Top-5 Outstanding "Return to Monkey Island" Alternative Games

There's no denying the charm, wit, and fun of "Return to Monkey Island", the long-standing classic point-and-click adventure game. But what happens once you've completed it, or if you fancy a change of scenery? This roundup of five top alternatives offers wonderful experiences that are just as riveting in terms of gameplay, story, and setting. So buckle up and join us on this ride into lands of adventure and quirky humor in the mold of "Return to Monkey Island".

1. The Secret of Monkey Island

First off, we ought to mention “The Secret of Monkey Island.” This classic game, released in 1990 and remastered in 2009, would make a great alternative, especially as it's part of the same franchise and presents a highly engaging story

Gameplay, Story, and Setting:

As a player, you navigate an intricately crafted Caribbean pirate world through Guybrush Threepwood, a wannabe pirate. The gameplay involves solving puzzles and engaging in witty dialogues, much similar to "Return to Monkey Island.". The story, driven by humor and surprises, involves Guybrush trying to become a pirate and stumbling upon the eponymous "Secret of Monkey Island". The setting, a tongue-in-cheek version of the Caribbean dotted with pirates and zombie ghost pirates, provides a charming backdrop to this adventure journey.

2. Broken Age

Designed by the legendary game architect, Tim Schafer, “Broken Age” is a point-and-click adventure game that combines brain-teasing puzzles with a compelling narrative in a colorful setting.

Gameplay, Story, and Setting:

The game allows the player to control two characters living in separate worlds, both facing unique challenges. Players must solve puzzles and discover the connection between these two characters. The story is a delightful mix of fantasy and science fiction: one character is trying to escape a protected life on his spaceship while the other is rebelling against her village's tradition of sacrificing maidens to a sea-monster. The vibrant, hand-painted setting adds visual appeal to this captivating game.

3. Day of the Tentacle Remastered

"Day of the Tentacle Remastered” is an upgrade from the original 90s classic, revitalizing it with improved graphics and sound. The game takes you on a hilarious and weird trip through time and is perfect for fans of humor-based adventure games.

Gameplay, Story, and Setting:

This point-and-click game involves solving hilariously mind-bending puzzles by collecting, combining, and using objects. You'll manage three friends as they attempt to stop the evil Purple Tentacle from taking over the world. The story is filled with comedy, twists, and time-travel. It's set in and around a peculiar mansion and its rooms that you'll visit in diverse historical periods, from Colonial times to the future.

4. Grim Fandango Remastered

"Grim Fandango Remastered" revisits one of LucasArts' most celebrated adventure games with enhanced visuals and audios. This offbeat game combines film noir elements and Mexican folklore in a story about love, betrayal, and corruption.

Gameplay, Story, and Setting:

The player takes control of Manny Calavera, a travel agent at the Department of Death, navigating 3D environments while interacting with other characters and solving puzzles. The story, molded in the tradition of noir narratives like "Casablanca" and "The Maltese Falcon", is about Manny uncovering corruption in his workplace while chasing his lost love. The game's setting is an enchanting blend of noir aesthetics and Mexican Day of The Dead imagery.

5. Thimbleweed Park

"Thimbleweed Park" pays homage to 80s mystery adventure games, packed with quirky humor and a colorful cast of characters. If you're a fan of both mystery and comedy, this game is for you.

Gameplay, Story, and Setting:

The gameplay involves controlling five characters to explore the town, engage in dialogues, and solve puzzles. The plot feels like a blend of Twin Peaks and X-Files, involving two washed-up detectives who investigate a dead body found in the river just outside of Thimbleweed Park. The game’s setting, a town with a dark secret, gives a retro vibe enhancing the overall gameplay.

All these games offer something unique and different, yet maintain that absurdist charm and sense of adventure that makes "Return to Monkey Island" so beloved. So, if you're looking for something different but similar, give these games a go. You won't be disappointed.