Now it’s time for me to give you my list of the Top 8 Best Point and Click Adventure Games of all Time.
Number 8: Machinarium (2009):
The game features a stunning and immensely detailed universe that captivates equally by its beautiful art design and rewarding gameplay. Now available for iOS, Android and Windows Phone, Machinarium takes place in a world inhabited by robots. You play as a Robot named Joseph who can interact with his world in a manner similar to most games in this genre, but he can only do so if objects are in his reach. You can also use his stretch and shrink abilities. The entire game is a series of mind testing puzzles, thankfully there’s a helpful hint system on hand to make things easier. The game world is gorgeous with a kind of surrealist cyber steampunk visual style that you’ll never forget.
Number 7: Grim Fandango (1998):
A game that popularised 3D computer graphics overlaid with pre-rendered static backgrounds. It made use of dark neo-noir comedic elements with Aztec calaca-style character art design. You plays a Manny, who works in the Department of Death, you must sell a Premium travel package or lose your job. The game features challenging puzzles, great humour and a hugely original story setting and narrative. A classic game in the genre.
Number 6: Myst (1993):
The classic graphic adventure, puzzle video game was so successful it’s been ported to numerous consoles and mobile devices. It also birthed a genre that’s included Gabriel Knight, The 7th Guest and many others. You play as a stranger who uses a special book to travel to the island of myst. You travel to several other worlds called Ages as you unravel the backstory of the characters.
Number 5: Blade Runner (1997):
This game wasn’t a sequel or even a remake of the cult classic sci-fi film, it was instead based during the events of the movie, but with a new protagonist. This real-time post-apocalyptic point-and-click adventure featured great graphics for the time, immersive gameplay, wonderful voice acting and authentic continuity adherence to the film. Above all, the soundtrack and atmosphere are second to none. There was huge replay value here also with multiple paths leading a whopping 13 different endings.
Number 4: Gabriel Knight: Sins of the Fathers (1993):
You play Gabriel Knight, a struggling writer and owner of a rare book store. You investigate a series of local murders, which you plan to use as the basis of your new novel. The story unfolds over the course of several days, you must solve a series of puzzles on each day to progress the story forward. It’s a colourful, rich and believable universe filled with interesting and engaging characters and a solid story. A classic point-and-click adventure.
Number 3: The Secret of Monkey Island (1990):
This fantasy Caribbiean Pirate game is one of the most popular point-and-click games and features on most people’s all time favourite lists. You must successfully complete a series of challenges in order to become a pirate. There’s some really fun characters here and the diversity in tasks and trials is most welcome. The game has achieved iconic status in the genre and is even featured in Computer Gaming World’s Hall of Fame.
Number 2: Gemini Rue (2011):
It may look like a retro classic, but Gemini Rue is in fact a modern game released in 2011 and then later on iOS a few years later. You play Azriel in this cyberpunk graphic adventure set in the Gemini System in the 23rd Century. You occasionally switch between Azriel and another character and gradually the two disparate stories begin to come together. The twists and turns in the story are truly thought provoking and shocking. Well worth a look.
Number 1: Indiana Jones and the Fate of Atlantis (1992):
A classic Lucas Arts point-and-click adventure that would have made for an awesome film in the franchise. Fate of Atlantis offers players three different story paths to choose from, each with a unique conclusion. Set in 1939 you play Indiana Jones of course but the character isn’t voiced by Harrison Ford. When a mysterious statue is acquired by member of the Third Reich, Indy must go in search of its relevance. He’s accompanied by a new companion Sophia Hapgood. You travel the world unravelling a deeper mystery that leads you to a dramatic showdown in the lost city of Atlantis.
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