Loom (TurboGrafx-CD) Playthrough
2Playthrough of Loom, Lucasfilm Games' 1992 fantasy-themed graphic adventure for the TurboGrafx-CD.
Loom for the TurboGrafx-CD is a port of Lucasfilm Games' unique point-and-click adventure that tells the story of Bobbin Threadbare, a young member of the Guild of Weavers, who embarks on a mystical journey to uncover the secrets of his heritage and restore balance to a world unraveling. The game stands apart from traditional adventure titles of its era by focusing on a musical interface rather than typical inventory-based puzzles, inviting players to solve challenges by learning and playing magical tunes, or “drafts,” on a distaff.
The TurboGrafx-CD version retains the visual style of the original EGA PC release, with detailed pixel art and fantastical backgrounds that convey a sense of otherworldly mystery. It also benefits from the CD format by including voice acting and an enhanced audio track, making the game's musical elements more impactful. The orchestrated music and spoken dialogue create an immersive atmosphere that complements the mythic tone of the narrative. While the voice acting is limited by the standards of later CD-based games, it adds charm and helps bring the world of Loom to life.
Gameplay revolves around listening to melodies and replicating them in specific situations to manipulate the environment, such as turning straw into gold, opening locked doors, or even altering time. This innovative mechanic replaces the need for traditional item collection and inventory use, creating a streamlined and elegant approach to storytelling. As Bobbin learns more powerful drafts, the puzzles become more complex but remain accessible, making the game approachable even for newcomers to the genre.
Loom’s storytelling is linear but deeply engaging, with a tone that is both melancholic and hopeful. The narrative is rich with allegory and fantasy, drawing players into a world of guilds and ancient magic. Despite its relatively short length, the game leaves a lasting impression due to its artistic vision and unconventional design. The TurboGrafx-CD version stands as a faithful and enhanced rendition of a classic, delivering a memorable experience through its unique blend of music, narrative, and minimalist gameplay.