Listened to the audio drama before playing, like the manual recommends. It has fantastic production value and sets a great mood.
First I tried VGA version and struggled to find my way off the island of Loom. I then read how that version has some dialogue cut, specifically a line that hinted at the part where I was stuck.
I promptly switched to the EGA version, and glad I did. The artwork is gorgeous, and with all the carefully-crafted dialogue.
Might return to the VGA version for completeness, but I have a pretty good sense how well it will compare. I never knew Loom is this good!