Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about adventure games of the 2000s.
What is this encyclopedia and what does Part 1 cover?
It is a fan-created, unofficial reference guide dedicated to adventure games released between 2000 and 2009. Part 1 focuses on the early-to-mid portion of that decade, centering on point-and-click and narrative-puzzle titles.
What counts as an 'adventure game' in this context?
The encyclopedia includes point-and-click puzzle games, visual novels, and story-driven interactive titles where dialogue, exploration, and logic puzzles take priority over combat or reflex-based gameplay.
Which studios are most represented in Part 1?
LucasArts dominates the early entries, while Telltale Games, Sierra, and smaller indie studios appear throughout the decade. European developers such as Daedalic and Big Fish Games also receive coverage.
Where should a complete newcomer begin?
Starting with Grim Fandango (2000) or Sam & Max: Season One (2007) gives a strong feel for the era's humor and puzzle design without requiring prior experience. The encyclopedia's 'Starter Path' section lists a suggested reading and playing order.
What is the single most significant industry event covered?
LucasArts' 2004 decision to dissolve its adventure-game development teams is treated as the pivotal moment that reshaped the genre, pushing many of its designers toward Telltale and independent studios.
Who are the most frequently referenced characters?
Recurring figures include Sam & Max, Manuel Calavera from Grim Fandango, and the cast of Telltale's early episodic titles. Each character gets a profile box with creator credits and first-appearance details.
Which platforms does Part 1 address?
The primary focus is PC (Windows) releases, with notes on Mac, PlayStation 2, Xbox, and Game Boy Advance ports where they exist. Mobile and browser-based titles are mentioned only when they constituted a primary release.
How is the material organized?
Entries are arranged chronologically by release year, with sub-sections grouped by studio. Cross-reference tags link characters, voice actors, and composers across titles so readers can trace creative lineages.
Is this encyclopedia affiliated with any of the studios mentioned?
No. It is entirely a fan project, and no content is licensed or endorsed by LucasArts, Telltale, Sierra, or any other company referenced. All summaries and commentary are written by volunteer contributors.
What distinguishes Part 1 from later parts?
Part 1 concentrates on titles from roughly 2000 through 2005, the period when traditional point-and-click adventure games were still the genre's mainstream form. Subsequent parts are expected to cover the episodic and indie renaissance of the latter half of the decade.