By  Chelsea Johnson 

In 1992, Capcom released The Magical Quest Starring Mickey Mouse, adding to the list of games featuring the beloved character. As a developer known for its successful Disney licensed titles, Capcom faced the challenge of creating a game worthy of Mickey Mouse, the most famous animated character ever created.

The game begins with Mickey playing catch with Donald and Goofy when he accidentally loses the ball. In the process of finding it, Mickey discovers that Pluto has been captured by Emperor Pete. To rescue his dog, Mickey embarks on a magical quest.

The first level of the game sets the tone with its beautiful and imaginative design. Mickey traverses treetops high above the clouds, encountering tall vines inspired by Mickey and the Beanstalk. Players are introduced to unique gameplay mechanics, including jumping on enemies and using tomatoes as makeshift helicopters. The music throughout the game is also noteworthy, creating an immersive experience that captures the sense of adventure.

Mickey’s abilities evolve as the game progresses. He gains three different outfits – Sorcerer, Firefighter, and Climber – each providing new abilities and attacks. The level design cleverly incorporates the use of these outfits, with each one serving a specific purpose in combat and puzzle-solving. This system of progression and exploration adds depth to the gameplay and showcases Capcom’s creativity in incorporating elements from their other titles.

In addition to the outfits, Mickey can collect hidden items to increase his health and discover secret shops for upgrades. While there are opportunities for grinding and exploration, it is not necessary to fully enjoy the game.

Overall, The Magical Quest Starring Mickey Mouse serves as a blueprint for how to create a great licensed game. Capcom successfully captures the essence of Mickey Mouse and delivers an enjoyable and imaginative platformer that goes beyond the expectations of a typical licensed title.