Search for games

Type three or more characters to search...

Links

Amazon

Twitch

MONSTER

Thimbleweed Park

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Thimbleweed Park
Item: Thimbleweed Park
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2017

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Indie, Comedy, Side View Perspective, Puzzle and Logic, Point & Click, Single Player

AvailableMar 30, 2017

PlatformNintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperRon Gilbert and Gary Winnick

Overview

Thimbleweed Park is the curious story of two washed up detectives investigating a dead body found in the river just outside of town. It's a game where you switch between five playable characters while uncovering the dark, satirical and bizarre world of Thimbleweed Park.

Elsewhere

8.1

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

94%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics found the story of Thimbleweed Park to be very engaging and well-crafted. Positive aspects highlighted by reviewers include the intriguing murder mystery plot, quirky characters, and the nostalgic feel of the game. Critics like Vandal and GameWatcher praised the engaging murder mystery storyline with logical puzzle solutions, while Nintendo Life appreciated the palpable weirdness and unexpected twists reminiscent of Twin Peaks and The X-Files. The script was also commended for being strong and memorable, with characters that stand out in their own unique ways, as noted by TheSixthAxis. On the other hand, some critics had reservations about certain aspects of the story in Thimbleweed Park. New Game Network and Slant Magazine criticized the tonal disjointedness, contrived nature, and lack of depth in the story, with characters feeling random and scenarios forced. Additionally, Gamer.nl mentioned that the story took bizarre turns towards the end, suffering from plot holes and unresolved storylines. Digitally Downloaded also pointed out that the ending was described as self-indulgent and unsatisfying, which may have impacted the overall narrative experience for some players. Overall, despite some mixed opinions on specific elements, the consensus among the majority of critics is that the story of Thimbleweed Park is a strong point of the game. The engaging murder mystery, quirky characters, humor, and nostalgic references resonated well with reviewers, leading to an overall positive reception. Critics appreciated the intricate narrative, clever puzzles, and the way the story unfolded, making it an enjoyable experience for fans of classic point-and-click adventures and mystery games. Thimbleweed Park successfully captures the spirit of classic Lucasfilm games, as noted by Gaming Nexus, and offers a compelling and engaging storyline that keeps players entertained, as acknowledged by GameGrin.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics mostly loved Thimbleweed Park's engaging murder mystery plot, quirky characters, and nostalgic vibes, praising its clever puzzles and strong script. Some noted tonal issues and a divisive ending, but overall, the game captures the essence of classic point-and-click adventures and mystery games, earning positive reviews for its intriguing narrative and memorable characters.

Gameplay Mechanics

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

71%

Mixed (50-79)

29%

Negative (0-49)

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

The critics generally praise the gameplay of Thimbleweed Park for its classic point-and-click adventure style, challenging puzzles, and engaging narrative. Critics like Generación Xbox and God is a Geek highlight the intuitive mechanics for exploration, puzzle-solving, and item usage, while The Games Machine appreciates the varied gameplay experiences offered by controlling five unique characters with distinct agendas. The inclusion of multiple playable characters, as noted by PlayStation Universe and GameSpot, adds depth to the puzzle-solving aspect of the game. Additionally, the game's attention to detail, intricate puzzles, and engaging dialogue, as mentioned by SomosXbox and 3DJuegos, provide a standout and rewarding experience for players. On the flip side, some critics express concerns about the gameplay of Thimbleweed Park. New Game Network and PCWorld mention that some puzzles may be frustrating or overly tedious, potentially leading to moments of frustration for players. IGN Italia and DualShockers point out that the puzzles in the game can sometimes rely on questionable logic or be obscure, which may hinder the overall experience for some players. Furthermore, PlayStation Country highlights the issue of repeated dialogue detracting from the uniqueness of the characters, potentially impacting the immersion and enjoyment of the narrative for players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Thimbleweed Park offers a compelling and challenging gameplay experience that successfully blends nostalgia with modern mechanics. The game's traditional point-and-click interface, clever puzzles, and diverse characters are appreciated by many reviewers, such as Game Informer and GameWatcher. While there are concerns about puzzle logic and potential frustration with certain challenges, the majority of critics find the gameplay to be engaging, rewarding, and a standout in the adventure game genre. Thimbleweed Park's ability to cater to both seasoned players and newcomers to the genre, as noted by CGMagazine and Game Over Online, solidifies its position as a well-crafted and enjoyable gaming experience for fans of classic point-and-click adventures.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics praise Thimbleweed Park for its classic point-and-click gameplay, challenging puzzles, and engaging narrative. The game's intuitive mechanics, varied gameplay with multiple characters, attention to detail, and engaging dialogue make it a standout experience. However, some critics find certain puzzles frustrating and overly tedious, with questionable logic hindering the overall experience. Despite some shortcomings, Thimbleweed Park blends nostalgia with modern mechanics to offer a compelling and rewarding gameplay experience appreciated by many reviewers.

Graphics and Visual Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

62%

Mixed (50-79)

38%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Thimbleweed Park are overwhelmingly positive. Many critics praise the game for its nostalgic pixel art style that pays homage to classic adventure games from the '80s and '90s. Critics like CGMagazine, GameSpot, and PlayStation Country appreciate the charming retro visuals that successfully capture the essence of classic LucasArts games. The pixelated graphics are described as detailed, charming, and visually appealing by reviewers such as GameWatcher, Digital Chumps, and VideoGamer. The attention to detail in character animations, environmental props, and level design is also highlighted positively by critics like Game Over Online and GameSpew. Despite the overall positive reception of the graphics, some critics express mixed feelings about the pixelated art style of Thimbleweed Park. Multiplayer.it mentions that while the pixel art graphics evoke nostalgia, they can feel disconnected at times. New Game Network criticizes the level design for feeling disjointed, and Slant Magazine points out that the final act focuses on a bland location, undoing some of the world-building established earlier in the game. Additionally, Ragequit.gr mentions that the nostalgic pixelated graphics may not appeal to modern gamers who prefer more realistic visuals. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Thimbleweed Park successfully captures the magic and charm of classic adventure games through its retro aesthetic and pixel art style. The game's visuals are praised for their attention to detail, engaging aesthetics, and immersive world-building. Critics appreciate how the graphics evoke nostalgia for the golden age of point-and-click adventures while incorporating modern design elements to enhance the player experience. Despite some minor criticisms about disconnected visuals and potential limitations in appeal to modern audiences, Thimbleweed Park is widely regarded as a visually stunning and well-crafted game that effectively transports players back to the era of classic adventure gaming.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics rave about Thimbleweed Park's nostalgic pixel art visuals, praising its homage to classic '80s and '90s adventure games. While some critics have mixed feelings about the art style feeling disconnected at times and the final act focusing on a bland location, overall, the game successfully captures the magic of classic adventure games with detailed graphics, engaging aesthetics, and immersive world-building. Despite minor criticisms, Thimbleweed Park is hailed as visually stunning and a well-crafted trip back to the golden age of point-and-click adventures.

Music and Sound Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

66%

Mixed (50-79)

34%

Negative (0-49)

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

The Sound Design and Music of Thimbleweed Park have received a plethora of positive feedback from critics. Reviewers like Atomix and GameGrin have praised the game's soundtrack, with Atomix specifically highlighting how the music by Steve Kirk complements the 80s suburban setting, creating a deep and immersive experience. Additionally, critics such as The Games Machine and Adventure Gamers have commended the voice acting, with The Games Machine noting the excellent quality of the voice acting, especially in the original English version, contributing to the nostalgic atmosphere of the game. The immersive music, fully voiced characters, and atmospheric world have been highlighted by FNintendo and Gamer.no, further emphasizing the positive impact of the sound design and music on the gameplay experience. On the flip side, some critics have pointed out drawbacks in the Sound Design and Music of Thimbleweed Park. New Game Network criticized the voice acting for feeling stiff and lacking chemistry between characters, with offbeat dialogue taking precedence over character development. IGN's review also mentioned that the voice cast didn't elevate the script as much as in the LucasArts 'talky' days, indicating a potential disconnect between the voice acting and the narrative. NZGamer highlighted that the voice acting was lackluster for some characters, suggesting a lack of consistency in the performances. These criticisms point towards areas where the Sound Design and Music could have been improved to enhance the overall experience of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards the positive aspects of the Sound Design and Music in Thimbleweed Park. The game's captivating soundtrack, excellent voice acting, and immersive atmosphere have been widely praised by reviewers such as TheXboxHub, Digital Chumps, and DualShockers. Despite some critiques regarding voice acting quality and its impact on the narrative, the majority of critics appreciate the nostalgic music, fully voiced characters, and the overall ambiance created by the sound design. Thimbleweed Park successfully blends retro charm with modern elements, offering a compelling audio experience that resonates with fans of classic adventure games.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics praise Thimbleweed Park's Sound Design and Music for its immersive 80s suburban setting soundtrack by Steve Kirk, top-notch voice acting enhancing the nostalgic atmosphere, and captivating ambiance. While some critics note drawbacks like stiff voice acting and lack of chemistry between characters, the overall consensus is positive, with reviewers highlighting the game's retro charm and modern audio experience that appeals to fans of classic adventure games.

Voice Acting

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

56%

Mixed (50-79)

44%

Negative (0-49)

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

The Voice Acting in Thimbleweed Park has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from a majority of critics. Many reviewers praised the voice acting for adding depth, humor, and charm to the quirky characters in the game. Critics like Adventure Gamers and Digital Chumps specifically highlighted the standout performances of characters like Ransome the Insulting Clown, with expertly written dialogue and fully voiced interactions that enhanced the overall experience. The varied cast of characters, each with fitting and unique voices, contributed to making the game more engaging and entertaining, as noted by Cubed3 and DualShockers. On the flip side, there were some mixed opinions regarding the Voice Acting in Thimbleweed Park. While most critics found the voice acting to be well done and enhancing the characters, there were mentions of lackluster performances from some characters. NZGamer pointed out that some characters had lackluster voice acting, and New Game Network criticized the stiffness and lack of chemistry between characters in certain dialogues. Additionally, Metro GameCentral highlighted weak voiceovers attributed to a low budget, which impacted the overall quality of the voice acting in the game. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards the positive side when it comes to the Voice Acting in Thimbleweed Park. The majority of reviewers appreciated the fully voiced characters, varied performances, and the humor and charm added through the voice acting. The expertly written dialogues and unique personalities brought to life by the voice actors were key factors in enhancing the immersive experience of the game. Despite some criticisms regarding certain performances and budget constraints affecting the quality in parts, the general sentiment is that the voice acting in Thimbleweed Park successfully contributes to the overall atmosphere, storytelling, and enjoyment of the game, as echoed by critics like GameSpew and The Games Machine.

TL;DR

voice acting

The voice acting in Thimbleweed Park has garnered high praise from critics for bringing depth, humor, and charm to its quirky characters. While some critics noted lackluster performances and budget constraints affecting quality in parts, the majority agreed that the varied cast and expertly written dialogues enhanced the immersive experience, making the game engaging and entertaining. Overall, critics lean towards the positive side, appreciating the voice acting for its contribution to the atmosphere, storytelling, and enjoyment of the game.

Technical Performance

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

50%

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of the technical performance of Thimbleweed Park across different gaming platforms, the PlayStation 4 version, as experienced by Atomix, is praised for maintaining quality and offering a smooth gameplay experience. The Xbox One versions, as reviewed by Generación Xbox and Hobby Consolas, are generally well-executed, with only minor issues mentioned such as slightly less precise controls compared to the PC version and some minor flaws present. The Nintendo Switch version, according to critics like Cubed3 and Digital Chumps, may have some light stutters on long horizontal scrolling sections, especially in docked mode, but overall runs smoothly with features like a hint hotline. On PC, as highlighted by Areajugones and New Game Network, the technical aspects complement the gameplay and story, with no glitches or crashes reported, making it a standout title in the adventure game genre. Regarding the negatives in technical performance, issues such as minor text errors mentioned by PC Games for the PC version and trickier controls on Xbox One compared to PC, as noted by God is a Geek, stand out. Some critics, like Hobby Consolas, also pointed out slightly less precise controls on the Xbox One version compared to the PC version, impacting the overall experience. Cubed3 highlighted light stutters on the Nintendo Switch during specific gameplay sections, which could potentially detract from the immersion for some players. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall consensus among reviewers is that the technical performance of Thimbleweed Park is solid across all platforms, with no significant issues like slowdown, glitching, or crashes reported that would significantly impact the gameplay experience. Overall, the critics' consensus on the technical performance of Thimbleweed Park is largely positive, with most reviewers acknowledging the smooth gameplay experience across different platforms. Nintendo Life specifically praises the game's performance on the Nintendo Switch, highlighting its stability and lack of significant issues. Areajugones and Multiplayer.it appreciate the technical aspects on PC, emphasizing the seamless integration with gameplay and story. While minor issues like control discrepancies and occasional stutters are mentioned by some critics, the general sentiment is that Thimbleweed Park delivers a solid technical performance, enhancing the overall enjoyment of this adventure game for players across various gaming platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Thimbleweed Park impresses on PlayStation 4 with smooth gameplay, while Xbox One and Nintendo Switch versions have minor issues like control discrepancies and occasional stutters. PC version shines with no glitches, making it a standout adventure game. Overall, critics praise the game's solid technical performance across all platforms, enhancing the overall gameplay experience.

Replay Value

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

38%

Mixed (50-79)

62%

Negative (0-49)

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

In analyzing the opinions of the critics regarding the Replay Value of Thimbleweed Park, it is evident that there are several positive aspects highlighted by the reviewers. Critics such as PlayStation Universe and TheXboxHub praise the game for offering different difficulty modes that cater to both newcomers and experienced players, providing varied challenges and incentives for replaying. Additionally, Generación Xbox and Nintendo Life emphasize the game's multiple characters, alternative paths, and intricate puzzles, which contribute to the overall replayability factor. The inclusion of hidden Easter eggs, character-specific tasks, and engaging storytelling, as noted by 3DJuegos and DarkStation, further enhance the replay value by encouraging players to explore different paths and solutions. On the other hand, some critics express concerns about potential drawbacks that may impact the game's replay value. Critics like FNintendo and Gamer.nl mention issues such as convoluted puzzles, reliance on nostalgia, and potential limitations in appeal to a wider audience due to the game's niche humor and references. Furthermore, FNintendo raises a specific concern about a final puzzle that may require external assistance from a YouTube video, potentially hindering the overall replay experience for some players. These aspects suggest that while Thimbleweed Park offers significant replay value for fans of the genre, there are certain elements that may pose challenges for a broader audience. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards Thimbleweed Park being a game with substantial replay value, particularly for fans of classic graphic adventures and dedicated adventure game aficionados. Critics like SomosXbox and Digitally Downloaded highlight the timeless and enjoyable gaming experience the game provides, while GameSpot and Polygon commend the challenging puzzles, multiple playable characters, and alternative paths that contribute to the game's overall replayability. Despite some concerns raised by certain critics, the majority of opinions suggest that Thimbleweed Park succeeds in offering an engaging and immersive experience with enough depth and variety to warrant multiple playthroughs, making it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a nostalgic yet refreshing adventure game experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics praise Thimbleweed Park for its diverse difficulty modes, engaging storytelling, and intricate puzzles, enhancing its replay value. However, concerns are raised about convoluted puzzles and niche humor potentially limiting its appeal. Overall, the game is recommended for fans of classic graphic adventures and adventure enthusiasts for its challenging gameplay and multiple paths, despite some drawbacks.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

86%

Mixed (50-79)

14%

Negative (0-49)

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

Thimbleweed Park has garnered praise from the majority of critics for its strong points, particularly catering to fans of classic adventure games with its engaging puzzles, witty humor, and nostalgic charm. Critics like Vandal and Metro GameCentral highlight the game's well-crafted gameplay that successfully balances nostalgia with modernization, appealing to both seasoned Adventure Gamers and newcomers alike. The game's intriguing story, challenging puzzles, and memorable characters, as noted by Nintendo Life and Adventure Gamers, contribute to its appeal and make it a standout title in the genre. Additionally, the game's humor, engaging dialogues, and stellar design, as commended by SpazioGames and Arcade Sushi, add depth to the overall experience, making it a must-play for fans of point-and-click adventures. On the flip side, some critics point out certain drawbacks of Thimbleweed Park that may hinder its universal appeal. New Game Network and GamingTrend mention that the game's specific style and heavy reliance on references may alienate players unfamiliar with the genre, potentially impacting their overall enjoyment. Additionally, TheSixthAxis notes that the game can be tough at times, which might pose a challenge for some players. While these criticisms exist, they are outweighed by the positive aspects highlighted by the majority of reviewers, showcasing the game's overall strength and appeal within its target audience. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the overall verdict of Thimbleweed Park. The game is widely regarded as a delightful and engaging experience that successfully captures the spirit of classic adventure games while introducing modern design elements to appeal to contemporary gamers. Critics like Digital Chumps and DualShockers praise the game for blending nostalgia with fresh gameplay mechanics, creating a humorous and enjoyable adventure that pays homage to its predecessors. With its captivating story, challenging puzzles, and immersive sound design, Thimbleweed Park stands out as one of the best adventure games in recent years, earning high praise and recommendations from various critics. Despite some minor flaws and niche appeal, the game's overall quality and nostalgic charm make it a must-play for fans of the genre, solidifying its position as a standout title in the adventure gaming landscape.

TL;DR

Thimbleweed Park is a hit among critics for its engaging puzzles, witty humor, and nostalgic charm that cater to classic adventure game fans. Critics praise its well-crafted gameplay, intriguing story, and memorable characters, making it a standout title in the genre. While some mention drawbacks like its specific style and difficulty level, the game's positive aspects outweigh these criticisms. Overall, Thimbleweed Park is celebrated for blending nostalgia with modern elements, creating an enjoyable experience that appeals to both seasoned players and newcomers in the adventure gaming world.

MONSTER

Reviews

138 reviews found

100

Areajugones

Apr 16, 2017

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

Well-crafted, charming, and enjoyable gaming experience that celebrates the essence of graphic adventures.

Read full review

100

XBLA Fans

Xbox One

Mar 30, 2017

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

Thimbleweed Park is a must-buy for fans of the genre, offering a distillation of everything that makes point-and-click adventures great.

Read full review

100

Adventure Gamers

Mar 30, 2017

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

Thimbleweed Park stands out as one of the best adventure games, offering a nostalgic yet fresh gaming experience with a captivating story, engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and immersive sound design.

Read full review

100

GameGrin

Apr 3, 2017

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

Thimbleweed Park is praised as one of the best adventure games in years, offering a return to form for the genre with humor, challenge, and an engaging storyline.

Read full review

100

DarkStation

Mar 30, 2017

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

Thimbleweed Park is a remarkable graphic adventure that surpasses expectations, offering a nostalgic yet fresh experience with engaging gameplay, clever storytelling, and vibrant visuals.

100

Apr 10, 2017

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

Thimbleweed Park successfully captures the spirit of classic adventure games while maintaining a balance between handholding and mystery. The game's tone oscillates between everyday humor and dark, morbid references. It offers an engaging story and challenging puzzles, making it a worthy spiritual successor to Maniac Mansion.

Ragequit.gr

Mar 30, 2017

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

Thimbleweed Park stands out as a lost masterpiece of LucasArts, offering a lengthy and satisfying adventure with exceptional voice-overs and music, despite the commitment to 1989 graphics.

Read full review

3DJuegos

PlayStation 4

Aug 24, 2017

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

A must-play for fans of the genre, capturing the essence of classic LucasArts games and offering a fun, engaging, and unique experience.

Read full review

XboxAddict

Xbox One

Apr 12, 2017

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

Thimbleweed Park is a must-play for fans of classic adventure games, offering a nostalgic experience with modern updates and a humorous murder mystery plot that keeps players engaged and entertained. Receives high praise for its gameplay, visuals, and sound, earning a rating of 9.5 out of 10.

Read full review

CGMagazine

Apr 19, 2017

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

Thimbleweed Park is an exquisitely crafted experience that is a love letter to the creators' previous works and a must-play for fans of witty writing and old school puzzle games.