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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

PlatformNintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5

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!

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Nostalgia-driven adventure with cheeky charm and improved storytelling, but relies on familiar tropes, awkward jokes, and a predictable plot that fails to innovate—pleasing fans yet falling short of groundbreaking.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of reviewers praise Simon the Sorcerer: Origins for its nostalgic charm, humor, and faithful homage to the original series. Critics like Gamereactor UK, Hobby Consolas, and Nintendo Life highlight the game’s prequel narrative, which follows young Simon’s journey into a magical world while retaining the cheeky wit and pop culture references that defined the franchise. Adventure Game Hotspot commends its deeper storytelling compared to earlier entries, noting improved character development and worldbuilding that adds emotional depth. Multiplayer.it emphasizes stronger writing than previous installments, with GameGrin and IGN Italia appreciating the blend of humor and self-discovery, as well as clever nods to classic adventure game tropes like Harry Potter-inspired prophecies. The game’s accessibility for newcomers, paired with Easter eggs for long-time fans (as noted by GameSpew), further reinforces its appeal as a lighthearted, engaging experience. However, several critics point out flaws that temper the enthusiasm. Loot Level Chill criticizes the game’s “awkward fourth-wall-breaking jokes” and confusing relationship dynamics between Simon and Calypso, while Riot Pixels and Ragequit.gr note a lack of narrative depth, with minimal dialogue complexity and a plot that feels derivative of familiar fantasy tropes. GameStar and KonsoliFIN acknowledge the game’s reliance on nostalgia but question its originality, suggesting it leans too heavily on established formulas without significant innovation. Additionally, some reviewers, like Ragequit.gr, describe the story as “merely pleasant” rather than impressive, and XboxEra’s mention of a “prophecy-driven” plot underscores a sense of predictability that detracts from its impact. Overall, the critical reception is mixed but leans toward positive. While many praise its nostalgic value, humor, and improved storytelling (as highlighted by Adventure Game Hotspot and Multiplayer.it), others feel it lacks the originality or depth to stand out as a groundbreaking entry in the series. The game’s ability to balance accessibility with fan service—particularly through references and character callbacks—resonates strongly with longtime fans, but its reliance on familiar structures and occasional narrative shortcomings (as critiqued by Loot Level Chill and Ragequit.gr) prevent it from achieving universal acclaim. Ultimately, Simon the Sorcerer: Origins is seen as a worthwhile, if somewhat formulaic, return to the series’ roots that satisfies nostalgia-driven audiences while leaving room for growth in future entries.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

A nostalgic return to classic point-and-click adventure gaming, praised for its devilishly fun puzzles, magical depth, and streamlined charm, but plagued by frustrating trial-and-error mechanics, a no-hint policy, clunky controls, and underdeveloped ideas—appealing to veterans yet alienating newcomers with its steep learning curve.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

76%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Simon the Sorcerer Origins is widely praised for its adherence to classic point-and-click mechanics, which many critics highlight as a strength. Gamereactor UK describes the puzzles as "devilishly fun," emphasizing their challenge and the need for deep engagement with the game world. Hobby Consolas and Nintendo Life commend the integration of magic spells and object interactions, noting that these elements add depth to puzzle-solving while maintaining a simple control scheme. The game’s focus on exploration and logical thinking is celebrated by critics like Gamesurf and KonsoliFIN, who liken it to "old-school adventure games" with a nostalgic charm. Additionally, XboxEra and The Games Machine appreciate the streamlined approach to spellcasting and magical inventory management, which modernizes the genre while preserving its core appeal. These positives underscore the game’s success in capturing the essence of classic adventure gaming. However, several critics point to frustrations stemming from puzzle design and accessibility issues. Vandal and Adventure Game Hotspot criticize the lack of logical solutions, noting that some puzzles rely on trial-and-error or obscure mechanics, leading to frustration. Checkpoint Gaming and Loot Level Chill highlight the absence of a hint system, which can make the game feel unwelcoming to newcomers. Controls also draw mixed reactions: ElDesmarque mentions "unoptimized console controls," while GameSpew finds the walking mechanics tedious. Additionally, Riot Pixels and Multiplayer.it note that the simplified point-and-click approach, while accessible, lacks the complexity of older titles, and some puzzles feel underdeveloped—such as Oyungezer’s observation about "underutilized" hat mechanics. These critiques reveal a tension between nostalgia and modern expectations. Overall, critics agree that Simon the Sorcerer Origins successfully channels the spirit of classic adventure games but faces challenges in balancing accessibility and innovation. While its point-and-click formula, magic system, and puzzle design are lauded by outlets like Gamereactor UK and Nintendo Life, the lack of hints, inconsistent puzzle logic, and control issues (noted by Vandal and ElDesmarque) create a polarizing experience. The game appeals most to veteran players who appreciate its nostalgic charm and challenging puzzles, as highlighted by IGN Italia and Impulsegamer, but may struggle to retain newcomers due to its steep learning curve and occasional design flaws. Despite these drawbacks, the consensus leans toward admiration for its dedication to traditional mechanics, even if it occasionally falters in modernization.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Simon the Sorcerer Origins dazzles with lush, hand-drawn visuals evoking 90s cartoons and Disney magic, but clunky animation and budget limitations drag down its polish, splitting praise between nostalgic charm and technical flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of reviewers praise Simon the Sorcerer Origins for its vibrant, hand-drawn art style and nostalgic charm. Critics like Adventure Game Hotspot and Checkpoint Gaming highlight the game’s “beautiful, fluid cartoon graphics” and “Disney Renaissance-inspired” visuals, which mark a significant upgrade from the original pixel art. KonsoliFIN emphasizes the meticulous craftsmanship of nearly 15,000 hand-drawn images, creating a “visually stunning experience reminiscent of classic adventure games.” Similarly, The Games Machine commends the watercolor-style backgrounds and animated cut-scenes, while IGN Italia applauds the “hand-drawn 2D graphics” that evoke nostalgia and detail. Many reviewers, including Gamesurf and Impulsegamer, note how the art balances modernization with respect for the original pixel-art aesthetic, blending a “late 90s cartoon style” with contemporary flair. These positives collectively underscore the game’s artistic ambition and its success in capturing the whimsical essence of classic adventure games. However, several critics point to technical limitations and inconsistencies in animation quality. Nintendo Life and Vandal note that while the hand-drawn artwork is charming, some animations feel “clunky,” “stiff,” or “repetitive,” with close-up details lacking polish. Loot Level Chill criticizes the “low budget” visuals, citing “uninspired backdrops” and “slow animation,” while Multiplayer.it acknowledges production constraints that limit the animation’s fluidity. Ragequit.gr and XboxEra also mention that the art style, though carefully crafted, may not appeal to all players, with some finding it less compelling than the original pixel art. Additionally, Oyungezer observes that while environments are “well-crafted,” they remain “limited in scope.” These critiques highlight a gap between the game’s artistic aspirations and its execution, particularly in animation and technical polish. Overall, the critics’ opinions reflect a mixed but largely positive reception of Simon the Sorcerer Origins’s visuals. While many celebrate its hand-drawn charm, nostalgic appeal, and modern upgrades—particularly from Adventure Game Hotspot, KonsoliFIN, and IGN Italia—others like Loot Level Chill and XboxEra express reservations about its technical shortcomings and stylistic choices. The consensus leans toward appreciation for the art style’s creativity and homage to classic games, even as some acknowledge its imperfections. For fans of 2D adventure games, the visuals are a standout feature, though they may not fully satisfy those craving the precision or nostalgia of earlier titles. The game’s artistic identity remains a point of contention but ultimately reinforces its unique place in the genre.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Nostalgic sound design and music praised for immersive, authentic charm, with Rick Astley’s anthem and Chris Barrie’s voice acting shining bright—though uneven pacing, mixed vocals, and underwhelming originality linger as flaws in an otherwise triumphant homage.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound 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 music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Simon the Sorcerer Origins received largely positive feedback, with many critics praising its nostalgic and immersive qualities. Hobby Consolas highlighted the "iconic melodies from the original series" and "cartoonish sound effects," creating a "nostalgic audio experience that complements the visuals." Nintendo Life and Adventure Game Hotspot both emphasized the soundtrack’s charm, noting Rick Astley’s inclusion as a standout element that enhances humor and atmosphere. The orchestral and cinematic score, described by Adventure Game Hotspot as "shifting between moods to match gameplay," was praised for its ability to evoke classic adventure game vibes. Additionally, KonsoliFIN and Oyungezer commended Mason Fischer’s playful, animation-inspired compositions, while the return of Chris Barrie’s voice acting (noted by The Games Machine, XboxEra, and IGN Italia) added authenticity and emotional depth. These elements collectively created a cohesive and engaging auditory experience that resonated with fans of the original series. However, some critics pointed out inconsistencies and areas where the sound design fell short. Gamereactor UK noted "mixed quality" in voice performances, with some lines feeling "flat and out of sync," which detracted from immersion. ElDesmarque mentioned the game initially "lacks music" before a well-known theme emerges, suggesting uneven pacing in audio implementation. Riot Pixels criticized the music for not standing out significantly despite Rick Astley’s inclusion, calling it a "unique touch" that might feel forced. While Vandal praised the "excellent voice acting," others like GameSpew and IGN Italia focused more on vocal performances than sound design specifics, leaving some aspects of the audio underexplored. These critiques highlight minor but notable flaws in execution, particularly in consistency and originality. Overall, the consensus among critics leans toward appreciation for Simon the Sorcerer Origins’s nostalgic sound design and music, with its strengths outweighing its shortcomings. The inclusion of iconic elements like Rick Astley’s "Together Forever" and Chris Barrie’s voice acting was widely celebrated as a key highlight, while the orchestral and thematic compositions added depth to the game’s fantasy atmosphere. Though some reviews pointed to uneven quality in certain audio aspects—such as vocal delivery or initial musical absence—the majority viewed the sound design as a successful homage to its predecessors. Critics like Hobby Consolas, Adventure Game Hotspot, and KonsoliFIN emphasized how the audio elements effectively enhanced the game’s charm and immersion, suggesting that while not flawless, the soundtrack and sound design largely succeeded in capturing the spirit of the original series.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Chris Barrie’s return as Simon is a tour de force, injecting humor, nostalgia, and authentic British charm that anchors the game’s success—yet uneven supporting voices, lackluster villains, and age-dissonant quirks dilute immersion, creating a mixed but largely favorable reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Simon the Sorcerer Origins receives largely positive acclaim, particularly for Chris Barrie’s return as Simon, which is consistently highlighted as a standout element. Critics like Nintendo Life and Vandal praise his "characteristic and humorous" performance, noting that it adds to the game’s British charm and entertainment value. Adventure Game Hotspot and Checkpoint Gaming emphasize the nostalgia factor, with Barrie’s portrayal feeling authentic and well-suited to the character’s sarcastic tone. Additionally, GameSpew and Impulsegamer commend the supporting cast for delivering strong performances, reinforcing the game’s comedic and narrative depth. The consistency of Barrie’s voice work across multiple platforms (Switch, PC, PS5) is seen as a key strength, with XboxEra and IGN Italia noting his ability to capture Simon’s quippy, sardonic personality effectively. However, some critics point to unevenness in the voice acting, particularly with secondary characters. Gamereactor UK notes that while Barrie shines, other characters lack depth, which detracts from immersion. Adventure Game Hotspot and Oyungezer criticize the villains for not having "over-the-top performances" or convincing portrayals, respectively. Checkpoint Gaming and Riot Pixels raise concerns about the believability of Barrie’s portrayal of an 11-year-old, with the latter noting that the actors’ age is "noticeable." Additionally, Loot Level Chill suggests the overall charm feels diminished compared to the original series, while Oyungezer and KonsoliFIN mention specific characters like Sordid being less convincing. These critiques highlight a gap between the lead’s strong performance and the supporting cast’s execution. Overall, the consensus leans positive, with critics agreeing that Chris Barrie’s voice work is a cornerstone of the game’s success. While some reviewers, such as GameGrin and IGN Italia, acknowledge minor flaws in character portrayal or age authenticity, they still view the voice acting as effective and immersive. The mixed feedback on supporting characters suggests room for improvement, but the majority of critics—including Gamesurf, XboxEra, and GameSpew—see the voice acting as a significant asset to the game’s humor and nostalgic appeal. This balance of praise and constructive criticism reflects a generally favorable reception, with Barrie’s performance serving as both a highlight and a benchmark for the game’s audio design.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Simon the Sorcerer Origins delivers solid technical performance across platforms—smooth PC and PS5 play with tweaks, but Switch suffers from visual hiccups; PC’s slow movement and PS5’s soft-locking issues mar an otherwise polished experience, leaving room for refinement.

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 varies across platforms, with several positives highlighted by reviewers. On the Nintendo Switch, Hobby Consolas praised the game’s smooth gameplay, noting its ability to save at any time and auto-save features, while Nintendo Life commended the user-friendly interface and control scheme. For PC, KonsoliFIN and The Games Machine both emphasized the game’s technical execution, with the latter highlighting seamless performance even on high-end configurations. On the PS5, GameGrin acknowledged potential soft-locking issues but noted that the game “performs well technically,” while IGN Italia praised its clever artistic techniques for managing animation complexity without disrupting narrative flow. These reviews suggest a generally positive foundation across platforms, with particular strengths in interface design and performance optimization. However, platform-specific drawbacks emerged in several critiques. On the Switch, Hobby Consolas pointed out visual issues, which could detract from immersion, while Nintendo Life suggested a hint system would have improved accessibility. For PC, Oyungezer criticized the slow walking mechanics as a “point of contention,” and Multiplayer.it noted the game’s small-scale production led to technical limitations despite its functionality. On the PS5, GameGrin raised concerns about soft-locking, which could frustrate newcomers, though IGN Italia’s praise for artistic techniques balanced this. These negatives highlight areas where the game’s technical execution fell short of expectations, particularly in handling gameplay mechanics and scalability across platforms. Overall, critics largely agree that Simon the Sorcerer Origins is technically competent, with strong performance on PC and PS5 and a functional experience on Switch despite minor flaws. While KonsoliFIN and The Games Machine lauded PC’s smoothness, Oyungezer’s critique of slow mechanics and GameGrin’s warning about soft-locking on PS5 reveal platform-specific challenges. The consensus leans toward the game being well-optimized for its intended scope, with room for improvement in addressing accessibility and technical polish—particularly on PC and PS5. Despite these issues, the reviews collectively suggest that the game delivers a stable and enjoyable experience, albeit with some trade-offs depending on the platform.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Nostalgic charm meets frustrating challenges in Simon the Sorcerer Origins—a divisive love letter to retro adventure fans. Praise for puzzle depth and fan-service nods contrasts sharply with criticism over rigid design, lack of hints, and niche appeal, leaving replayability hinging on whether you crave vintage trials or modern polish.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

86%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

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

The reviewers generally acknowledge that Simon the Sorcerer Origins offers a nostalgic experience with elements that could enhance its replay value. Gamereactor UK highlights the game’s charm and fun, noting that while it lacks modern quality-of-life improvements, its retro appeal might entice fans to revisit it. Hobby Consolas emphasizes that the puzzle challenges could encourage players to replay for a better experience, while ElDesmarque praises the complexity and originality of the puzzles as a key factor in their replayability. Oyungezer also points out that the game’s emphasis on solving puzzles without external help can be rewarding for those who enjoy a challenge, and GameSpew mentions Easter eggs and nods to previous games as incentives for long-time fans to return. These positives suggest that the game’s design and thematic elements cater to enthusiasts of classic point-and-click adventures, potentially justifying multiple playthroughs for dedicated players. However, several critics express concerns about the game’s limitations in terms of replay value. Vandal criticizes the lack of logical puzzle solutions, which may frustrate players and deter them from revisiting the game. Loot Level Chill argues that the title lacks replayability, particularly for those who prefer the original Simon the Sorcerer series, while Riot Pixels describes it as a one-time nostalgic experience rather than a game designed for repeated play. The Games Machine and GameGrin both highlight the challenging puzzles and lack of hints as barriers to casual players, with IGN Italia noting that its specific appeal to fans of classic point-and-click adventures may limit broader replay interest. These critiques underscore issues with accessibility, design consistency, and the balance between challenge and enjoyment, which could diminish the game’s long-term appeal for some audiences. Overall, the critics present a mixed consensus on Simon the Sorcerer Origins’s replay value. While several praise its nostalgic elements, puzzle complexity, and fan-service details as potential draws for repeat play, others point to significant drawbacks such as frustrating mechanics, linear progression, and a lack of modern conveniences. The game seems to cater most strongly to existing fans of the series or those who appreciate retro-style challenges, but its ability to entice broader audiences or encourage frequent replays remains uncertain. As KonsoliFIN notes, the experience is enjoyable enough for multiple playthroughs, yet the combination of obstacles and niche appeal suggests that replay value will likely remain a polarizing aspect of the game.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall reception of Simon the Sorcerer Origins is largely positive, with critics highlighting its nostalgic charm, humor, and engaging puzzles. Many praise it as a heartfelt tribute to classic adventure games, emphasizing its ability to blend retro aesthetics with modern design. Gamereactor UK notes that it’s “recommended for fans of adventure games,” while Hobby Consolas calls it a “charming homage” balancing nostalgia with new elements. Nintendo Life applauds its “solid return for a beloved series,” and Vandal describes it as a “charming return of the beloved character.” Adventure Game Hotspot appreciates its “beautiful and intriguing reboot,” and KonsoliFIN emphasizes its “heartfelt tribute to classic adventure games.” The game’s humor, visual appeal, and dedication to the franchise’s roots are frequently cited as standout strengths, with many critics acknowledging its success in capturing the spirit of the original series. However, several reviewers point out notable flaws, particularly around difficulty, puzzle design, and accessibility. Vandal mentions “gameplay frustrations and puzzle logic issues,” while Adventure Game Hotspot criticizes the struggle to balance “new dramatic direction” with the series’ humor. Checkpoint Gaming highlights “challenging puzzles and some voice acting inconsistencies,” and Loot Level Chill finds it “inoffensive but ultimately unremarkable” for newcomers. Ragequit.gr notes that its “puzzle implementation may not appeal to newcomers,” while Riot Pixels argues it lacks “depth and complexity.” Additionally, XboxEra mentions minor complaints about the art style and pacing, and The Games Machine acknowledges that some puzzles could frustrate players. These criticisms suggest that while the game excels in nostalgia and charm, its design choices may alienate less experienced or impatient players. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus leans positive, with most critics recommending it to fans of classic point-and-click adventures. Gamereactor UK, Hobby Consolas, and Nintendo Life all frame it as a successful revival, while Multiplayer.it praises its “well-crafted” execution for enthusiasts. Even reviewers like GameStar, who call it “not perfect,” acknowledge it as the “best thing to happen to the series in the last 30 years.” While some, like Loot Level Chill and Ragequit.gr, suggest it’s primarily for nostalgic fans rather than newcomers, the majority agree that Simon the Sorcerer Origins effectively honors its legacy while offering a fun, if imperfect, experience. The mixed feedback reflects a game that prioritizes charm and nostalgia over innovation, resonating strongly with longtime followers but requiring patience from others.

TL;DR

Simon the Sorcerer Origins is a nostalgic, humor-laden revival of classic adventures, lauded for its charming puzzles and retro charm, yet plagued by frustrating difficulty, inconsistent puzzle logic, and accessibility issues that may alienate newcomers.

MONSTER

Reviews

53 reviews found

Impulsegamer

PlayStation 5

Nov 3, 2025