Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed Review – A Nostalgic Remaster of a Classic Platformer
Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed is a remaster of the beloved cult classic 3D platformer, Disney Epic Mickey, originally released on the Wii over a decade ago. Led by Warren Spector and the team at Junction Studios, known for their work on Deus Ex, this remastered version brings back the magic of controlling Mickey Mouse armed with a magical paintbrush. While the game stays faithful to the original concept, with updated visuals, additional secrets, and new moves for Mickey, it also introduces controller support for a fresh experience.
The story of Rebrushed begins with Mickey accidentally causing chaos in a wizard’s world by spilling a bottle of thinner on a magical canvas. As a result, Mickey is pulled into the ruined painting and tasked with fixing the mess he created using the same magical brush. The game’s setting is a unique world filled with forgotten Disney characters and misfits, adding an intriguing twist to the classic platformer formula.
Gameplay in Rebrushed revolves around platforming challenges and using the magical brush to paint or thin surfaces. While Mickey’s movements may feel a bit clunky at times, the focus on the brush-waggling mechanics adds a layer of creativity to solving puzzles and navigating through the game’s levels. Each level is designed with interactive elements that require strategic thinking and exploration to progress, offering a mix of challenge and enjoyment for players.
Throughout Mickey’s journey, players will traverse through various themed environments, including sewers, theme parks, ruins, and pirate-infested islands. The game’s pace keeps players engaged with manageable puzzles and tasks to complete, such as collecting masks, finding switches, and rescuing characters. The simplicity of the gameplay mechanics allows for a relaxing and immersive experience, with plenty of optional secrets to discover along the way.
In addition to the 3D platforming levels, Rebrushed features 2D mini-levels that pay homage to classic Disney episodes. These mini-levels offer a change of pace and showcase the game’s charming art style and nostalgic appeal. While these segments mainly focus on basic platforming challenges, they serve as a fun diversion for Disney fans and newcomers alike.
The game introduces new powers and abilities as players progress, such as dropping distractions for enemies or slowing down time briefly. These powers add variety to gameplay but are limited in their application, serving specific purposes in certain scenarios. The combat mechanics involve painting or thinning enemies, with the choice between turning them friendly or erasing them entirely, adding a strategic element to encounters.
In hub spaces like Mean Street, players can engage in side quests, collect pins, and interact with NPCs to progress through the game. These activities offer additional content and rewards for players who enjoy exploring the game’s world and completing optional objectives. While some decisions may not have a significant impact on the overall story, they contribute to the game’s branching narrative and player choices.
Overall, Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed is a charming and inventive platformer that stays true to its roots while introducing new elements for modern audiences. While the game may not offer groundbreaking gameplay or narrative depth, its nostalgic appeal and creative mechanics make it a worthwhile experience for fans of the original and newcomers alike. Whether you’re a Disney enthusiast or a platforming aficionado, Rebrushed offers a delightful journey through a world of magic and creativity.
