Licence to Squirrel: A Game of Wits and Whimsy

The world of video games is filled with homages, references, and Easter eggs that pay tribute to its rich history and diverse influences. Licence to Squirrel, a puzzle-platformer game developed by Playful Studios, is no exception. This charming game, released in 2011 for the Xbox 360 and later ported to other platforms, is a loving nod to classic games of the past while introducing innovative mechanics that set it apart.

A Brief History of Influence

To understand Licence to Squirrel’s nods to its influences, let’s take a step here back and examine the game’s development. Playful Studios, a relatively new studio at the time, consisted of industry veterans who had worked on several notable titles in the past, including Fable and The Incredible Sulk. The team aimed to create a game that would appeal to players looking for a more cerebral experience, one that combined the logical thinking required by puzzle games with the excitement of platforming.

Licence to Squirrel’s design was heavily influenced by classic LucasArts adventure games like Maniac Mansion and Monkey Island. These games, known for their witty writing, engaging characters, and clever puzzles, set the stage for Licence to Squirrel’s blend of humor, charm, and intellectual challenge. The game’s protagonist, a wise-cracking squirrel named Squeaky, was inspired by the likes of Guybrush Threepwood from Monkey Island.

Homages Abound

Upon starting Licence to Squirrel, players are greeted with a delightful cartoon-like world that pays homage to some of gaming’s most iconic franchises. The game’s art style and character designs bear a striking resemblance to those found in classic platformers like Donkey Kong Country and Crash Bandicoot. Even the game’s soundtrack features catchy tunes reminiscent of the likes of Banjo-Kazooie and Spyro the Dragon.

One of the most notable homages is the inclusion of various secret areas, each filled with Easter eggs that reference a range of games from the 8-bit era to modern-day titles. For example, players can discover a hidden area inspired by Pac-Man’s Maze mode or another featuring collectibles reminiscent of those found in classic arcade games like Q*bert.

Mechanics and Innovations

While Licence to Squirrel is undoubtedly an homage to its influences, it also introduces several innovative mechanics that set it apart from other puzzle-platformers. The game’s core gameplay revolves around navigating a maze-like world as Squeaky, who must use his cunning and problem-solving skills to overcome obstacles.

Players must manipulate the environment by using special abilities, such as shifting gravity or creating platforms, to reach hidden areas and collect tokens. These abilities are often linked to specific puzzles, which require players to think creatively about how to apply them in creative ways.

The game’s innovative mechanics also include a dynamic camera system that adjusts its perspective to help players navigate complex levels. This feature adds an extra layer of challenge to the game, as players must learn to adapt their thinking and problem-solving skills to the shifting camera angles.

A Love Letter to Gaming

Licence to Squirrel is a love letter to gaming’s rich history and diverse influences. The game’s developers clearly drew inspiration from some of the most iconic titles in the industry, incorporating these references into its world, characters, and gameplay mechanics.

The inclusion of Easter eggs and secret areas adds an extra layer of depth to the game, providing players with a sense of discovery and exploration that is reminiscent of classic games. By paying homage to its influences while introducing innovative mechanics, Licence to Squirrel has carved out a unique place for itself in the world of puzzle-platformers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Licence to Squirrel is a delightful game that showcases the art of homaging one’s influences. Playful Studios’ decision to create a game that nods to classic titles like Maniac Mansion and Monkey Island resulted in a charming experience that blends humor, wit, and intellectual challenge.

While it may not have received the widespread recognition it deserved upon its initial release, Licence to Squirrel remains an endearing tribute to gaming’s rich history. For those who enjoy puzzle-platformers with a dash of nostalgia and a pinch of creativity, Licence to Squirrel is certainly worth exploring.