Perhaps the game would be more playable if the controls were more efficient. The flaws are too apparent to make it truly engaging
Considering the fact the only time the Big Bads can actually take damage is when they’re dazed after they’re done with their attack pattern, these added theatrics only make these already rote encounters even more frustrating and drawn out. The bosses have been fine-tuned to give them a more extravagant feel, like the jack-in-the-box in Toy Land now chasing Mickey with spin attacks to go along with his pouncing. However, this new design has some unfortunate drawbacks. The effects and aesthetics are great, and really breathe new life into the stages, like the haunted books in The Library that shoot out of their shelves to knock Mickey off or provide a ledge for him to reach higher areas, or the aforementioned vines that creep and twist their way out of the ground, blocking his path to the exit.
Most of the levels feature areas that allow for 360-degree movement, like The Forest with its vine maze, the tweaked boss battles, and even the castle itself where Mickey is free to explore its corridors in between rooms.įrom a production viewpoint, this is all well and good. Other than the graphics and the addition of a narrator, the noticeable differences lie in the new 3D platforming elements.
Illusion unfortunately appears to be more concerned about looks than anything else All five of the stages from the original are present, and they play mostly the same way with Mickey roaming through the castle’s rooms of illusion, bouncing on ghosts, bats and other enemies, collecting gems, and finding items to use as projectiles, as he makes his way to battle the vile witch Mizrabel and save Minnie. The 3D visuals, while a little dated and dark, are nice to gaze upon.
DuckTales: Remastered was at least a serviceable update that captured the essence of the core game, but Illusion unfortunately appears to be more concerned about looks than anything else. This is a remake that should have been worthwhile, but unfortunately is a disappointment in many respects. The Sega Genesis/Mega Drive release of Illusion, while not as influential as the original DuckTales, is held in high regard by many, and those that heard about Sega Studios Australia’s reimagining were excited to see yet another one of their favorite childhood platformers get a makeover. While everyone was still celebrating the announcement of DuckTales: Remastered, the reveal of another modernization of a bit-era Disney classic flew by everyone’s radar: Castle of Illusion starring Mickey Mouse. Disney Castle of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse Review – Introduction More Gaming Nostalgia for the Masses