Travel the kingdom as Jester with his best friend Sok to improvise theatre shows and perform on stages far and wide. Sing your hearts out, crack jokes and impress audiences to become the stars of the famous Royal Theatrical Spectacle!
Jester and his best friend Sok have a plan. A modest one: steal the Royal Diamond, that marvel exhibited at the castle. To reach it, they must travel the kingdom, improvise theatre troupes, sing, perform comedy, and wring laughter and applause from audiences everywhere. It is in this absurd and delightful premise that Once Upon a Jester, developed by Dutch studio Bonte Avond and published by Crunching Koalas, builds one of the most charming narrative experiences of recent years.
The heart of the game is theatrical improvisation: on stage, you choose Jester's lines and actions in real time, trying to satisfy the whims and expectations of each town's audience. Between shows, you travel the kingdom, meet colourful characters and advance towards your goal with the quiet confidence of two friends who believe in their plan.
We loved: The writing and dialogues. Bonte Avond is made up of four musicians, and it shows in both the music and the text. Lines are funny, situations are absurdly coherent, humour is clever without condescension. You laugh often and sincerely.
We liked: The artistic and musical direction. Every performance is accompanied by original songs performed in real time. Artworks are expressive and consistent, and the whole exudes the atmosphere of a uniquely animated illustrated tale.
Our highlight: The relationship between Jester and Sok. Behind the humour and failing plans, a genuine story of friendship is built. Once Upon a Jester manages to be sincerely moving without ever losing its light touch.
Our tip to help you: Observe the audience before choosing your lines. Each spectator has visible preferences and reactions: satisfying them maximises your score and unlocks bonuses. Learn to read the room like a true court jester.
Who is this game for?
Once Upon a Jester is aimed at players aged 10 and over, particularly fans of narrative stories, musical comedy, and games that prioritise atmosphere and story over pure gameplay. A perfect experience for family evenings or anyone seeking something different, warm and memorable. At around 3 hours, it is short but perfectly paced.
