Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

The Game That Takes Place on a Cruise Ship offers a classic 2D point-and-click experience that feels both familiar and refreshingly modern. Players guide Gertrude Zzyrgenhymer—an unconventional, blue-haired heroine—through the sprawling decks of the S.S. Asylum, interacting with objects, solving puzzles, and uncovering hidden secrets. The interface is intuitive, with clearly defined hotspots and a cursor that changes shape to indicate possible actions, making exploration smooth and frustration-free.

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One of the standout features is the branching narrative structure. Your choices not only affect how NPCs react to Gertrude but also influence the puzzles you’ll face later in the game. With four distinct story paths leading to four unique endings, there’s ample incentive to replay and experiment with different dialogue options and problem-solving strategies. This nonlinear approach adds an impressive level of depth to what might otherwise have been a straightforward adventure.

Puzzles are woven naturally into the cruise-ship setting: fixing a broken intercom to eavesdrop on gossip, retrieving an item from a locked cabin, or even organizing a spontaneous deck party to gain a character’s trust. Difficulty remains balanced throughout, with a gradual ramp-up that invites you to think creatively without ever feeling stuck for too long. If you do hit a roadblock, subtle hints and in-game journals help nudge you in the right direction.

Graphics

Visually, the game embraces a vibrant cartoon aesthetic that perfectly complements its wry humor. Backgrounds are richly detailed, from the gleaming pool deck to the shadowy engine room, each location brimming with personality. Hand-drawn characters stand out against these backdrops, sporting bold outlines and exaggerated features that give them instant charm.

Character sprites are fluidly animated, with Gertrude’s signature blue hair bobbing as she walks and expressive reactions that bring conversations to life. Minor touches—like the way her eyebrows arch during a sarcastic remark—show a clear commitment to animation quality. Even secondary NPCs feel alive, with idle motions and unique walking styles that underscore their quirks.

The color palette strikes an appealing balance between bright, beachy tones and the darker, more mysterious corners of the ship. Lighting effects—such as the warm glow of the casino or the eerie luminescence of the ship’s underbelly—add atmosphere without taxing system resources. Overall, the graphics manage to be both polished and full of character, making every scene worth exploring.

Story

The narrative kicks off when Gertrude Zzyrgenhymer, a down-on-her-luck lady with a penchant for sharp wit, wins an all-expenses-paid trip aboard the S.S. Asylum. From the moment she steps on deck, the game’s offbeat tone is clear: you’ll encounter everything from friendly retirees to suspicious cruise staff, each wanting something from Gertrude or offering a tantalizing side quest.

What truly sets the story apart is its branching architecture. Key decisions—like whether to side with the ship’s management or the rowdy cabin attendants—have ripple effects, unlocking entirely different dialogue branches and puzzle sequences. These divergent paths don’t just lead to different endings; they reshape Gertrude’s relationships, her moral standing, and how the final act unfolds under the moonlit ocean sky.

Despite the comedic veneer, the game doesn’t shy away from emotional beats. Moments of genuine vulnerability—Gertrude’s struggle with unemployment, her awkward attempts at forming friendships—lend depth to her character. The writing strikes a deft balance between laugh-out-loud gags and subtle introspection, ensuring the story feels both entertaining and unexpectedly heartfelt.

Overall Experience

The Game That Takes Place on a Cruise Ship excels at delivering a cohesive package: tight point-and-click mechanics, eye-catching cartoon visuals, and a narrative that rewards curiosity. Whether you’re a veteran adventure gamer or someone looking for a lighthearted escape, there’s plenty to enjoy. The branching storylines alone provide significant replay value, making each voyage aboard the S.S. Asylum feel fresh.

On the downside, some players might find a few puzzle solutions a bit opaque without consulting a walkthrough, and dialogue pacing can occasionally feel uneven if you explore certain areas out of sequence. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise polished title that clearly benefits from thoughtful design and attention to detail.

All told, The Game That Takes Place on a Cruise Ship is a delightful journey that offers both laughs and surprises. Gertrude Zzyrgenhymer is a memorable protagonist, and the S.S. Asylum proves to be a setting ripe for discovery. If you’re seeking a narrative-rich adventure with cartoony flair and plenty of branching possibilities, this cruise is well worth boarding.

Retro Replay Score

7.9/10