Sam & Max: This Time It's Virtual

The gameplay has been criticized for its rough controls, inconsistent mechanics, and a lack of engaging content, often feeling like a tech demo rather than a polished experience. While some mechanics, like climbing, show potential, many minigames are either overly simplistic or frustratingly broken, leading to a sense of emptiness and dissatisfaction. Overall, the combination of glitchy interactions and recycled mechanics detracts from the enjoyment, making it hard to recommend to anyone outside of dedicated fans of the series.

The humor in the game is frequently praised for its witty dialogue and charm, reminiscent of previous entries in the franchise, though some players feel it lacks the same depth and interaction due to the new player character dynamic. While the quips from Sam and Max are often hilarious, the repetitive nature of the humor and the game's overall mechanics detract from the experience, leading to mixed feelings about its effectiveness. Overall, the writing remains a highlight, but many believe it cannot fully compensate for the game's shortcomings.

The graphics of the game receive mixed reviews, with some praising the sharp art style and character designs that stay true to the Sam & Max aesthetic, while others note inconsistencies in resolution between environments and characters. Although there are graphical glitches and a lack of charm compared to previous titles, the overall visuals are considered above average, especially in the context of VR. Players appreciate the good animation and sound, but emphasize that gameplay quality ultimately outweighs graphical concerns.

The game exhibits notable stability issues, particularly in certain segments like bomb defusing and obstacle courses, where glitches can hinder gameplay. While many players report encountering bugs, most agree that they are not game-breaking and can often be worked around. Overall, the game remains playable, though some sections may feel nearly unplayable due to these stability concerns.

Users report significant issues with optimization, particularly with Steam Index controls, which may be better suited for other VR sets. Many experience major stuttering and find that grab mechanics are not fully optimized, leading to a frustrating gameplay experience.

The music in the game is generally praised for its quality and integration with the visuals and voice acting, enhancing the overall experience of interacting with the Sam & Max universe. However, some players expressed disappointment over the absence of nostalgic tracks, particularly in specific locations like the convenience store.

Players note that the presence of numerous achievements contributes to the game's replayability, encouraging them to revisit the game to unlock all content.