Little Big Adventure – Twinsen’s Quest, a reimagining of the 1994 (MS-DOS) classic, makes a visually upgraded and mechanically modernized comeback on the PlayStation 5. Developed by [2.21] and published by Microids, this remake is faithful to the essence of the original while introducing enhancements that aim to appeal to both longtime fans and new players. Set on the mystical planetoid of Twinsun, the game follows Twinsen, an unlikely hero who embarks on a journey to liberate his world from the tyrannical Dr. FunFrock. The story’s themes of freedom and resistance resonate as strongly now as they did in the original, though some gameplay aspects feel dated in contrast to modern action-adventure standards.
The remake’s new visual direction is immediately striking, giving Twinsun’s diverse landscapes and character designs a fresh look. The level layouts have been reimagined, allowing for smoother navigation while preserving the visual charm of the original settings. This updated aesthetic makes the world feel more alive, pulling players into Twinsen’s mission in a way that feels both nostalgic and newly immersive. The game also introduces an updated soundtrack by the original composer, enhancing the atmosphere with music that pays homage to its roots but with a refined sound quality that feels well-suited to modern audio capabilities.
The core gameplay mechanics stay true to the original’s blend of action, puzzle-solving, and exploration, though they’ve been refined for more fluidity and responsiveness. Twinsen’s iconic Magic Ball, used to dispatch foes and interact with the environment, has been retooled for more precise aiming and smoother control, making battles feel more dynamic. That said, the combat is still a bit clunky, especially compared to modern action titles, as Twinsen’s attacks can feel limited in range and variability. Puzzle elements are thoughtfully integrated though, rewarding exploration and patience, though a few puzzles remain as challenging as they were three decades ago, possibly to the frustration of newcomers.
One of the most welcome improvements in this remake is the overhauled control scheme. The original’s controls were notoriously stiff, and this update brings a more accessible feel, allowing players to switch easily between movement modes without the frustration of past iterations. This change makes it easier to engage with both combat and environmental exploration, though there are occasional camera issues that can obstruct visibility in tight spaces, which is a minor drawback in an otherwise well-executed update.
In terms of audio, the remake elevates the game’s soundscape with remastered music and improved sound effects. The new soundtrack, while reminiscent of the original’s iconic tunes, provides a richer and more layered audio experience that enhances both dramatic and quieter moments in Twinsen’s journey. Fans of the original will appreciate the nostalgic callbacks, while newcomers can enjoy a soundtrack that feels fittingly grand for an epic adventure. However, the voice acting retains a retro quality that may feel out of place for players accustomed to the high-quality vocal performances in recent games. This is a title from an era where VO work was rare, and it’s not as refined as what you might be used to.
Little Big Adventure – Twinsen’s Quest successfully revitalizes a beloved classic with a respectful approach that balances nostalgia and modernization. While its old-school quirks might not appeal to everyone, particularly those looking for a streamlined experience, the remake honors the spirit of the original and introduces welcome enhancements in visuals, music, and controls. For fans of 90s action-adventure games and those interested in a unique narrative set in a richly imaginative world, Twinsen’s quest to liberate Twinsun remains an endearing and worthwhile journey on the PlayStation 5, despite a few dated foundations.
Score: 7.2/10
Press Play Media 