Point & Click games: what are they? Universes to share with the family

A point-and-click game is a genre all its own. Adventure and puzzle games played with a mouse, or a few controller buttons, with no real-time pressure. These games demand calm, brain power, and patience, but they immerse you in rich universes, just like a good crime thriller. Most of the time, you’ll have time on your side.

Generally you play as a character and you must click on parts of the setting (the scenery is often gorgeous), or on other characters to interact. It’s about conducting investigations, questioning suspects, and combining objects to gather clues. But this kind of game isn’t always easy. You often have to locate objects, figure out how to use them, solve puzzles, and combine information.

Solitary-style games? On the contrary!

Unlike many action games, in a Point & Click you don’t progress by improving your playing style. You don’t get better just by training, you don’t receive bonuses, items or upgrades to move the story forward. Here only your brain matters. A brainy approach that can be sparked into excitement when played together. Personally we love playing it as a family. All gathered around the same screen, real moments of conviviality around a single story. Especially since younger players won’t solve the same puzzles as their parents. It’s fun to see everyone’s logic.

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Of course if you want to advance the story on your own, like in a good book, don’t deprive yourself. It will remind you of 'Choose Your Own Adventure' books.

Some people describe these games as cartoons or interactive films. This is quite apt as these games often share one trait: They are stunning and gripping!

Among the best Point & Click games, we recommend:

The Knights of Baphomet V: The Serpent’s Curse on Switch €49.90
A classic of the genre! It looks like a cartoon, the puzzles are always a bit 'crazy' but the duo of heroes is endearing.

Sherlock Holmes: The Devil’s Daughter on Blacknut, no commitment.
In a breathtaking Victorian-era London, the most famous detective reimagined should appeal to teens, with many mini-games.

Grim Fandango Remastered on PS4 (released 12/28/2018) €29.99
A game that has become a cult classic with the years. Made and remastered by LucasArts, we dive into the world of the Mexican Dia de los Muertos, a true gem of dark humor.

Agatha Christie: The ABC Murders on Blacknut, no commitment.
The main characters are drawn from the TV series with David Suchet portraying Hercule Poirot. The game, very faithful to the grande dame of crime, will make you want to dive back into her books.