A captivating tale of magical paint
By Paul Hunter
Disney's iconic character Mickey Mouse returns in an epic adventure with the release of Epic Mickey: Rebrushed. Developed by Purple Lamp Studios and published by THQ Nordic, this remake breathes new life into a cult classic that first debuted on the Nintendo Wii in 2010.
Stepping into the shoes of the iconic mouse, the game takes you on a journey through the whimsical yet dark world of Wasteland, a realm that houses all the forgotten and discarded Disney characters. This reimagining of the original Epic Mickey title offers a unique blend of platforming, exploration, and a touch of nostalgia that will captivate both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
The story follows Mickey as he finds himself trapped in Wasteland, a consequence of his own mischievous actions in the past. With the help of his magical paintbrush, you must navigate this forgotten world, using the power of paint to restore and revive the forgotten characters and environments, or the power of thinner to dissolve and manipulate them.
This remake not only enhances the visuals with a stunning HD-2D art style but also addresses several of the technical issues that plagued the original release. Improved controls, camera management, and quality-of-life features make the gameplay more accessible and enjoyable, while still preserving the core essence of the original adventure. Let's dive in and discuss in more detail!
Epic Mickey: Rebrushed takes you on a whimsical journey through the Wasteland where Mickey unexpectedly finds himself trapped, tasked with unravelling its mysteries and restoring the enchanting realm to its former glory.
The narrative cleverly weaves together elements from Lewis Carroll's Alice Through the Looking-Glass, seamlessly blending the familiar Disney charm with a delightfully dark and imaginative twist. Tons of familiar Disney characters will meet you along the journey, including Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, Donald Duck, Captain Hook, the Cheshire Cat and many more.
One of the standout aspects of the story is the way it pays homage to Disney's rich history. Throughout your adventure, you'll stumble upon references to classic cartoons, long-forgotten characters, and even nods to Walt Disney's own creative process. These subtle details add depth and authenticity to the experience, making you feel like you're truly exploring the forgotten corners of the Disney universe.
The relationship between Mickey Mouse and Oswald the Lucky Rabbit is particularly captivating. As the once-forgotten character who paved the way for the rise of Mickey Mouse, Oswald's journey of redemption and the duo's evolving dynamic add emotional weight to the narrative. You'll find yourself invested in their personal struggles and the larger-than-life stakes that threaten to tear Wasteland apart.
The narrative also presents you with meaningful choices that have tangible consequences on the world around you. The power of your magical paintbrush, which can either restore or dissolve the environment, allows you to shape the story in unique ways. These decisions not only impact the outcome of specific quests but also influence how the inhabitants of Wasteland perceive Mickey Mouse, adding a layer of moral complexity to the adventure. Overall, the narrative's blend of nostalgia, character development, and meaningful choices make it a must-play experience for fans of the original and Disney fans in general.
Epic Mickey: Rebrushed offers an exciting gameplay experience that blends classic platforming with a unique twist. At the heart of the adventure lies Mickey Mouse's magical paintbrush, which grants you the power to shape the world around you. With a simple flick of the brush, you can either paint or thin out the environment, creating new pathways or removing obstacles in your way.
This mechanic adds a delightful layer of creativity and problem-solving to the gameplay unlike any platforming game before it. As you explore the diverse realms of Wasteland, you'll encounter puzzles that challenge you to strategically use your paintbrush to progress. Do you paint over a crumbling platform to solidify it, or do you thin out a barrier to uncover a hidden passage? The choice is yours, and the consequences of your actions can have a significant impact on the world.
The levels themselves are expertly crafted, offering a seamless blend of 3D platforming and 2D homages to classic Disney cartoons. You'll traverse vibrant environments, each with its own unique aesthetic and personality, inspired by the rich history of the Disney universe. From the whimsical Steamboat Willie-inspired levels to the eerie, gothic-tinged areas, the game's visual diversity keeps the experience fresh and engaging.
Complementing the platforming are a variety of side quests and collectibles that encourage you to delve deeper into the world of Wasteland. Whether you're helping a struggling private investigator or uncovering the secrets of long-forgotten Disney characters, these optional activities add depth and replayability to the adventure.
While the core gameplay remains largely unchanged from the original Epic Mickey, the developers at Purple Lamp have made a concerted effort to address some of the technical issues that plagued the previous iteration. The camera system, for instance, has been significantly improved, providing a more responsive and intuitive way to navigate the environments. Additionally, the controls have been refined to feel more natural and responsive on modern controllers, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience. All told, the game's unique blend of platforming, environmental manipulation, and narrative choices create a compelling adventure this simply shouldn't be missed.
Epic Mickey: Rebrushed is developed using the Unreal Engine 4, and it boasts a stunning HD-2D art style that breathes new life into the classic Disney aesthetic. The vibrant environments are meticulously crafted, with a level of detail that truly immerses you in the world of Wasteland.
The character designs are equally impressive, capturing the whimsical and expressive nature of the iconic Disney cast. Mickey, our daring hero, has never looked better, with his expressive animations and detailed textures. The supporting cast of characters, both familiar and forgotten, are equally well designed, particularly the main supporting characters Oswald and Gremlin Gus, and the antagonist the Mad Doctor.
The visual fidelity extends beyond the in-game environments, with the cinematic cutscenes receiving a complete overhaul. These fully-rendered scenes are a visual treat, seamlessly blending the game's art style with high-quality character models and fluid animation. You'll find yourself captivated by the storytelling, as the narrative unfolds through these beautifully presented sequences.
Complementing the visual splendour is the game's exceptional audio design. The orchestral soundtrack is a true highlight, with sweeping melodies that perfectly capture the emotional beats of the adventure. The music effortlessly transitions between whimsical, dark, and triumphant tones, reflecting the diverse moods and themes of the narrative.
The sound effects are equally well-crafted, adding a layer of realism to the gameplay. The satisfying crunch of Mickey Mouse's paintbrush, the eerie ambience of the forgotten realms, and the dynamic cues during combat all contribute to an immersive audio experience. While the game does not feature full voice acting, the limited vocal performances, such as the narrator's lines, are well-delivered and add to the overall presentation.
One of the standout features of Rebrushed's audio is the inclusion of digitised versions of classic Disney cartoons. As you progress through the game, you'll have the opportunity to revisit these iconic shorts, which have been carefully restored and integrated into the experience. Hearing the familiar melodies and sound effects from these beloved animations is a true treat for long-time fans and a delightful discovery for newcomers.
Final Score: 8.5/10 - Great
Developer: Purple Lamp
Publisher: THQ Nordic
Genre: Platformer, Action Adventure
Modes: Single-player
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10+)
A key was provided by the publisher.
By Paul Hunter
Disney's iconic character Mickey Mouse returns in an epic adventure with the release of Epic Mickey: Rebrushed. Developed by Purple Lamp Studios and published by THQ Nordic, this remake breathes new life into a cult classic that first debuted on the Nintendo Wii in 2010.
Stepping into the shoes of the iconic mouse, the game takes you on a journey through the whimsical yet dark world of Wasteland, a realm that houses all the forgotten and discarded Disney characters. This reimagining of the original Epic Mickey title offers a unique blend of platforming, exploration, and a touch of nostalgia that will captivate both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
The story follows Mickey as he finds himself trapped in Wasteland, a consequence of his own mischievous actions in the past. With the help of his magical paintbrush, you must navigate this forgotten world, using the power of paint to restore and revive the forgotten characters and environments, or the power of thinner to dissolve and manipulate them.
This remake not only enhances the visuals with a stunning HD-2D art style but also addresses several of the technical issues that plagued the original release. Improved controls, camera management, and quality-of-life features make the gameplay more accessible and enjoyable, while still preserving the core essence of the original adventure. Let's dive in and discuss in more detail!
Epic Mickey: Rebrushed takes you on a whimsical journey through the Wasteland where Mickey unexpectedly finds himself trapped, tasked with unravelling its mysteries and restoring the enchanting realm to its former glory.
The narrative cleverly weaves together elements from Lewis Carroll's Alice Through the Looking-Glass, seamlessly blending the familiar Disney charm with a delightfully dark and imaginative twist. Tons of familiar Disney characters will meet you along the journey, including Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, Donald Duck, Captain Hook, the Cheshire Cat and many more.
One of the standout aspects of the story is the way it pays homage to Disney's rich history. Throughout your adventure, you'll stumble upon references to classic cartoons, long-forgotten characters, and even nods to Walt Disney's own creative process. These subtle details add depth and authenticity to the experience, making you feel like you're truly exploring the forgotten corners of the Disney universe.
The relationship between Mickey Mouse and Oswald the Lucky Rabbit is particularly captivating. As the once-forgotten character who paved the way for the rise of Mickey Mouse, Oswald's journey of redemption and the duo's evolving dynamic add emotional weight to the narrative. You'll find yourself invested in their personal struggles and the larger-than-life stakes that threaten to tear Wasteland apart.
The narrative also presents you with meaningful choices that have tangible consequences on the world around you. The power of your magical paintbrush, which can either restore or dissolve the environment, allows you to shape the story in unique ways. These decisions not only impact the outcome of specific quests but also influence how the inhabitants of Wasteland perceive Mickey Mouse, adding a layer of moral complexity to the adventure. Overall, the narrative's blend of nostalgia, character development, and meaningful choices make it a must-play experience for fans of the original and Disney fans in general.
Epic Mickey: Rebrushed offers an exciting gameplay experience that blends classic platforming with a unique twist. At the heart of the adventure lies Mickey Mouse's magical paintbrush, which grants you the power to shape the world around you. With a simple flick of the brush, you can either paint or thin out the environment, creating new pathways or removing obstacles in your way.
This mechanic adds a delightful layer of creativity and problem-solving to the gameplay unlike any platforming game before it. As you explore the diverse realms of Wasteland, you'll encounter puzzles that challenge you to strategically use your paintbrush to progress. Do you paint over a crumbling platform to solidify it, or do you thin out a barrier to uncover a hidden passage? The choice is yours, and the consequences of your actions can have a significant impact on the world.
The levels themselves are expertly crafted, offering a seamless blend of 3D platforming and 2D homages to classic Disney cartoons. You'll traverse vibrant environments, each with its own unique aesthetic and personality, inspired by the rich history of the Disney universe. From the whimsical Steamboat Willie-inspired levels to the eerie, gothic-tinged areas, the game's visual diversity keeps the experience fresh and engaging.
Complementing the platforming are a variety of side quests and collectibles that encourage you to delve deeper into the world of Wasteland. Whether you're helping a struggling private investigator or uncovering the secrets of long-forgotten Disney characters, these optional activities add depth and replayability to the adventure.
While the core gameplay remains largely unchanged from the original Epic Mickey, the developers at Purple Lamp have made a concerted effort to address some of the technical issues that plagued the previous iteration. The camera system, for instance, has been significantly improved, providing a more responsive and intuitive way to navigate the environments. Additionally, the controls have been refined to feel more natural and responsive on modern controllers, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience. All told, the game's unique blend of platforming, environmental manipulation, and narrative choices create a compelling adventure this simply shouldn't be missed.
Epic Mickey: Rebrushed is developed using the Unreal Engine 4, and it boasts a stunning HD-2D art style that breathes new life into the classic Disney aesthetic. The vibrant environments are meticulously crafted, with a level of detail that truly immerses you in the world of Wasteland.
The character designs are equally impressive, capturing the whimsical and expressive nature of the iconic Disney cast. Mickey, our daring hero, has never looked better, with his expressive animations and detailed textures. The supporting cast of characters, both familiar and forgotten, are equally well designed, particularly the main supporting characters Oswald and Gremlin Gus, and the antagonist the Mad Doctor.
The visual fidelity extends beyond the in-game environments, with the cinematic cutscenes receiving a complete overhaul. These fully-rendered scenes are a visual treat, seamlessly blending the game's art style with high-quality character models and fluid animation. You'll find yourself captivated by the storytelling, as the narrative unfolds through these beautifully presented sequences.
Complementing the visual splendour is the game's exceptional audio design. The orchestral soundtrack is a true highlight, with sweeping melodies that perfectly capture the emotional beats of the adventure. The music effortlessly transitions between whimsical, dark, and triumphant tones, reflecting the diverse moods and themes of the narrative.
The sound effects are equally well-crafted, adding a layer of realism to the gameplay. The satisfying crunch of Mickey Mouse's paintbrush, the eerie ambience of the forgotten realms, and the dynamic cues during combat all contribute to an immersive audio experience. While the game does not feature full voice acting, the limited vocal performances, such as the narrator's lines, are well-delivered and add to the overall presentation.
One of the standout features of Rebrushed's audio is the inclusion of digitised versions of classic Disney cartoons. As you progress through the game, you'll have the opportunity to revisit these iconic shorts, which have been carefully restored and integrated into the experience. Hearing the familiar melodies and sound effects from these beloved animations is a true treat for long-time fans and a delightful discovery for newcomers.
The Verdict
The long-awaited return of Mickey Mouse in the form of Epic Mickey: Rebrushed is an exciting mix of nostalgia and modern refinements. Visually, Rebrushed is a significant step up, with a stunning HD-2D art style that breathes new life into the colourful and imaginative world of Wasteland. Add in a revamped camera system, new movement options such as sprinting and a ground pound attack, and lots of technical improvements, this remake will surely satisfy those looking for their next epic Disney adventure.Final Score: 8.5/10 - Great
Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed details
Platform: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PCDeveloper: Purple Lamp
Publisher: THQ Nordic
Genre: Platformer, Action Adventure
Modes: Single-player
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10+)
A key was provided by the publisher.