Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Crime Stories: From the Files of Martin Mystère adopts the classic point-and-click formula, inviting players to thoroughly explore each screen for clues. The simple interface, with its clickable hotspots and inventory bar, keeps interactions straightforward. Whether examining a suspicious artifact in an Aztec ruin or questioning a shady character in a New York alley, every click matters as you piece together the threads of Professor Eulemberg’s murder.

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Puzzles range from inventory-based tasks—combining objects or using tools in creative ways—to dialogue riddles that test your deductive skills. While some puzzles lean on trial and error, most are logically designed around the narrative, rewarding careful observation and note-taking. If you’re a fan of classic adventures, you’ll appreciate how the game balances challenge without ever feeling unfair.

Navigation is smooth and intuitive, with Java’s hints and Diana’s insights often guiding you when you feel stuck. The ability to switch between Martin, Diana, and Java at key moments adds variety, allowing different perspectives on the investigation. This mechanic not only spices up the gameplay but also deepens your engagement with their distinct detective styles.

Graphics

The visual presentation of Crime Stories is distinctly 1990s pixel art, brimming with colorful hand-drawn backgrounds that capture the spirit of Alfredo Castelli’s comic book world. From the dusty corridors of the Aztec temple to the neon-lit streets of New York City, each location is rendered with care, evoking a sense of place that amplifies the mystery.

Character sprites are expressive, albeit simplistic, yet they effectively convey emotion through subtle animations—raised eyebrows, puzzled looks, and dramatic gestures during key story beats. Cutscenes, though limited in frame-by-frame animation, employ well-composed stills and occasional movement to dramatize tense discoveries or villainous reveals by Mister Jinx.

Lighting and color palettes shift to suit the mood: warm oranges and browns in the archaeological dig, cold blues and greys in urban investigations. While modern players may find the resolution dated, the game’s art style carries a nostalgic charm that adventure aficionados will recognize and appreciate.

Story

Based on the beloved Martin Mystère comic by Alfredo Castelli, the narrative plunges you into a globe-spanning investigation. When M.I.T. researcher Professor Eulemberg is discovered murdered, Martin Mystère—alongside girlfriend Diana and loyal assistant Java—unravels a trail leading from Manhattan’s academic circles to a remote Aztec archaeological site in Mexico.

The plot thickens as you learn that Eulemberg was on the brink of discovering the secret to eternal youth. His assistant Alexander’s research in Mexico provides tantalizing clues, but also attracts the sinister attention of Mister Jinx, a master manipulator with his own designs on immortality. The interplay between these characters keeps the story taut, with unexpected twists that echo the comic’s blend of science fiction and noir detective tropes.

Dialogue is well-written and often witty, reflecting Martin’s dry humor and Diana’s sharp intelligence. Though voice acting is sparse or absent, text boxes flow naturally, ensuring key revelations land with impact. If you care about plot-driven adventures, this murder mystery offers a satisfying, well-paced narrative that stays true to its source material.

Overall Experience

Crime Stories: From the Files of Martin Mystère is a nostalgic journey for fans of 1990s point-and-click adventures and comic aficionados alike. Its straightforward interface and logical puzzle design make it accessible to newcomers, while the depth of its story and character interactions provide ample rewards for veteran sleuths.

Despite its age, the game maintains a cohesive atmosphere: the contrast between urban grit and ancient ruins underscores the stakes of your investigation. Martin’s globe-trotting quest for the secret of eternal youth feels epic yet personal, thanks to strong writing and memorable setpieces. Mister Jinx emerges as a worthy adversary, adding a layer of urgency to your every decision.

Whether you’re drawn by the Martin Mystère license or simply seeking a classic adventure experience, Crime Stories delivers an engaging detective tale. Its blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and rich narrative ensures you’ll remain captivated from the first clue to the final revelation. This title stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of point-and-click storytelling.

Retro Replay Score

5.9/10