Disney Illusion Island is the perfect family game

Playing Disney Illusion Island has brought me full-circle in my gaming journey. Some of my earliest memories involve playing Disney games with my single mother, and now I’ve had the pleasure of playing Illusion Island with her. This is significant because my mother’s gaming experience has been limited in the past 20 years, aside from a few games like Sackboy: A Big Adventure and It Takes Two. However, Disney Illusion Island has been a smooth and enjoyable experience for her.

The latest game from Dlala Studios, the developers of Battletoads (2020), takes the conventions of the “Metroidvania” genre and makes them accessible to all players. Illusion Island can be played alone or with up to four players in co-op mode, making it the perfect family game.

Right from the start, Illusion Island captures your attention with its delightful 2D art style, reminiscent of classic Mickey Mouse cartoons. The game also features the authentic voices of Disney characters, including Bret Iwan as Mickey, Kaitlyn Robrock as Minnie, Tony Anselmo as Donald, and Bill Farmer as Goofy.

In terms of story, Illusion Island follows Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy as they embark on a quest to save the mysterious island of Monoth by finding three tomes. While the plot may be standard, the game’s writing adds a touch of humor, especially with the character of Donald, which will surely entertain kids.

The real standout feature of Illusion Island is its world. Monoth is divided into three distinct biomes: Pavonia, filled with vibrant flora and fauna; Gizmopolis, a futuristic-looking area; and Astrono, with a stunning constellation theme. The diverse locations add depth to Mickey and his friends’ grand adventure. Along the way, players will encounter quirky characters like the alligator inventor Mazzy and the robot scout Jido, who further enhance the world of Monoth.

The level design in Illusion Island is well-crafted, considering the lack of combat. Players navigate through platforming sections, avoiding enemies and hazards. Occasionally, they face boss fights where platforming skills are essential for dealing damage. As the game progresses, players unlock new abilities that expand their capabilities, such as a double jump, wall clinging, and rope swinging. Each character has their own visually unique version of these abilities, adding a touch of personality.

The simplicity of the ability set in Illusion Island ensures that players of all ages can enjoy the game. It allows for the satisfaction of returning to previous areas and using newfound abilities to unlock previously inaccessible paths. The game strikes a balance that makes it a perfect entry point to the Metroidvania genre.

Illusion Island goes above and beyond to be accessible to players. From the start, players can choose the number of hearts they have, providing options for different difficulty levels. The game also encourages collaboration through mechanics like hugging teammates to restore hearts. These touches, like Donald’s eye-rolling before embracing, add to the game’s charm.

Co-op gameplay in Illusion Island allows for unique interactions with teammates. Players can ‘leapfrog’ over each other to increase jumping distance and drop a rope for friends to climb. This feature, in particular, stands out as it allows less experienced players to receive help while retaining control over their character. It fosters a sense of involvement for kids and frustrated parents, making it a truly inclusive experience.

Despite its merits, Illusion Island does have its shortcomings in terms of exploration. Unlockable rewards primarily consist of collectible artwork, which may not feel meaningful enough for some players. Additionally, the repetitive nature of finding three keys to unlock a door slightly detracts from the game’s overall charms.

Nevertheless, Illusion Island is a fantastic addition to the Metroidvania genre. It brilliantly combines the universal appeal of Mickey Mouse with an inviting platforming experience. The ability to play with friends and family only enhances the game’s appeal. For Switch owners seeking a new family game, Disney Illusion Island is a must-play.

Disney Illusion Island will be released exclusively on the Nintendo Switch on July 28th.

Image credit: Disney Games

 

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