36 years later, The Secret of Monkey Island's combat is still unrivalled

A retrospective says The Secret of Monkey Island still feels fresh 36 years later thanks to its insult-based sword fighting.

Rather than reflex combat, fights play like puzzle-like banter exchanges that fit point-and-click adventure logic.

Ron Gilbert said the system was built to match pirate-movie style insults and the game’s comedic tone.

The design helped avoid dated action mechanics and remains a standout example of enduring adventure-game design.