Name of the Game: Monument Valley
Platform of the Game: Iphone App
Game’s Creator: Ustwo studio ltd
Target audience: Non-gamers, all ages
“How do the mechanics of the puzzle(s) influence the experience of the game?”
Monument Valley, developed by Ustwo Games, is a renowned puzzle game that has captivated players with its unique mechanics and stunning visual design. As players navigate through its intricate levels, they are immersed in an experience where the mechanics of the puzzles profoundly influence their engagement, enjoyment, and overall perception of the game. In this blog post, I will explore how these mechanics shape the player’s journey and contribute to the game’s success.
Monument Valley’s puzzles are characterized by their reliance on optical illusions, perspective manipulation, and spatial reasoning. The game’s core mechanics revolve around guiding Princess Ida through a series of beautifully crafted levels that resemble impossible architecture inspired by M.C. Escher. Each level presents a new set of challenges that require players to think outside the box and manipulate the environment to progress.
One of the most striking mechanics in Monument Valley is the use of perspective shifts and optical illusions. The game leverages the power of isometric art to create structures that defy conventional geometry. Players must rotate and manipulate these structures to align pathways and create new routes for Ida. This mechanic not only challenges players to rethink their spatial understanding but also instills a sense of wonder and amazement as impossible pathways become tangible through clever manipulation.
For instance, a seemingly unconnected platform might suddenly align with a staircase when viewed from a different angle (pictured left). This mechanic forces players to engage in trial and error, experimenting with various perspectives until they unlock the correct path. The satisfaction derived from these moments of revelation is a testament to the effectiveness of this mechanic in enhancing the player’s experience.
Monument Valley also excels in its use of interactive elements within the environment. Players can manipulate levers, rotate wheels, and slide platforms to alter the landscape and create new pathways. These interactions are intuitive and seamlessly integrated into the game’s aesthetic, making the puzzles feel like an organic part of the world rather than a separate challenge imposed on the player.
The tactile nature of these interactions encourages players to explore and experiment. The game rewards curiosity and persistence, often revealing hidden pathways or secret areas through subtle environmental cues (such as having the Princess walk sideways on a building, pictured right). This mechanic not only adds depth to the puzzles but also enhances the sense of immersion, as players feel like active participants in Ida’s journey rather than passive observers.
Beyond the intellectual satisfaction of solving puzzles, Monument Valley’s mechanics also contribute to the emotional experience of the game. The serene, almost meditative atmosphere created by the minimalist art style and soothing soundtrack is complemented by the gentle pace of the puzzles. This design choice fosters a sense of tranquility and introspection, allowing players to become fully absorbed in the experience. The mechanics of the puzzles are designed to be approachable and forgiving as well as challenging, ensuring that players of all skill levels can enjoy the game. There is no time pressure or punitive failure system; instead, players are encouraged to take their time and appreciate the beauty of the game world.
In Monument Valley, the mechanics of the puzzles are an integral part of the overall experience. The use of perspective shifts and optical illusions challenges players’ spatial reasoning and rewards them with moments of awe and wonder. Interactive environmental elements encourage exploration and experimentation, while the game’s serene atmosphere and approachable design ensure an emotionally resonant and inclusive experience.
Ultimately, the success of Monument Valley lies in its ability to harmonize these mechanics with its artistic vision, creating a cohesive and memorable journey for players. The puzzles are more than just obstacles to overcome; they are an essential part of the narrative and aesthetic, enriching the game world and deepening the player’s connection to it.
