Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Ben Jordan: Paranormal Investigator Case 1 offers a classic point-and-click adventure experience reminiscent of early Sierra titles. The interface features icons for walking, looking, talking, using, and grabbing, making every action clear and intuitive. Whether you’re combing through benches in the Florida park or interrogating witnesses, the AGS engine ensures smooth interactions that keep you immersed in the investigation.

Puzzles are logical and integrated seamlessly into the narrative, requiring you to examine clues, combine inventory items, and question characters to make progress. Rather than relying on random trial-and-error, solutions often hinge on careful observation and deductive reasoning—traits befitting a paranormal sleuth. You’ll find yourself revisiting locations and re-examining objects once new information surfaces, which adds a satisfying layer of depth.

Movement and navigation are straightforward: click to walk, click on objects to inspect, and use the dialogue tree to dig deeper into each lead. While some may find the lack of a modern “hint” system challenging, the game encourages lateral thinking and notes-taking, reinforcing the feeling of being a genuine investigator on the trail of a cryptid.

Graphics

Visually, In Search of the Skunk-Ape sports retro pixel art that channels the golden era of adventure games. Detailed backgrounds depict dense foliage, dimly lit campgrounds, and moss-covered trailheads, creating an atmosphere that’s both eerie and authentic. Color palettes shift to reflect time of day and tension, from the bright midday sun to the ominous glow of flashlights after dark.

Character sprites are expressive despite their simplicity, with subtle animations that convey panic, curiosity, and surprise as you interview locals or stumble upon fresh tracks. Environmental animations—rustling leaves, dripping water, or the distant shimmer of a campfire—add life to each scene, making the park feel inhabited rather than static.

While you won’t find high-definition models or dynamic lighting, the art style’s charm lies in its nostalgic appeal. The pixel graphics evoke fond memories of ’90s adventures, and the attention to detail rewards players who appreciate handcrafted backgrounds and mood-setting color choices.

Story

The narrative kicks off with an urgent phone call: a series of grisly attacks in a Florida park attributed to the legendary Skunk-Ape. As Ben Jordan, you arrive to discover a blend of local folklore and genuine fear gripping the town. The writing balances humor and suspense, punctuating tense moments with wry observations from Ben’s inner monologue.

Dialogue is sharp and purposeful, revealing both personality and clues. Townspeople range from loquacious cryptozoologists to frightened campers, each offering pieces of the puzzle—or red herrings. Your questions can unlock side details about past sightings, regional legends, and potential motives, enriching the investigation beyond the central mystery.

Pacing is deliberate, allowing the tension to build as night falls and strange noises echo through the trees. Every breakthrough—whether a footprint, a discarded flashlight, or a secret campsite—feels earned, and the game’s climax delivers a satisfying payoff that blends supernatural intrigue with detective work.

Overall Experience

Ben Jordan: Paranormal Investigator Case 1 is a love letter to classic adventure gamers, combining thoughtful puzzles, engaging dialogue, and a moody setting. Its modest production values are outweighed by a solid script and clever design, making it easy to overlook the retro graphics in favor of genuine storytelling.

If you’re drawn to paranormal themes, cryptid lore, or old-school point-and-click mechanics, this first installment sets a strong foundation. The moderate difficulty curve and emphasis on exploration encourage careful note-taking and backtracking, delivering a rewarding sense of discovery.

While it may not boast modern conveniences like voice acting or elaborate animations, the game’s strengths lie in its atmosphere, writing, and puzzle design. For adventure aficionados seeking a concise but memorable paranormal mystery, Ben Jordan’s debut case is a compelling—and surprisingly chilling—journey into the heart of Skunk-Ape country.

Retro Replay Score

7.2/10