Simon the Sorcerer: Origins, Is Nostalgia Alone Enough?

In the world of adventure games where the number of titles is counted in the hundreds, very few franchises manage to maintain a long-lasting reputation and remain in the hearts of players for decades. Although newer generations do not remember this series, for veterans, this game most certainly awakens beautiful memories. Simon the Sorcerer is one of these rare examples. It is a game that, as early as 1993, showed that British humor and a satirical spin on fantasy clichés can create a recognizable and unforgettable world.

 Although at first glance it may look like Discworld, this series had already at that time successfully formed its own identity. There was hardly an Amiga or PC owned by a true adventure-game lover whose screen, whether in Norton Commander or Amiga Workbench, was not graced by this game. While many tried to follow the success of Monkey Island, Simon from the very beginning “told his own story.” 

By throwing into a blender dry British irony, unusual wizards, and a world that looked more like the colorful Discworld than the American adventures of that era, it created a magic that is remembered even today. This charm did not lie in technical innovation, but in the style and tone in which every situation could be turned into a humorous critique of fantasy and pop culture of both past and present times.

In a mood for something completely different yet still knee deep in nostalgia? Check out our Metroid Prime 4 review!

British Fantasy, Satire, and Humor in Simon the Sorcerer Origins

Two decades later, Smallthing Studios takes up the torch and attempts to bring Simon’s world back to the stage with Simon the Sorcerer: Origins. This is a game that leads us into the beginnings of Simon and his magical troubles, and it is not just a nostalgic treat. It is an invitation for old fans to return to the world they remember, while new players receive their first glimpse into a charming British fantasy that marked an entire chapter of adventure gaming.

As its very name suggests, Origins positions itself as a prequel, taking us back to the period immediately before the events of the original Simon. In 1993, young Simon and his family moved into a new house, something that our protagonist did not appreciate at all. His exploration of the new property soon grows into an encounter with a portal that leads him into a fantastic world filled with monsters, wizards, and magic in almost every imaginable form. It screams Narnia the moment you see the wardrobe, but believe me, every similarity is very intentional. Although Simon initially worries more about returning to a “normal” life, his adventure gradually becomes an all-encompassing journey through magical intrigues and unexpected dangers.

Through a satirical and often ironic tone, the game builds a setting in which wizards, instead of protecting the balance of magic, are preoccupied with the pursuit of their own pleasures. Simon’s encounter with the powerful mentor Sordid and the quest for the lost tomes of the First Wizard form the central narrative thread that stretches all the way to the end without major digressions, while along the way the game never forgets to pour out tons of jokes at the expense of contemporary pop culture and, of course, the most famous young wizard from Hogwarts. Harry Potter is the target almost every second, although Rincewind might be a better match

Fourth-Wall Jokes and Satirical Charm

 The humor is at times inconsistent and uneven in quality. While some scenes are brilliantly funny, others feel somewhat subdued, yet the overall atmosphere manages to remain cheerful without overdoing it. From time to time, Simon communicates with the player and breaks the “fourth wall,” adding a dose of self-aware humor that strikes right at the center without ruining the adventure.

As for the mechanics themselves, Origins remains faithful to the classic point-and-click formula that veterans are used to. The interface is improved according to modern principles, with indicators of important points, quick access to the inventory, a quest list, and, of course, the inevitable faster-walking option. In the package, we have everything contemporary players expect from a quality adventure title. The controls are such that they allow you to enjoy this colorful and goofy world without frustration. That means there is no brutal pixel hunting, which is often a defining characteristic of the genre.

The puzzles are the core of this game. They are varied, and there are enough of them that you don’t start complaining that the “moon logic syndrome” has returned. Simon gains the ability to use spells, fire, ice, and air, and in that way expands the mechanics and offers new methods of solving problems. The game manages to balance challenge with humor, but at times, the lack of clear hints can cause unnecessary frustration. 

Puzzle Difficulty and Player Guidance in Simon the Sorcerer Origins

Again, I must emphasize we do not fall into the domain of true “moon logic.” An example of this situation (mild spoilers ahead) is when Simon must use a book to decipher a spell, but the mechanic is so specific that the player can wander for hours before the solution becomes clear. If you get stuck, freely use a walkthrough it would be a shame to abandon the game because of pacing bottlenecks. 

A similar puzzle arises with magical hats that alter the properties of items in the inventory and enable the solution of certain problems. The issue is that while the idea is great, the initial tutorial for new players is a horror experience because it fails to emphasize their importance sufficiently. All that remains is beans or a horoscope and a hope for the best.

The atmosphere of the game is precisely what makes Origins so appealing. The world is filled with easter eggs, familiar characters, and locations from earlier Simon games, while the aesthetic style combines cartoon elements and pastel colors, giving the world an almost hand-painted charm. There are not many art styles like this today, which makes the game visually refreshing. And having something from our “Light Up” collection might be a nice visual refresh for your room as well, yes we are not above a shameless plus, but they are pretty awesome. 

The unusual artistic choice may not be to everyone’s taste, but it certainly contributes to the game’s image and the very thing by which it will most likely be remembered. The sound and voice acting are another definite plus. The return of Chris Barrie in the role of Simon gives a strong feeling as if there has not been such a long break at all, while the music and effects perform their role adequately. Nothing groundbreaking, but not bad either, certainly not something that would bury the game at its roots.

In Conclusion

Simon the Sorcerer: Origins may not redefine the genre or set new standards in adventure gaming, but it succeeds in delivering a fun and nostalgic experience both to old fans and to new players willing to peek into Simon’s world. Problems with occasionally unfairly difficult puzzles and an uneven tutorial do not diminish the essential charm and quality of the game. This title is, above all, a love letter to fans of the series, a preservation of the spirit of the original games with modern improvements that make the experience easier without disturbing the tone. Origins shows that even after more than two decades, the wild irony of this world can still win over players.

Smallthing Studios has succeeded in what matters most: it has preserved Simon’s soul. It has allowed old players to return to their favorite world, while opening the doors to new generations and to an adventure that does not recognize age or boundaries. If you love point-and-click adventures (whether you are old school or new school), this is a title you should not miss.

Game Rating:8.5

I rate the game 8.5/10 because it successfully preserves the soul and tone of the classic series, delivers strong puzzles and nostalgic humor, but occasionally suffers from unclear puzzle hints and uneven tutorial design.

Recommended Age Group:12+

I would recommend this game for players aged 12+, because the humor, puzzle complexity, reading-heavy dialogue, and abstract problem-solving require a certain level of comprehension and patience, while the themes are mild, non-violent, and appropriate for older children and teens.

Gemini-style Summary

Simon the Sorcerer: Origins is a nostalgic prequel that revives the spirit of the 1993 classic with witty British humor, charming fantasy settings, strong puzzle design, and a lovingly preserved tone — despite occasional frustration from unclear puzzle cues and an uneven tutorial, it stands out as a heartfelt, modern return to a beloved adventure-game world.