The Game Monument Valley targets gamers interested in artistic and thought-provoking puzzle experiences. It was developed by ustwo games and can be played via iOS, Android, Windows Phone, and Windows.
For this game experience, I argue that the puzzle-based mechanics in Monument Valley are designed to enhance the player’s immersion, merging spatial manipulation with an evocative narrative and rich visual-audio elements to create a unique and engaging journey. Such puzzle mechanics, I would like to call it as “spatial puzzles.” The game also aligns with Ian Bogost’s idea of procedural rhetoric, using its mechanics to convey messages about perspective and perception. The way I had to shift my viewpoint to progress mirrored the narrative themes of understanding and forgiveness, creating a powerful synergy between gameplay and story.
When I first played Monument Valley, I was immediately struck by its blending spatial puzzles with an evocative narrative and stunning visual-audio elements. The main mechanic involves manipulating the environment to guide the protagonist, Ida, through a series of beautifully crafted levels. This involves rotating parts of the architecture, moving platforms, and creating optical illusions, all of which fundamentally shaped my experience.
The game’s puzzles revolve around manipulating impossible geometry, possibly inspired by the works of M.C. Escher. I found myself constantly challenged to think critically about perspective and spatial relationships, as objects shifted and aligned in unexpected ways. This not only tested my logic and spatial awareness but also created a sense of wonder and discovery. One memorable moment was when I had to rotate a large circular structure to connect pathways and create new routes for Ida. This required me to visualize the level from multiple angles, enhancing my engagement with the environment.
The narrative of Monument Valley is minimalist yet profound. It tells the story of Ida’s quest for forgiveness, with each puzzle seamlessly integrated into the storyline. The narrative provided context for the puzzles, making my actions feel meaningful and emotionally resonant. A particularly moving moment was when Ida encountered the ghost of another character, who revealed fragments of the backstory. This deepened my emotional connection to the game, making the puzzle-solving experience more impactful.
The visual design of Monument Valley is characterized by clean lines, vibrant colors, and surreal landscapes. The art style is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, guiding my attention to important elements and pathways. The audio complements the visuals perfectly, with a soothing soundtrack and subtle sound effects that enhance the ambiance. For example, when a platform is correctly aligned, a soft chime reinforced my progress, creating a satisfying feedback loop.
Monument Valley stands out from other puzzle games like The Room series or Portal due to its unique combination of artistic design and spatial puzzles. While the former focuses on tactile puzzle-solving and the latter emphasizes physics-based mechanics, Monument Valley’s strength lies in its ability to create optical illusions and manipulate perspective. This distinct approach sets it apart and creates a more contemplative and visually driven experience.
Although Monument Valley is widely praised, I noticed areas where it could be improved. The difficulty level remains relatively constant throughout the game. Introducing more complex puzzles or adjustable difficulty settings could provide a greater challenge for seasoned players. Additionally, expanding the narrative depth with more character interactions or backstory elements could further enhance the emotional engagement (just for me). Providing more insight into Ida’s world and her motivations would make the journey even more compelling.
