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Grim Fandango Puzzle Document (1996) [pdf]

70 points kelseyfrog 1 hour ago 10 comments

vbernat 46 minutes ago | parent

Maybe a better URL could be: http://gameshelf.jmac.org/2008/11/grim-fandango-puzzle-desig...

fredrikholm 44 minutes ago | parent

I found Grim Fandango in a pile of discounted games as a tween in the 2000s. There was a cool skeleton in a suit on the front cover, so I bought it based on that.

Even though I didn't understand most references and sarcasm, few games have grabbed my attention as Grim Fandango did. The art work, the music, the writing. The whole game oozes of style that I've never seen replicated.

Even some 20+ years later I can almost recite most of Act I from heart. If you haven't played this game and like adventure games, this is one of the best.

Thank you for linking OP, this made my morning.

Gareth321 11 minutes ago | parent

I played the demo and it's been at the top of my "to play" list for decades. For one reason or another, I just never have yet. Majora's Mask is also at the top.

tialaramex 8 minutes ago | parent

I have never played through Grim Fandangoo in full, but in my peer group memes from this game permeated so thoroughly that when I see a pigeon I will too often end up shouting at it, "Run you pigeons! It's Robert Frost".

snickerer 24 minutes ago | parent

Is this a walkthrough or a game design document?

As a walkthrough, it is nice. But as the foundation for the game designers, it would be a fun because it is so lighthearted.

PetitPrince 15 minutes ago | parent

Looks like Tom Schafer style; I find him whimsical and funny in all of his communication. I don't think it's a stretch that this aspect extends to nom-public communications.

cyxxon 9 minutes ago | parent

Design document, from the page that links this pdf (http://gameshelf.jmac.org/2008/11/grim-fandango-puzzle-desig...):

"Tim Schafer at Double Fine has posted the puzzle design spec for his classic adventure game, Grim Fandango. It is that game's tenth anniversary; it was released on the Day of the Dead, 1998."

wodenokoto 7 minutes ago | parent

It's a game design document.

My guess is it is kinda like a first draft that some higher ups approve and budgets and then dialogue and game development and puzzle testing can begin.

N_Lens 19 minutes ago | parent

This game is iconic!

hnarayanan 14 minutes ago | parent

Yes. Literally one of the best.