting that it may still be a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Simon the Sorcerer Origins impresses with its stunning hand-drawn graphics and nostalgic charm, winning over critics with nearly 15,000 images and vibrant animations. However, some call out clunky animations and concerns over the new art style’s appeal, suggesting it might alienate pixel art fans. Overall, it successfully modernizes the beloved franchise, blending nostalgia with contemporary artistry, though not without its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions on the graphics and visual design of Simon the Sorcerer Origins reveal a generally positive reception among critics, particularly regarding the hand-drawn aesthetic and its modern interpretations. Many reviewers, such as KonsoliFIN, highlight the impressive scale of the artwork, noting nearly 15,000 hand-drawn images that contribute to a visually stunning experience reminiscent of classic adventure games. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and IGN Italia praise the game for its beautiful hand-drawn 2D graphics, which are enhanced by animated cut-scenes that add depth and vibrancy to the world. The cartoonish character design and the watercolor style, as mentioned by The Games Machine and Ragequit.gr, evoke a nostalgic charm that resonates well with players who appreciate the artistic quality reminiscent of the Disney Renaissance. However, the reviews also point out several shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. Some critics, including Nintendo Life and Multiplayer.it, note that while the hand-drawn artwork is charming, it can be clunky and occasionally stiff in animation, leading to a lack of fluidity in movement. Additionally, XboxEra expresses concern that the new art style, while more detailed than previous iterations, may not resonate with all players, particularly those who favor the pixel art style of the original games. There are also mentions of visual noise and limitations in animation due to production constraints, as highlighted by Hobby Consolas and Multiplayer.it, which detracts from the overall visual experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Simon the Sorcerer Origins successfully modernizes its visual design while paying homage to its roots. While there are criticisms regarding animation fluidity and some artistic choices that may not appeal to everyone, the majority of reviewers appreciate the effort to create a visually engaging experience that combines nostalgia with contemporary artistry. Critics like Gamereactor UK and GameSpew encapsulate this sentiment by acknowledging the enhancements in the visual presentation, despite some reservations about the character designs and animation quality. Thus, the game stands as a commendable effort in revitalizing a classic franchise, appealing to both new players and long-time fans.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Simon the Sorcerer Origins shines with nostalgic sound design and a charming soundtrack, especially with Chris Barrie's return and catchy tunes like Rick Astley's "Together Forever." However, mixed reviews highlight inconsistent voice acting and initial music gaps that detract from immersion. Overall, it successfully taps into nostalgia but needs improvement in sound quality for a fully engaging experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

77%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Simon the Sorcerer Origins have garnered a range of positive feedback from several critics, particularly highlighting the nostalgic elements that resonate with fans of the original series. For instance, Hobby Consolas praised the inclusion of iconic melodies and cartoonish sound effects that enhance the overall nostalgic experience. Similarly, Nintendo Life noted the charm added by the soundtrack, especially with the inclusion of Rick Astley’s “Together Forever,” which contributes to the game's humor. Critics like KonsoliFIN and Oyungezer emphasized the quality of the music composed by Mason Fischer, describing it as rich and playful, effectively evoking the feel of classic animations. The return of Chris Barrie as the voice of Simon was also highlighted by multiple reviewers, including XboxEra and The Games Machine, who noted that his performance adds authenticity and charm to the game. On the flip side, there are notable criticisms regarding the inconsistency in sound design quality. Gamereactor UK pointed out that while some voice performances are commendable, others feel flat and out of sync, which detracts from the immersive experience. ElDesmarque mentioned that the game initially lacks music, suggesting a missed opportunity to create a more engaging atmosphere from the outset. Additionally, while some critics praised the soundtrack, others felt that the most memorable aspects, such as the recurring theme from the first game, overshadowed new compositions, as noted by Oyungezer. This inconsistency in the quality of voice acting and music has led to a mixed reception regarding the overall sound design. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Simon the Sorcerer Origins successfully taps into nostalgia through its music and sound design, but it does so with varying degrees of success. While many reviewers, like Checkpoint Gaming and Impulsegamer, appreciated the well-executed sound design and engaging voice acting, others pointed out significant flaws that hinder the overall experience. The nostalgic elements, particularly the return of Chris Barrie and the inclusion of classic tunes, are celebrated, yet the uneven quality of voice performances and the initial lack of music indicate that there is room for improvement. Thus, while the game has a solid foundation in sound design, it struggles with inconsistency that may affect player immersion.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Simon the Sorcerer Origins shines with Chris Barrie's nostalgic and humorous return as Simon, praised for capturing the character's wit. However, critics note inconsistent voice acting quality among supporting characters, which detracts from immersion and depth. Overall, while Barrie's performance is a standout, the game’s voice acting needs more uniformity to fully enhance its charm.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Simon the Sorcerer Origins has received a generally positive reception, particularly regarding the performance of Chris Barrie, who reprises his role as Simon. Critics such as Hobby Consolas and Ragequit.gr highlight Barrie's characteristic and humorous portrayal, which adds charm and authenticity to the character. His ability to capture Simon's sarcastic nature is noted by XboxEra and IGN Italia, who commend the effective delivery of the game's witty dialogue. Additionally, the inclusion of notable voice actors has been recognized by KonsoliFIN, enhancing the overall experience and contributing to the game's humor and British charm, as mentioned by Nintendo Life. Despite the praise for Barrie's performance, there are notable criticisms regarding the overall quality of voice acting in the game. Gamereactor UK points out that the voice acting quality varies significantly among characters, leading to a lack of depth that can impact immersion. Checkpoint Gaming and GameGrin echo this sentiment, suggesting that while Barrie's portrayal is nostalgic, it may not convincingly represent an eleven-year-old character. Oyungezer also notes that while the voice acting is generally well-executed, certain characters, like Sordid, fall short in their portrayal, highlighting inconsistencies in the cast's performances. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a strong appreciation for Chris Barrie's return as Simon, which is seen as a highlight of the game's voice acting. While many reviewers, such as GameSpew and Impulsegamer, praise the overall quality and humor conveyed through the performances, there remains a recognition of varying levels of effectiveness among the supporting cast. This duality in feedback suggests that while the voice acting contributes positively to the game's charm, there is room for improvement in character depth and consistency across the board.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Simon the Sorcerer Origins delivers a mixed bag of technical performance across platforms. The Nintendo Switch offers user-friendly features but struggles with visual issues, while the PC version impresses with smooth execution but suffers from slow walking mechanics. The PS5 edition shows strong potential but raises concerns about soft-locking for new players. Overall, the game runs adequately, but its flaws may challenge some players’ enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Simon the Sorcerer Origins has received a mixed but generally positive reception across various gaming platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, both Hobby Consolas and Nintendo Life noted that the game performs well overall, with Hobby Consolas highlighting the convenience of an auto-save feature and the ability to save at any time. Nintendo Life appreciated the user-friendly interface and control scheme, which enhance the gameplay experience. On PC, KonsoliFIN and The Games Machine praised the technical execution, with the former stating that the game provides a smooth experience without significant issues, while the latter confirmed that it runs well on high settings. IGN Italia also commended the PS5 version for its technical performance, noting clever artistic techniques that maintain narrative flow. However, there are notable concerns regarding technical performance on all platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, Hobby Consolas pointed out some visual issues that detract from the experience. For PC, Oyungezer criticized the slow walking mechanics, which have been a point of contention among players and detract from immersion. Multiplayer.it acknowledged some technical limitations, suggesting that while the game functions well within its niche, it may not meet the expectations of all players. On the PS5, GameGrin raised concerns about potential soft-locking issues that could hinder gameplay, particularly for newcomers, which raises questions about the game's overall technical stability. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Simon the Sorcerer Origins performs adequately across all platforms, though with varying degrees of success. The Nintendo Switch version is lauded for its user-friendly features but suffers from visual issues. The PC version is generally well-received but faces criticism for slow mechanics and some technical limitations. The PS5 version shows promise with good performance but has potential soft-locking issues that could affect new players. While the game has its shortcomings, the positive aspects of its technical performance, particularly on PC and PS5, suggest that it can still provide an enjoyable experience for players willing to overlook its flaws.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Simon the Sorcerer Origins boasts complex puzzles and nostalgic Easter eggs that might entice fans to replay it, especially given its short playtime of 4-5 hours. However, critics note significant drawbacks, including a lack of quality-of-life improvements, linear gameplay, and frustrating challenges that may deter casual players. Overall, while it offers some replay potential for dedicated fans, its appeal is limited for newcomers, making its replay value a mixed bag.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

100%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Simon the Sorcerer Origins reveal some positive aspects that resonate with several critics. Many reviewers, such as ElDesmarque, highlight the complexity and originality of the puzzles, suggesting that players may find enjoyment in revisiting these challenges. Hobby Consolas also notes that the game can be completed in a relatively short time frame of 4-5 hours, which may encourage players to replay it for a better experience. Additionally, the presence of Easter eggs and nods to previous games, as mentioned by GameSpew and Ragequit.gr, can entice long-time fans to revisit the game, enhancing its nostalgic appeal. However, there are notable criticisms that suggest limitations in the game's replay value. Gamereactor UK points out the lack of quality-of-life improvements that could enhance the overall experience, while KonsoliFIN mentions the linear nature and some frustrating puzzles that may hinder replayability. The challenging puzzles, while a draw for some, are also seen as a deterrent for casual players, as noted by GameGrin and The Games Machine. This sentiment is echoed by IGN Italia, which suggests that the game may not have high replay value due to its specific appeal to fans of classic point-and-click adventures. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed sentiment regarding the replay value of Simon the Sorcerer Origins. While there are elements that could encourage replay, such as the engaging puzzles and nostalgic references, the challenges and linear gameplay may limit its appeal to a broader audience. Critics like Oyungezer and GameGrin highlight the potential for replay among those who enjoy a challenge, but the overall experience may not compel frequent revisits. Thus, the game seems to cater primarily to existing fans of the series, which could restrict its replayability for new players.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Simon the Sorcerer Origins is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game for its charm and ability to evoke nostalgia while incorporating modern design elements. For instance, Gamereactor UK highlights the engaging puzzles and humor, making it a recommended title for adventure game fans. Similarly, Hobby Consolas describes the game as a "charming homage" to classic graphic adventures, effectively balancing nostalgia with fresh elements. Critics like Nintendo Life and XboxEra also commend the game for successfully continuing Simon's magical adventures, showcasing the developers' capabilities in reviving a beloved series. The overall humor and visual appeal are frequently noted, with Checkpoint Gaming emphasizing the fun experience it offers both fans and newcomers. Despite the numerous praises, several critics point out notable shortcomings that may hinder the overall experience. A recurring theme is the game's challenging puzzles, which some reviewers, such as GameGrin and Ragequit.gr, suggest could frustrate players, particularly those unfamiliar with the genre. Additionally, issues with voice acting and control mechanics are mentioned by Checkpoint Gaming and ElDesmarque, respectively. Critics like GameSpew and GAMES.CH also note that while the game is enjoyable, it may not meet all expectations, particularly for newcomers who might find the lack of guidance frustrating. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Simon the Sorcerer Origins is a successful revival of the franchise, appealing primarily to fans of classic point-and-click adventures. While the game is celebrated for its humor, engaging gameplay, and nostalgic elements, it does face criticism for its challenging puzzles and certain technical issues. Overall, as Oyungezer notes, it is a solid addition to the series that captures the essence of the franchise, even if it may not be a masterpiece. The game seems to resonate well with those familiar with Simon's adventures, while newcomers may need to navigate some hurdles to fully appreciate the experience.

TL;DR

Simon the Sorcerer Origins charms with its nostalgic nods and modern twists, winning over critics for its engaging puzzles and humor. However, it stumbles with challenging puzzles and some technical flaws, potentially frustrating newcomers. Overall, it’s a strong revival for fans of the series but may not fully satisfy everyone.

MONSTER

Reviews

40 reviews found

Impulsegamer

PlayStation 5

Nov 3, 2025