Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom

Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom is a hand-drawn action-adventure from Game Atelier. The young Jin travels through Monster World, discovers hidden places and must save the kingdom. The game world is connected: new forms and items open paths that remain unreachable on your first visit.

Released Dec 4, 2018 for PS4, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch. The PC version followed on Jul 25, 2019. Later releases included a native PS5 version, a technically adjusted Xbox Series version and an Apple version for iPhone and iPad.

The adventure was released for Nintendo Switch, PS4, Xbox One, PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S and iOS. The PS5 version supports native 4K display and up to 120 frames per second. The Xbox Series version also received a technically improved version.

The Apple version supports iPhone and iPad with touchscreen or controller controls. The same purchase can also be used on compatible Macs and Apple TV, without these being separate iPhone or iPad games.

Monster Boy combines fast combat and jumping sections with an open exploration structure. New abilities change which paths Jin can use. On earlier routes, new powers reveal further secrets, gear and access points. Progress comes as much from discovery as from defeating enemies.

On PC, Monster Boy requires at least a quad-core processor, 4 GB RAM, a graphics card with 2 GB video memory, DirectX 10 and 5 GB of free storage. The Steam page lists Windows 7, 8 or 10 as the historical game requirement. The current Steam version has newer OS requirements.

During the adventure, Jin gains six different forms. They differ in movement and combat, and some paths and puzzles require them. Switching forms is therefore a central part of progress, not just a visual change.

The regions of Monster World are connected. If you return later with new gear and more transformations, you can reach areas that were previously locked. The game thus focuses on the joy of discovery without pushing the action-packed sections and larger enemies into the background.

Many challenges come from using the right animal form or a specific piece of gear. A new item can open a section that was previously impassable. Hidden treasures and alternative routes reward you for exploring the environment carefully.

Jin fights ordinary enemies and larger bosses. His attacks and movement options change depending on his form. Gear and new abilities expand his repertoire, so not every encounter has to be solved with the same tactic.

Weapons and items support both combat and exploration. As you progress, Jin upgrades his gear and gains new ways to overcome obstacles. Story progress and opening up the game world are closely linked.

The characters and enemies are animated by hand, with great care. The soundtrack combines work from several Japanese composers, including Yuzo Koshiro, Motoi Sakuraba and Michiru Yamane. The audiovisual design blends the roots of classic Wonder Boy adventures with a distinct, modern presentation.

Monster Boy is designed for one player. The PC version offers German on-screen text and controller support, among other things. On iPhone and iPad, you can use either touch controls or compatible controllers. The exact language options vary in part by platform.