Turning puzzle pieces over in one’s palm, simultaneously scanning the surrounding colors, textures, and forms on the canvas, is a uniquely pleasurable experience that has been proven beneficial for mental well-being. Typically, puzzles prove resilient when adapted into a digital format. The sequel to their acclaimed work is not a straightforward continuation of earlier themes.
While traditional puzzle video games often rely on awkward keyboard layouts or cumbersome mouse-based interfaces, innovates by refining the swift, action-oriented controls found in its predecessor, successfully transforming the gaming experience into an immersive, tactile puzzle-solving adventure. On the planet of Andorvia, you’re still taking part in as Wilmot; you’re now within the midst of unpacking and adorning your own home with artwork, which has conveniently been disassembled into precisely one-centimeter-by-one-centimeter cubes. As Sam the postal worker deposits the package, it’s an opportune moment to unbox and start reconfiguring the components in the comfort of your home’s foyer.
The challenge lies not just in the surface-level puzzles, which vary in complexity, scope, and subject matter (I’m particularly fond of the underwater creatures in this category). Additionally, there are misleading red herrings – objects seemingly identical in hue or shape to others, yet actually belonging to distinct puzzles altogether. While awaiting the arrival of corresponding pieces, it’s essential to focus on completing the current puzzle without delaying repairs, pending further supplies from Sam.
The hallway’s floor serves as a vast expanse, awaiting the creative arrangement of items into thoughtfully curated piles, whereupon one can focus on constructing each piece of artistry. When you position a piece correctly, a crisp click and a brief flash confirm that you’ve successfully made a match. As players complete puzzles, they transform into visually striking pieces of art that can be proudly displayed in their digital gallery, initially in the main corridor and eventually in newly unlocked areas throughout the game’s progression.
I may choose to separate or disregard the decorative element from the game. I find the controls related to this feature awkwardly designed and frustrating, distracting me from the task of solving more complex puzzles and instead prompting me to organize my artistic endeavors. However, one of the joys is that you’re free to decide whether or not to take the time to embellish, as you see fit. Here’s an opportunity to customize your personal space with unlockable objects such as hanging crops and pets that can be placed throughout your home.
The artwork style was surprisingly consistent with its predecessors, and I appreciated the streamlined aesthetic amidst a wave of ultra-realistic and 3D-heavy designs. While the 2D design is fitting for a puzzle game where challenges are also two-dimensional, its appeal is further amplified by evoking a nostalgic feeling reminiscent of classic games released in August 2019.
While some may initially wonder whether the sport becomes monotonous over time, they’ll eventually concede that its inherent nature makes repetition inevitable. Despite this being my intended objective. A soothing, familiar game is elevated by an intriguing narrative surrounding Postwoman Sam’s conversational style and her disclosures to Wilmot, while the challenges increase in complexity throughout the experience. If you’re a fan of immersive games, then is an absolute must-play that will keep you hooked until the very end. Take a break then, returning refreshed to revel in the sweet satisfaction of another puzzle solved with ease.
Wilmot Works it Out
