Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed marks a video game return for Mickey Mouse, thrusting him back into the fantastical world of Wasteland. This updated version of the original 2010 Wii-exclusive release, developed by Purple Lamp and published by THQ Nordic, brings new life to a beloved and perhaps forgotten platformer, now presented with modern visuals and improved gameplay mechanics. At its heart, the game remains a delightful 3D platformer that lets players experience a unique blend of creativity and choice as they guide Mickey on a mission to restore and reshape a world filled with Disney characters. We checked it out on a PlayStation 5.
The core narrative is engaging, as it centers on Mickey wielding a magical paintbrush that allows players to shape the game’s environments and story. Paint restores beauty to the world, while thinner erases obstacles, creating a balance between creation and destruction. This dynamic system gives players the freedom to approach challenges in different ways, and some of the decisions they make even influence the outcome of the story. Returning to Wasteland is a nostalgic treat for fans of Disney history, especially with more obscure characters like Oswald the Lucky Rabbit making appearances, adding depth and Disney fan service to the tale.
While the narrative and characters remain compelling, it’s the gameplay mechanics that have seen the most improvement in “Rebrushed.” Purple Lamp has reworked the controls, making them more fluid and responsive compared to the original. Mickey’s new abilities, such as dash, sprint, and ground pound, add more versatility to his movement, and these changes help modernize the platforming experience. However, despite these improvements, some of the platforming sections can still feel a bit stiff or dated, especially when compared to more recent platforming titles. Nevertheless, the game’s high level of replayability, thanks to its multiple endings and branching paths, keeps players invested.
Visually, Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed shines with its reworked 4K graphics. Wasteland, a decaying world based on forgotten Disney lore, is brought to life with stunning details and vibrant colors, immersing players in a world that feels like a blend of old and new. The lighting effects in particular are noteworthy, adding depth to the environments and making the contrast between areas restored with paint and those altered by thinner more striking. Yet, while the visuals are impressive, there are occasional moments where the camera can become an issue, particularly in tighter platforming sections, which might frustrate some players.
The audio design has also been given an update, with fully remastered sound effects and music that amplify the game’s Disney magic. The voice acting, particularly for Mickey and Oswald, is charming and helps draw players into the whimsical yet melancholic world of Wasteland. However, some background tracks can feel repetitive during longer play sessions, though they generally fit the tone of the game well.
What the developers have done well here lies in their ability to evoke nostalgia while still offering something fresh. Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed doesn’t shy away from its roots, but it reimagines the gameplay with modern gamers in mind. The creative mechanics of paint and thinner, combined with the more fluid controls, help elevate the experience, even if a few rough edges from the original remain. Fans of the series will appreciate the refinements, while newcomers will find a colorful, engaging platformer with plenty of Disney magic to explore. As such, Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed succeeds in reviving a classic, offering a visually stunning and mechanically improved version of the original. It’s a must-play for Disney fans and a solid platformer for anyone looking for a unique take on the genre.
Score: 8.0/10
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