In the world of puzzle games, Monument Valley 2 stands out not only for its stunning visual design but also for its unique blend of mechanics and narrative. Created by ustwo games and available on iOS and Android, Monument Valley 2 targets puzzle game enthusiasts, casual gamers, and those who appreciate a good story. Initially, I was skeptical about enjoying this game due to my usual aversion to puzzles. However, the balance between challenge and gratification, coupled with a compelling narrative, quickly changed my perspective.
When I played Monument Valley 2, I found that the mechanics of the puzzles significantly enhanced my experience by intertwining gameplay with an emotionally engaging story. This connection gave me a sense of purpose, particularly through the responsibility of guiding the in-game child character. As someone who loves kids, this aspect resonated deeply with me. The game’s puzzles were not just obstacles to overcome; they were integral to the narrative, making each solved puzzle a step forward in the journey of the protagonist, Ro, and her child.
From the first level, Monument Valley 2 introduces players to its core mechanics inspired by impossible geometry and optical illusions. These puzzles required me to think critically and shift my perspective, which at first seemed daunting. Initally, I became frustrated my inability to solve the puzzle. But, the “aha” moment of solving this initial puzzle had me hooked for the rest of the game (Figure 1). The game’s design ensured that I quickly grasped the concepts needed to solve the puzzles, making subsequent levels more intuitive and enjoyable. This learning curve was crucial as it prevented frustration and maintained a sense of accomplishment.
Figure 1
A defining feature of Monument Valley 2 is the relationship between Ro and her child (Figure 2). The puzzles often necessitate guiding both characters, symbolizing the parental role and the child’s growth. This mechanic deepened my emotional engagement, as solving puzzles directly influenced the narrative. For instance, I had to manipulate the environment to create paths for the child. I especially enjoyed this because I love kids. This aspect of the game added a layer of meaning to each puzzle, making them more than just intellectual challenges.
Figure 2
When compared to other puzzle games like Candy Crush, Monument Valley 2 stands out due to its narrative integration. While Candy Crush provides straightforward match-three challenges, it does not offer the same level of emotional connection through story. Monument Valley 2’s puzzles serve a dual purpose: they are both intellectually stimulating and narratively meaningful. This duality is what differentiates it from other games in the genre.
The Mechanics-Dynamics-Aesthetics (MDA) framework helps in understanding how Monument Valley 2 achieves this blend of gameplay and narrative. The mechanics, which involve puzzle-solving through environmental manipulation, lead to dynamics where I interacted with Ro and her child. These interactions produced aesthetics, creating an emotional experience of care and responsibility. This framework makes the mechanics of the puzzles essential to the overall impact of the game.
In level 4, “The Child Learns Her First Lesson”(Figure 3 & 4), the stakes were significantly higher for me because I had to guide the child from a distance, without being physically present with her. This separation heightened my sense of responsibility and anxiety, making each puzzle solution feel more impactful and crucial for her growth. The emotional intensity of ensuring her safety and success, even from afar, added a profound depth to the gameplay. I felt a mix of nervousness and pride as I watched her navigate the challenges on her own, knowing that my guidance was essential to her learning and development.
Figure 3
Figure 4
Another key moment that stuck out to me was after another level. I was able to draw something resembling a mandala. This both allowed me to feel creative with some level of customization in the game and feel accomplished by earning the ability to draw it (Figure 5).
Figure 5
Monument Valley 2’s puzzle mechanics significantly influenced my experience by creating a balanced and gratifying challenge while simultaneously driving the narrative forward. This integration of gameplay and story not only differentiates it from other puzzle games but also exemplifies the power of thoughtful game design in crafting memorable experiences.
