Funny story: I started drafting this list over 8 years ago, but for various reasons—from procrastination, to getting sidetracked, to even forgetting about it—I never managed to complete it. Until now!
Howdy-doo Poptropicanos!🤟 LJ here, and today I’m thrilled to present my selection of the top 10 soundtracks from Poptropica! Or shall I say “pop” 10? All of these amazing tracks were composed by the talented Jeff Heim, who was the musical genius behind Poptropica for years—hats off to him!
It was honestly quite challenging to compile this list, especially with so many outstanding soundtracks in the game. Trust me, narrowing it down to just 10 was no easy feat. Anyway, let’s jump right in and enjoy some wonderful music!
#10) Monster Carnival Main Theme
This piece of music perfectly encapsulates the essence of the words “Monster” and “Carnival.” The fusion of creepy and whimsical elements is executed perfectly. I once knew how to play this tune on the keyboard after being inspired by a fellow Poptropican’s piano rendition, but I have since forgotten, unfortunately. 😅
#9) Poptropolis Main Theme
This track is sure to energize anyone for an intense tribal competition! 💪 I’m glad this one was chosen as the primary theme for Poptropolis Games compared to the other tracks that were featured on the island (though they’re great in their own right too!). I really like its triumphant, glorious, and powerful tone. I can totally imagine this one echoing at the Olympics in real life.
Balloon Boy: No, you won’t recognize anybody in one of these hot-air balloons.
#8) A Free Poptropican
This represents the first entry (among several on this list) that embodies the distinctive “Poptropica sound” in my ears. I can’t exactly describe what that sound is, but all I know is that I feel an immediate urge to hop aboard my blimp and set off on a grand adventure just by listening to this one! That’s what Poptropica is all about! 😀
#7) Genie Dance
This track can still be heard today in the free desktop version of the game on Jade Scarab Island (originally heard in the 3rd episode of Arabian Nights Island). Its repetitive quality is what I find makes it so catchy and unforgettable that I had to put it on this list. Plus, it stands out due to its prevalent middle eastern sound. The way the song builds in speed with each reiteration almost makes me want to dance. It’s an awesome one indeed. 🙌
In Spired: I can see my house from here.
#6) Action Adventure
This track couldn’t be more appropriately titled, as it reflects the splendor of an epic poem or a fantasy action movie. 😁 My favorite part starts at the 49-second mark, where a sound similar to a piccolo emerges, really elevating the overall impact of this one for me.
#5) Night Theme
Although Night Theme may not have the same level of grandeur as some of the other tracks on this list, it speaks to my soul which I believe is what truly matters. This piece makes me feel as if I were drifting in the cosmos, meditating among a sparkle of fireflies, and flowing with the current of a delicate stream all at once. Does that make any sense? 😝 I love how dreamy, yet mysterious this one sounds. 😌
Amore: When the moon hits your eye like a big camel’s eye.
#4) Super Power
This is another one that showcases the quintessential “Poptropica sound”. I first heard it in a 2016 trailer for the game, and I was immediately captivated, thinking, “This sounds really cool!”. 😱 I feel like this one is quite complex and elaborate featuring a variety of upbeat and melodious components. “Super Power” serves as a strong testament to Jeff’s talent in music composition.
#3) Mythology Main Theme
The main theme of Mythology brings back a wave of nostalgia. In 2016, it was certainly my favorite, and I can clearly see why. Mythology Island has always ranked among my top islands in Poptropica, and I distinctly remember hearing this track during every playthrough, which may contribute to a slight bias. 😉 Nevertheless, the sounds of the flute, horns, and lyre transport me to the realm of ancient Greece which is well inspired.
Olympus has Risen: We’ve always had our heads in the clouds.
#2) Mega Fighting Bots
This piece is nothing less than exceptional! It carries an epic quality that mirrors the awesomeness of the Mega Fighting Bots in Poptropica. I think the energetic and dramatic tones are ideally suited for a boss battle. I can confidently say that this is my favorite boss battle theme and a strong second place overall. (Shoutout to their battle intro theme! That one is great as well.) 🤩
#1) Poptropica Overture
Poptropica Overture is undoubtedly the hallmark track of Poptropica. I mean, it’s the very tune that everybody encountered while both logging in and exploring Home Island at one point in time. Jeff truly outdid himself with this piece, as it is one of the finest compositions I’ve ever heard. 😍 I’m enamored with the tune, the atmosphere, and pretty much every other aspect of it. Each moment of this ethereal, melancholic melody is heaven to my ears, and the outro is especially beautiful. Not going to lie; I’ve felt a surge of emotions while listening to this one, as it resonates like an echo, reminding me of all of the cherished moments I’ve enjoyed within the Poptropica community and during my time playing the game. 🥹 The slowed + reverb version on YouTube is just as enchanting and quite addictive too. Let’s give a well-deserved round of applause for Poptropica Overture! 👏
One Stop Shop: Say hello to our bundle of joy.
I really went in, didn’t I? Well, my love for Poptropica can hardly be put into words and the soundtracks are no different. Big thanks to you if you made it all the way through this post. See you guys next time. Pop on! 🍀
Howdy doodly Poptropicanos, it’s LJ! 🤟 Despite the seemingly grim future of Poptropica, we hold dear the memories of its earlier days. Today, I invite you to travel back in time with me as I reveal my Pop 5ranking of the islands from 2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣4️⃣!
The year 2014 marked the emergence of episodic islands, with islands being unveiled in parts referred to as episodes, which became available at intervals of several weeks or months. Apart from Monster Carnival, the episodic island era consisted of Survival, Mission Atlantis, PoptropiCon, and Arabian Nights.
The concluding episodes of PoptropiCon and Arabian Nights were launched in 2015. Nevertheless, I will include every episode in my assessment of the islands for the sake of the ranking process. These islands as a whole are still regarded as 2014 releases on the Poptropica Wiki, given that they made their debut during that year.
Before we go any further, I’d like to warn you that many spoilers are present ahead. (Most of these are still playable for free if you want to give them a go!) The links to the synopses and any past reviews of these islands will be included throughout the commentary for more understanding if you need it. 🤓
#5. Mission Atlantis Island 🦈
Mission Atlantis was released on April 17 for members and May 15 for all players.
Although certain animations were visually appealing (particularly the visions and the concluding cut scene in episode three), they aren’t enough to boost this island’s standing on the list. The story pretty much failed to engage me at any given moment. The experience in Mission Atlantis is mostly solitary, and while this approach can be effective in certain islands, such as Steamworks Island, it didn’t resonate with me here. There was only a slight spark of interest for me at the end of episode two but as I progressed into episode three, I found myself feeling somewhat disinterested and bored once again. The “hockey game” segment where we’re supposed to maneuver the power disks felt more tedious and redundant rather than challenging. 😒
Had I not been a completionist, I likely would have abandoned this one during the second episode and never returned to finish it. I realize that my critique may seem overly critical, but this island ranks among my least favorites in general, and I suspect many other Poptropicans would share this opinion. 😬 (Check out this older review from another PHB author with a differing perspective!) Positioned at the 4th spot, we have…
#4. PoptropiCon Island 🗯️
PoptropiCon marked the 41st island to Poptropica, with its release for members occurring on August 28 and for everyone else on September 18.
I regret having to rank this island so low on the list, but the fierce competition this year forces me to do so. (2014 was truly the last year with more hits than misses in my opinion.) At the time of its initial release, I didn’t have a particular interest in PoptropiCon. I didn’t have any aversion to it; rather, I just simply didn’t give it much consideration. It was many years later that I came to genuinely appreciate it. 🙂
I find nearly every aspect of this island appealing, particularly the convention setting both within and outside the convention center. Although I’m typically not fond of using the costumizer on an island (like in Time Tangled Island) I believe it was effectively employed in this instance. It was contextually relevant, and the experience of scouring around for costume parts to embody different characters was actually quite enjoyable. 👍
Let’s talk about the fun factor! Playing The Mighty Action Force card game in episode 2 and then using all their superpowers in the final episode was such a blast. And those jaw-dropping cut scenes in the last episode? I can’t forget the moment you enter Omegon’s dimension and transform into Alphaon. There’s just so much greatness packed into this island’s gameplay! 🤩 (While we don’t have a full review for PoptropicCon, the last episode was reviewed by a past author.)
PoptropiCon has introduced us to amazing characters like The Mighty Action Force and Omegon (who took over the PHB in 2015) who’ve all become iconic. I adore their designs, along with the hench-bots. It’s amusing that for a convention called Poptropi”Con,” there are so few cons to mention! Alright, let’s tackle number 3.
#3. Survival Island 🫎
The initial introduction of Survival Ep. 1 occurred on March 20 for members, followed by its release to everyone on April 17. The 5th and final episode was made available to members on September 11, with a subsequent release for all players a few weeks later in early October.
The episodic releases of this island extended over the longest duration throughout the year, thus it is undebatable that Survival Island represents a significant moment of 2014. (Check out the series of mini reviews we call PHB Quickies of episodes 1-4!)
I believe that the first two episodes somehow could’ve been effectively combined into a single cohesive episode since the gameplay lacks any eventful excitement and sort of drags out. The isolation in the first few episodes is somewhat akin to that of Mission Atlantis; however, I have a greater appreciation for the setting in Survival. It’s quite enjoyable to engage in roleplaying as if one were truly part of the scenario, even if the thrill is absent at first.
Each episode ends with a strong cliffhanger that entices players to proceed to the next chapter. The island’s appeal significantly increases upon entering MVB’s cabin and trying to escape in episode four and continues onto episode 5 as we’re being hunted down. As you navigate the challenges of the wilderness in the early stages, the final episode completely redefines the concept of “survival”. The climax was climaxing for sure. 😵💫
Now you might be curious as to why this island is positioned higher than PoptropiCon based on my evaluations. To be candid, the distinction comes down to personal preference rather than actual technical excellence. 😅 There also is an element of bias at play; as previously mentioned, I didn’t play PoptropiCon extensively when I was younger. I completed it only once in its entirety back then, while I have revisited Survival on numerous occasions throughout the years. Because of that, it holds a greater sense of nostalgia for me. 😊 The competition for the 4th and 3rd place rankings was quite competitive though.
Now, let us proceed to the next island on our list, shall we?
#2. Arabian Nights Island 🕌
Arabian Nights first appeared on the map for members on October 2 and then for all players on October 23. I must admit that my younger self felt somewhat salty when this island was initially launched, as I was disappointed for not taking part in the Create Your Dream Island Contest myself. 😅 However, I am more than pleased that this submission emerged as the winner!
In terms of gameplay, Arabian Nights may not be of the highest caliber, but still this island effectively fulfills its purpose. I have always found trading in Poptropica to be enjoyable, and I appreciated its prominence in most of the episodes. Exploring the underground caves of the thieves in episode two and going through the secret door in the royal palace in episode three were thrilling and reminiscent of an epic movie. I also valued elements such as the “Donkey Kong” segment, the utilization of the magic sand bomb, and the experience of soaring on the magic carpet.
Arabian Nights features an exceptional storyline; it’s probably one of the best in the entire game actually. The characters, including Scheherazade, the princess and leader of the thieves, Samhal the genie, and Brutus the henchman contribute to a great ensemble, each possessing their own character development, whether significant or minor. The touching moment shared between Scheherazade and her father at the end was executed beautifully. It really highlighted the profoundly negative impact of greed on both oneself and those in one’s vicinity, which I believe is the main theme the creators were trying to drive home. They delivered with incredible finesse here. 👏
If that wasn’t all enough, I feel that I must draw attention to the extraordinary atmosphere that this island offers. I’m obsessed. 😍 The beautiful Arabian architecture and traditional clothing, together with the mesmerizing soundtrack (created by Jeff Heim), immerse me in the rich culture and make me feel pure bliss. (Here’s a review from right after the final installment came out by Slanted Fish & Slippery Raptor who share my sentiments.)
I’m really curious about how the final outcome compared to Sarah/Magic Eagle’s initial entry. Given that the contest was exclusively for participants aged 8 to 12, I find myself intrigued by the capabilities of such a young child, and I hope that doesn’t come off as patronizing. I’m simply amazed.
#1. Monster Carnival Island 🎡
The highly anticipated Monster Carnival Island officially launched on February 21 for members, followed by its release to all players on March 20. This had the fandom shook to its core! (Read about the mystery revolving around Monster Carnival Island.)
With the exception of the ending, which I’ll address later, I genuinely admire nearly every feature of this island, much like my appreciation for PoptropiCon and Arabian Nights.
Ringmaster Raven is probably my favorite villain ever, which is saying a lot given the plethora of remarkable villains in Poptropica. The soundtrack also ranks highly among my favorites, particularly the piece known as Monster Carnival Main Theme by Jeff Heim. The composition possesses a unique blend of jubilance and eeriness, forming a compelling juxtaposition. 😁 As a matter of fact, I think it effectively captures the essence of the island hinting at a darker reality lurking beneath the lively and colorful festivities of the carnival. 😈
Monster Carnival is another island that notably excels in its storytelling compared to many others. The gradual transition of the setting from day to dusk and then to night during the gameplay is a nice touch in foreshadowing the terror of what’s to come, and the frightening transformation of the carnival workers into monsters as night descends is both unsettling and strangely satisfying. It gets even better with the revelation of Raven’s backstory through a series of newspapers which kind of make you feel pity and compassion for him. 🥺
Now for the ending…The original ending left many individuals within the community feeling displeased, and I find myself in agreement. It’s important to recognize that Ringmaster Raven’s attempt to hypnotize the townsfolk into slavery was indeed a serious wrongdoing, for which there is no valid justification that I can think of. Yet, the notion of reducing this man—who has suffered from bullying, dehumanization, and social rejection throughout his existence—to a state where he believes he is a chicken, thereby subjecting him to a life of embarrassment as a “funny” circus attraction, strikes me as equally distasteful. 🤨 The ending was revised in 2022 with the re-release of Monster Carnival on Steam. Some individuals including myself still find the current narrative to be unfulfilling.
Again, while I do not condone Raven’s actions, my ideal resolution would involve him receiving comprehensive counseling in a facility designed to provide a safe and supportive environment where he is treated with dignity and respect during the process. Ya know, like a human…(or Poptropican in this case?) I mean, it’s possible these events could’ve happened off-screen at Erewhon Prison after the conclusion of the island’s events, but that we’ll never know. 🫠
Additionally, I believe that everyone in the town who played a role in his suffering should offer him a direct apology—something I’m confident he would reciprocate. I sincerely wish that Raven could have experienced a redemption arc; if not on the island, then perhaps through a mini-quest or at least a statement from the creators. 😔 Something about Raven really touches me.
“Ringmaster Raven” by ray-of-flightVirgo Raven (Pop Astrology Part 6) by Criaha“Ringmaster Raven” by ThatBlack FoxCanBark“10 Points to Ravenclaw” by ArtisticAsianBunny“The Show Must Go On” by MagicKidIsArtsyBeautiful art from the community that Ringmaster Raven has inspired over the years… There is so much more greatness where these came form
So, after a six-year anticipation, Monster Carnival Island undoubtedly fulfilled my expectations, despite its flaws. (A reader of ours once shared her thoughts on this island that somewhat resemble mine. 😉) I strongly suspect that the island we ultimately received is far more impressive than it would’ve been had it come to fruition in 2008 as intended.
Well, that concludes my ranking of these islands that are now pretty much a decade old. It’s incredible to think about how much time has flown by. What are your thoughts on my list and what is your ranking of the Poptropica islands of 2014? I encourage y’all to sound off in the comments! Thanks for reading everybody. Props if you made it to the end. I know this was a super long post. 🫣 Until next time, pop on! 🍀
Yoohoo Poptropicans, it’s LJ here. Today I want to turn the clocks back 10 years and revisit the islands of 2013 with a ranking to celebrate the anniversary. I can’t believe it’s been an entire decade!
I have an inkling my list will differ from most people’s opinions so I’m very excited to get into it and start discussing with you all. Let’s pop in.
(Disclaimer: This is not a full review for each island, so each analysis will be kept brief.Links to the synopses will be included throughout the commentary if you need more context.)
#5: Mocktropica Island 🖥️
Mocktropica Island was released for all players in January of 2014, but was first available to members on December 19, 2013, so it’s technically a 2013 and a 2014 island. With that said, I’ll be including Mocktropica in this list since 2014 has plenty of islands to rank as it is.
Now, don’t get me wrong ⎯ Mocktropica is a pretty neat island. The concept is wicked cool,and it was executed nicely in my opinion. I’m one to appreciate a good meta reference here and there, so without surprise, an island filled with them at every turn totally appealed to me. Initially, I found this island to be pretty cool and very funny. It’s not so bizarre like Timmy Failure Island, but I think it’s just zany enough to appeal to most players of all ages.
The reason I rank it last on my list, however, is because I’m pretty sure this is the island I’ve played the least from this year, so I don’t remember it as much as the other ones at this point. Plus, the main joke of the island ⎯ “Poptropica is under new management, and it’s falling apart at the seams!” ⎯ so heavily resonates with the current state of the game today, and it just hits too hard. It’s no longer tongue-in-cheek humor and retrospectively thinking, it just feels like a sad foreshadowing of what was to come.
#4: Night Watch Island 🛍️
Night Watch Island was the first official island released in 2013, and it was first available to members on February 21. It was released for everyone the next month on March 14.
I’ll be honest, Night Watch was never the most entertaining island (gameplay wise) for me back then. The back and forth travelling felt a little too redundant in this island specifically, and with being released right after Zomberry, this one didn’t feel as epic. The things I do like about the island, though, are enough to redeem it and to not put it in last place.
It was pretty cool having a job in this one, and although you’re pretty much in solitude almost the entire time, it doesn’t feel lonely. I think that has something to do with all of the signs, toys, pets, robot dummies etc. all around you in the mall. I also can’t forget to mention little Eddie, the coral snake. Somehow, he steals the show for me, and I think he’s hilarious.
Also, I just really like shopping and malls in general, and I’m practically obsessed with Scooby-Doo ⎯ so I greatly appreciated the reference at the end when the culprit says “And I would have gotten away with it if it weren’t for this meddling security guard!” Speaking of references, there are loads of them throughout Nightwatch to other Poptropica islands & characters (similar to Mocktropica), but also to real life stores & movies as well! What the island doesn’t bring in gameplay it definitely brings in super fun reference hunting.
#3: Back Lot Island 🎬
Back Lot Island came out for members on April 4, 2013 and for non-members later in the month on April 25, 2013.
This island was fantastic to me since I’ve always been interested in movie & television magic. Every time I played it as a kid, I really felt like I was making a movie. There is a bit of that back and forth travelling like I mentioned in Night Watch, but I don’t think it’s as bad in this island. To be honest, I actually enjoyed driving the go cart in the Grand Majestic Studios lot (in aerial view) and running up & down Sunset Blvd. As fun as a mall can be, I think the scenery in this island is even more captivating.
It was also very satisfying seeing all of your work come together when the movie plays in the theater at the end ⎯ although it didn’t make much sense to me. 😂 On top of all that, the paparazzi photographing me like I was a celebrity when I first landed on the island gave me a huge ego boost. Just kidding!
#2: Zomberry Island 🧟
Zomberry Island was first released on December 19, 2012 for members but released for everyone a month later on January 10, 2013. Because 2012 is the year with the most islands to rank already, I’ll be including it in the 2013 list instead ⎯ kind of like I did with Mocktropica.
I recognize that I may be a little biased with this one, but I don’t think it takes away from the greatness that this island is. Zomberry is the first island I played with my little cousins when I introduced them to the game. It was a proud moment. I’ve lost count of the number of times I played through this apocalyptic adventure (and watched the trailer before its release) so it’s super nostalgic.
The atmosphere is dark and chilling, but the characters are quite colorful despite that. This is a nice contrast that makes for a nice setting. Samuel Brains’ look is a whole vibe and DJ Saturday Night is just as about iconic as Shark Boy Guy in my opinion. Abe may not be as quirky and lively as the others, but he’s certainly memorable, nonetheless.
For me, Zomberry definitely deserves the silver. In fact, it was almost first but that honor went to… 🥁🥁🥁
#1: Virus Hunter Island 🧬
Virus Hunter Island was released for members on August 29, 2013, and on September 26, 2013 for everybody else.
I’ll admit, the environment isn’t exactly the cure for queasiness (and I imagine anybody with anatomophobia ⎯ or anything similar ⎯ would really not like this one), but it is very unique; I’ll give it that. It’s almost otherworldly even with-it taking place inside a body and all.
Virus Hunter was notorious for many years to be filled with irritating glitches. I remember experiencing some myself, but luckily it wasn’t anything more than any other island, so for that I feel pretty lucky. In addition to the glitches, I think the island was pretty long and challenging as it is; I’m sure a lot of us got stressed out at the time. You’re probably even wondering why this is my top pick of the year.
Well, now that we see what the game has come to ⎯ with islands that feel more suited towards kids who are still learning their shapes and colors ⎯ that stress is sorely missed. I really want new challenging islands like this again! This one was overall very fun, adventurous, and exciting to me. A very grand experience I must say.
That concludes my ranking of these islands that are now ten years old. 🥺 It was bittersweet writing this one, I won’t lie. I’m the type of person who often gets emotional about the past and Poptropica is no exception. Anyway, what is YOUR ranking of the Poptropica islands of 2013? Please share your lists with me! Commentary or no commentary, I’d love to read them.
Yoohoo Poptropicans, long time no speak. Yes, it’s true – LJ hath returned! I feel like I’ve been gone so long that I don’t even know how to write anymore, but bear with me. ☠️
How many islands have been released in the last half year? None? Okay, so I haven’t missed anything. Speaking of islands, lately I’ve been reminiscing back to when they were actually good, ahem ahem. So today I’d like y’all to accompany me in this ride of nostalgia as I rank the islands that first popped up on the map nearly 15 years ago – the five islands of 2008. If you don’t know, this includes Time Tangled, 24 Carrot, Super Power, Spy, and Nabooti. Do you feel old yet?
Disclaimer: This is not a full review for each island, so each analysis will be kept brief.
#5: 24 Carrot Island 🥕
At the unfortunate placement of 5th, we have 24 Carrot Island – originally released on June 6, 2008. Not at all do I think this island is bad on its own, but I don’t think it’s up to par when compared to the other islands from this year. Being one of the first islands in the game, it is noticeably simpler than most. However, we must remember that simple does not necessarily mean low-quality.
It’s no secret this island debuted the single most iconic character of the entire game, Dr. Hare, so we have that to thank it for. Another thing about 24 Carrot island I love is that it feels so quintessentially “Poptropica” (if that makes sense). Obviously it’s held up after all this time since it’s one of the only old islands that’s still playable from the map.
#4: Time Tangled Island ⏱️
In 4th place, originally released on April 15, 2008, is the transtemporal quest Time Tangled Island! I like that this island is very educational in an organic way, which at its core is what Poptropica is all about. I enjoy not only traveling to different parts of the world, but in different time periods as well. It really serves to amp up the satisfaction factor.
It’s not the most original concept, nor does it feature any memorable characters, but it’s definitely fun to play through. There is also something to be said for the amount of brain power needed to complete it which is something that today’s islands seem to lack in my opinion.
#3: Nabooti Island 💎
Next is none other than Nabooti Island, which was released at the very end of the year on December 11. At one point, this was actually one of my all-time favorites, and for good reason. The adventurous nature of this island is exhilarating and the scenery is quite beautiful for this time in Poptropica (when most scenes were a bit bland in my view). Another fun tidbit about this island that I’m not sure many newer players are aware of is the cool cell phone trick used to get various costume parts by dialing specific numbers. (refer to the trivia section in our island guide)
What this island is missing, though, is an array of interesting characters – or even at least one or two for that matter. So for all of these reasons considered, Nabooti sits smack dab in the middle of this ranking at 3rd place.
#2: Super Power Island 💥
Where do I even begin with Super Power Island? I can almost say for certain that everybody likes this island to some capacity. What kid wouldn’t want to become a superhero and defeat bad guys for a day? This island, albeit uncomplicated, is a super entertaining classic. If you don’t agree, I’ll have to respect your incorrect opinion.
Super Power (released on July 24, 2008 – just two days before the PHB was born!) manages to find a perfect balance of being tough to beat while still remaining enjoyable and not too stressful. (I’m looking at you Virus Hunter…)The amount of creativity spawned from this island (i.e. fanart) alone is a testament to how good it really was while it was around. Characters like Betty Jetty and Ned Noodlehead remain popular to this day and the rest of the villains get their fair share in the spotlight as well.
It was a super close call to determine which island deserved to be crowned my top island of 2008, but in the end the coronation goes to…
#1: Spy Island 🔍
Released on September 9, 2008 was Poptropica’s 6th quest to grace the map, Spy Island. Like time travel and superheroism, espionage is another perfect theme for an island, and it was done very well! All of the gadgets were really fun to utilize (my favorite being the chameleon suit), and although the grappling bowtie could be a little frustrating, it was fun to just monkey around with whenever you needed a little break from the actual island.
Moments like sneaking around the dogs, memorizing the ingredients to become a chef, and the snatching of Director D’s wig have lived in my head rent-free for the past decade and a half. And overall, the story and plot of this island was *chef’s kiss*. At the time of its release, Spy Island definitely had the most complex story and the most challenging tasks. This island was surely a pioneer for the many exciting islands yet to come and it certainly made its mark on the game. There’s even a printable sheet for the decoder kit used in the island, which is rare for any item in the game! How cool is that?
Ah, sweet sweet memories. 2008 was a pretty good year for island releases, and it was a pleasure to talk about them for a little bit. Most of them are gone, but they will never be forgotten.
Did you get a chance to play any of these islands? Which one was your favorite and least favorite? Leave your rankings and any other thoughts in the comments section below.
I love this island, but it’s not super popular among the majority of the fandom. I think everyone enjoyed riding Elmer, playing Slap Jack, and herding cattle, but like most of the islands on this list, this adventure was overshadowed by the longer, more challenging islands.
When Old Poptropica was brought back for a short while in 2020, SOS Island was the first classic I played, and I loved it. I liked how although you didn’t interact with NPCs all that much, there were a lot of little mini-games, each revealing a little part of what really happened after you complete them. I loved the twist ending as well.
This one took me forever to complete. I loved flying around Africa, exploring different regions and collecting jewels. (Spoiler alert: Not gonna lie, though, the part when the totem pole comes to life, talks, and flies away did freak me out.) I had to look up how to play Mancala before I could even do the Mountains of the Moon part because I had no idea what this game was, and I didn’t really understand what I was supposed to do when I was taking pictures for Big Zeke, but this was still one of my favorite islands.
I feel like the islands based on comics, books, and other franchises unrelated to Poptropica don’t get as much attention as the more original islands do, but Big Nate Island really nailed it as far as gameplay, storytelling, and humor goes. I really miss playing this one.
Okay, you gotta love Charlie Brown and this island. Even though I didn’t know what to do when the Red Baron ship was chasing me in Snoopy’s mini-game, and I had a really hard time with the part where you roll the pumpkin over to the Van Pelt house, I loved the simple yet challenging gameplay, the hilarious cutscenes, and the lovable characters. This was an overall fantastic island that feels like it should be more popular.
So there you have it! These are five islands I believe to be underrated and don’t have all the attention they deserve. Hope you enjoyed it!
On another note, does anyone here know about Blooket? It’s a site where you can take random quizzes and play games, and I recently created a quiz about Old Poptropica!
It’s got a range of trivia questions about the game from basic to advanced, and I’m always adding new questions! You’ll need a free account to play. Once you log in, look for my “Ultimate Poptropica Quiz” by searching for it under the “Discover” tab.
Please try it out and let me know what you think of it! You can share your suggestions for new questions in the comments. Thanks for reading!
The Poptropica Help Blog welcomes interesting Poptropica insights from anyone in the Poptropica community with thoughts to share. Interested in writing for the PHB? We’d love to hear from you!
🏝 Poptropica Help Blog 🗺 
