Initial release date: August 27, 2024
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows
License: proprietary license
Genres: Platform game, Adventure game, Puzzle, Shooter game, Adventure
Developer: Purple Lamp
Publisher: THQ Nordic
Series: Epic Mickey series
Epic Mickey: Rebrushed goes a long way toward transforming this underappreciated gem into the game it was always meant to be, even if some of the original defects remain. Overall, Rebrushed is a delightfully upgraded journey into the strange side of Disney’s huge cartoon history.
I was a huge fan of the original Epic Mickey after receiving it as a Christmas gift the year it was released. I enjoyed the shockingly unusual premise and scary images, and while there were some issues with the gameplay, the advantages exceeded the negatives for me. When Epic Mickey: Rebrushed was revealed, I was ecstatic at the prospect of a polished remaster of the game. The new release generally meets its potential in this area, making it a wonderful pleasure for anyone who like Disney’s older cartoons.
The first important update is the camera, which can now be controlled with the right stick on your controller. Platforming and shooting paint and thinner with the triggers are lot easier with this new camera arrangement, and I found myself dying or receiving damage from unseen obstacles and foes considerably less than before. Being able to dash makes each location easier to navigate, which is a significant benefit.
Another significant improvement is the ability to play without motion controls. While they were innovative on the Nintendo Wii, I’m delighted I can now simply utilize analog sticks, buttons, and triggers to play Epic Mickey: Rebrushed, as it allows for a considerably more pleasant and less fiddly journey through the Wasteland. After completing the side-scrolling transition levels once, you can skip them the next time, saving you a lot of time and boredom.
“The entire Mickeyjunk Mountain stage, made entirely of damaged and freakily rotted Mickey Mouse merchandise, is a highlight and shows off the astounding creativity of the game’s entire concept.”
Painting and thinning the landscape and foes is still as distinctive and interesting as it was years ago, and the peaceful ways to all of the boss battles may be quite entertaining and imaginative. The levels are bright and interesting to explore, with subtle references to the classic films and Disney park sections on which they are based.
The odd and creepy reproductions of iconic Disney cartoon characters are still Epic Mickey: Rebrushed’s best feature. From resurrecting the endearing Oswald to disassembling robotic versions of Goofy and Donald, I’m still pleasantly shocked that Disney is so eager to embrace such twisted versions of famous characters. The entire Mickeyjunk Mountain stage, which is entirely made up of ruined and freakily rotten Mickey Mouse stuff, is a highlight that demonstrates the game’s overall originality.
I did notice that a few of issues I noticed with the original game are still present in Epic Mickey: Rebrushed. A big one stems from the morality system, which alternates from being highly plain and difficult to understand. I mistakenly took several “bad” activities and, due to the inability to save wherever you wish, was left with a less-than-perfect playthrough due to ambiguous instructions. I had hoped this would be rectified, as the (often convoluted) quest solutions changed my version of Mickey from what I planned.
I also wish the gorgeously rendered cutscenes had full voice acting for this rerelease, because hearing basic grunts as characters say entire lines is strange. I didn’t mind on the Wii, but given the number of positive adjustments made to Epic Mickey: Rebrushed, I had anticipated this would be a future inclusion.
Review Overview
Gameplay: 82%
Controls: 80%
Aesthetics: 85%
Content: 78%
Accessibility: 76%
Value: 80%
Overall: 80%
GOOD
Summary: “Epic Mickey: Rebrushed” reimagines the beloved series with improved gameplay and amazing visuals, providing a pleasant platforming experience. The inventive use of paint mechanics deepens the investigation, however some level designs may fall short. Overall, the controls are responsive, allowing players to easily navigate the bright landscape. While the game might use more material and accessibility features, it is an enjoyable adventure for aficionados of the franchise. Overall, “Epic Mickey: Rebrushed” is a fantastic addition that captures Disney’s magic and provides an entertaining tour through its fanciful settings.