Guybrush now finds himself exploring the rest of the Jerkbait Islands, an island chain that includes Flotsam Island. The player has more freedom this time around, being able to explore more than one island, but trust me, it isn't much. Most of the games' action takes place on Spinner Cay which is inhabited by the intellectual Merfolk and their not-so-distinguishable genders. Watching Guybrush interact with some of the Merfolk provides for some hilarious moments. Along with them are both LeChuck and Elaine, who are looking for several mysterious artifacts that will help summon legendary creatures and aid them in their search for La Esponja Grande.
Just like the last chapter, this one features the same "search everywhere, collect items, and use them in the right location" gameplay. With that said, the game is actually shorter than the previous episode; Chapter 1 lasts roughly 4-5 hours, while this episode will last you only 1-2 hours. Granted, this time may be longer for those that find some of the puzzles difficult. Being an avid adventure fan myself, some of the puzzles seemed complex at first, but their solutions became obvious when you thought back to previous Monkey Island games.
In addition to the generally low difficulty level of puzzles, the lack of story also contributes to the title's brevity. The main chunk of the game is collecting the artifacts, but once that's done you'll find yourself at the conclusion of the story. These chapters are supposed to be bite-sized chunks, but this one seems more like a nibble.
However, I only complain about the length because the storytelling and dialogue Telltale comes up with is thoroughly enjoyable. Their continuing sense of humor will have you laughing multiple times, and the voice talent is just as entertaining. Once again, the feel of Monkey Island is properly captured and some old references are thrown in there to pay tribute.
The framerate problems and graphical glitches from the last chapter remain, and are still just as irritating. You'd hope that these problems would be fixed the second time around, but they're still there.
Nevertheless, Telltale has done it again by creating yet another adventurous episode and it's nice to see the story unfolding. While this episode is on the easy and short side, the next chapter should prove to be exciting and something completely different.. In the meantime, The Siege of Spinner Cay will tide you over, but it won't blow you away.
Pros:
Lastability: 6.0
This chapter is shorter than the first one, and once you beat it the replay value is minimal.
Final: 7.5
Even though this chapter is on the short side, its challenge and humor create an enjoyable experience the whole way through. Playing the first chapter helps with the story, but doing so isn't required to understand this one. It's not as good as the first episode, but it's still fun.Even though this chapter is on the short side, its challenge and humor create an enjoyable experience the whole way through. Playing the first chapter helps with the story, but doing so isn't required to understand this one. It's not as good as the first episode, but it's still fun.
