Monkey Island co-creator shuts down personal blog following “personal attacks” over art style

Ron Gilbert, co-creator of Monkey Island, has said he “won’t be posting anymore” about Return to Monkey Island

Another day, another glut of disgruntled gamers ruining things for everyone. Return to Monkey Island is a direct sequel to Monkey Island 2 that Ron Gilbert announced earlier this year. Many people are eagerly looking forward to the return of the point-and-click legend. However, some have taken umbridge with the new Monkey Island art style.

Gilbert has previously voiced his sadness about the negative reaction to the new art style. Now, it seems that these comments have only gotten worse. Gilbert made a final post and shut down his personal blog, going out saying “the joy of sharing has been driven from me”.

Others involved with the project have weighed in. Seen above is Dominic Armato, voice of Guybrush Threepwood, who made a longer thread about his thoughts on the new art style and its critics. Meanwhile project leader for The Curse of Monkey Island, Jonathan Ackley, gave his opinion in a couple tweets. One of which simply said “being criticized for changing the art style in a Monkey Island sequel is a time-honored tradition. Trust me. I should know”.

Many great movements in art and design were set in motion by dissatisfaction with the status quo. It is valid to dislike a piece of art. Saying ‘I don’t like it,’ does nothing to improve the situation. Helpful change happens by creating or supporting the art you’d like to see.

Jonathan Ackley, co-project leader for The Curse of Monkey Island

I’ve spoken with apes more polite than you!

A lot of the criticism claims that the new Monkey Island’s art style is “cheap” and “low-effort”, claims that are entirely speculative and don’t have much weight. For one, the art director for the game is Rex Crowle, whose previous works include LittleBigPlanet and Tearaway. Both of which have very distinct and recognisable artstyles. But also, the new style is a unique take on the Monkey Island world, and looks great to boot. As Armato puts it, “every game in this series has its own style, its own quirks, its own strengths *and* its own weaknesses”.

Of course, forming a vocal minority over any percieved slight is an unfortunately common occurrence among gamers. Even now, people are harrassing Santa Monica devs over the God of War Ragnarok release date. Either way, it’s best not to let these sorts of people ruin your enjoyment or excitement for a game. Judging by past experiences, though, they’ll likely dissipate once the game releases later this year.

What do you think of Monkey Island’s art style? Are you excited for the game’s release? Let us know your thoughts down in the comments below! Or, if you want more Monkey Island action, check out Alan’s playthrough of The Secret of Monkey Island! You can also join our Discord to chat with us about all things gaming and entertainment!