Disney Illusion Island for Nintendo Switch – Video Game (NTSC)

Disney Illusion Island video game for Nintendo Switch

In the golden era of the Sega Genesis, Disney games like Castle of Illusion and World of Illusion provided an unparalleled platforming experience that rivaled even the fastest blue mammal. However, the Illusion series remained confined to that console generation, and while Disney Illusion Island may not officially be part of that beloved series, its impact can be felt throughout Dlala Studios’ latest release. Whether you consider it a true Illusion sequel or not, Disney Illusion Island undeniably stands as an exceptional new platformer featuring the iconic mouse, and we wholeheartedly recommend giving it a try.

Illusion Island takes us on a journey with Mickey and his friends as they arrive on the eponymous island for a picnic, only to discover that they have been deceived. The letters they received, supposedly from one another, were actually sent by a peculiar rabbit-like creature named Toku, who desperately requires the heroes’ assistance in retrieving three magical books that are vital to the island’s survival. Initially skeptical, the amiable group quickly agrees to aid the island’s inhabitants, embarking on an adventure into the treacherous realms of Monoth to reclaim the books.

The narrative exudes the charm of a cartoon episode, and this is further enhanced by a handful of animated sequences that could easily be mistaken for excerpts from The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse. Each of these cutscenes is fully voice-acted and strikes a perfect balance between action, humor, and fluidity, without overstaying its welcome. You are treated to just enough exposition to grasp new plot developments or discern the group’s next destination before being handed back the controller to resume exploration.

The core cast of four characters is as endearing and distinct as one would expect, and their interactions with other non-playable characters during brief dialogue sequences are spot-on. Donald, for instance, consistently assumes the role of the irritable sailor who is often at the mercy of the others, while Goofy remains as delightfully absent-minded as ever, with his thoughts perpetually fixated on food. Although the majority of your time in Illusion Island is dedicated to platforming, Dlala Studios has done an exceptional job of interspersing just enough character interaction to prevent monotony from setting in.

Disney Illusion Island Game Play

When it comes to gameplay, Illusion Island takes a departure from its retro predecessors by adopting a Metroidvania structure. Levels seamlessly connect, checkpoints are generously scattered, and once you select your character, you’re set free in a vast, interconnected map teeming with collectibles, hidden paths, and sections that require specific abilities to access, which you can acquire later on. While the upgrades you obtain may not be groundbreaking, offering standard abilities like double jumps or ground pounds, we were pleasantly surprised by how well the level design incorporates these expanded capabilities. As you venture further from the starting areas, you’ll encounter more intricate sections that demand advanced techniques. Although the difficulty never reaches challenging levels, this game continually improves the more you progress.

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It’s worth noting that despite the expansive map and Metroidvania structure, Illusion Island remains firmly rooted in its platforming roots. Combat is virtually nonexistent, even during boss fights, which are essentially more demanding platforming challenges. The upgrades you acquire primarily enhance your movement abilities. Each playable character possesses the same moveset, with their unique tool serving a specific purpose, such as using a fork or a toilet plunger to cling to walls. However, the upgrades for all four characters function identically. So, what’s the incentive to explore? Instead of discovering missile expansions or new Charms, the collectibles in this game consist of enjoyable cosmetic trophies that contribute to its overall charm.

Join Mickey and Friends on a brand-new adventure in Disney Illusion Island

Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy embark on a new adventure to find three magical books and save the mysterious island of Monoth. You’ll meet unusual allies and dangerous foes as you play solo or with up to three friends as the Fab Four in local co-op*. Work together as you run, jump, swim, and swing your way to victory! Experience a brand-new Mickey & Friends adventure with hand-drawn animation, a fully orchestrated original score, and featuring performances from the authentic voice talents.