Critical Play #6: Puzzles, Monument Valley

A mechanic describes the participle components of the game, at the level of data and algorithms, and the mechanics in Monument Valley are integral for shaping the overall player experience. Monument valley is an enacting story puzzle game, a linear story composed of chapters gated with puzzles – known for its remarkable visual experience.

A key mechanic is the manipulation of the environment Ida needs to navigate through. The beautifully constructed structures are composed of rotating and shifting platforms, bridges, and stairways that create other paths for the main character to surpass a level. Manipulating these platforms is the primary puzzle solving initiative as the narrative unfolds. The mechanic of rotating and oscillating structures helps create a dynamic of encouraging exploration and low stress trial and error. This creates an aesthetic of visual sensation through the stunning graphics and challenge through the continuous levels of puzzles.

Secondly, The empty space used in the game is a mechanic that helps contribute to the calming aura of the game, making gameplay feel more brighter. Lastly, an additional mechanic is the soothing music and its integration in the audiovisual presentation. There is a seamless harmony between the music and visuals that give the game an out-of-this-world feel.


(this zoomed up screenshot hugging the main maze still has a plethora of blank background space)

The puzzles in the game pass the rules of puzzles from lecture. Especially notable, for (Rule 1) puzzles being fair, the emphasis on attacking humans’ spatial awareness, perception, and logical thinking. This is relatively equalizing for all players, since our lived experiences don’t prepare us for the morphing and skewing dimensions of gameplay in Monument Valley. Players have to think outside the box to reach (Rule 3) the one correct answer of the mind-bending puzzles.

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