A few hours in, one of the game’s screens shows a signpost featuring both Monkey Island and Arstotzka from Papers, Please, a cheeky gag pinning these classics as key influences. Two such distinct styles shouldn’t work so well together, but they really do. Brilliantly.
Lil’ Guardsman is set in the Sprawl, a gorgeously drawn fantasy city brimming with warmth, heart and humour. You play as Lil, the 12-year-old daughter of guardsman Hamish, who puts her in charge of city admissions so he can bunk off to the tavern. Tch.
At the guardshed [1], Lil must use various tools to ensure the colourful characters visiting the city are worthy of entry. These include an x-ray, metal detector, decoder ring and even a truth spray, and she can also phone the three city advisors for help as she interrogates each visitor. You even take ownership of a prototype time travelling device, allowing you to repeat a previous decision and revise your choices [2] for a better outcome, removing certain frustrations.
The true genius of Lil’ Guardsman shines as the game evolves over 12 levels, right up to the eventual breakout of war [3], all without losing its levity and sincerity. Scenarios never outstay their welcome, surprises abound at every turn, and the sheer volume of story-influencing choices make each playthrough unique. It’ll put a smile on your face, make you think and you won’t want to say goodbye to these magnificent characters.
