Gameplay

Remind you of anything?

EMI is similar in gameplay to Grim Fandango, which isn't really a big surprise considering that they share the same game engine. The big difference here compared with past Monkey Island games is that instead of using the mouse to point and click Guybrush around, the game is played with the keyboard. I've heard a few minor grumbles about this but after a half-hour or so of gaming I can't imagine anyone having a problem with character navigation.

The kids love the Voodoo.

Spooky.

Inventory management is now also similar to Grim Fandango. You choose items from a 3D pop-up screen much like Tomb Raider or GF. In this screen items can be examined, or combined with other items to create new things. It is extremely easy and intuitive to use and is a fine addition to the series. You can also hold items in your hand and use them with objects in the scene or with other characters.

The game is played by navigating your way through the jungles, beaches, and towns of the Tri-Island area. Along the way you chat with other characters, pick up inventory items and solve puzzles. Pretty much your standard adventure game fare and nothing to new to fans of this series, or adventure gaming in general.

Got any giant peanuts?

Guybrush playes the futures game.

I just want someone to talk to

By wandering around and chatting with the locals, you'll start to piece together the story and your part in it. At certain points in the game, a pre-rendered cutscene will fill you in on the more complex story elements. These are always informative as well as entertaining, and usually pretty funny.

Most of your time is spent chatting with the denizens of the Tri-Island area, and this is also where the biggest laughs are. When talking to another character you are presented with a series of drop-down conversation choices. These choices prompt different, usually funny and often insulting responses from the NPC's. You'll find yourself trying every possible question and response just to hear as much of the wacky dialogue as you can.

Some familiar faces	A moonlight stroll through Melee Town
Arrrrr...the Scumm Bar!	Bullseye!