Media
Synopsis
In Monument Valley, the player leads the player-character princess Ida through mazes of optical illusions and impossible objects, which are referred to as "sacred geometry" in-game, as she journeys to be forgiven for something. The game is presented in isometric view, and the player interacts with the environment to find hidden passages as Ida progresses to the map's exit. Each of the ten levels has a different central mechanic. Interactions include moving platforms and pillar animals, and creating bridges. The player is indirectly cued through the game by design elements like color, and directly cued by crow people, who block Ida's path. Critics compared the game's visual style to a vibrant M. C. Escher drawing and Echochrome. The game includes a camera mode where the player can roam the level to compose screenshots. It includes filters à la Instagram.
What it’s like
Monument Valley offers a serene, meditative journey through impossible architecture that defies physics and perspective. You guide a silent princess named Ida across isometric landscapes where optical illusions are the primary mechanic; by rotating structures and shifting viewpoints, you connect disparate paths to reveal hidden routes. The experience is defined by its stunning visual craft, drawing heavy inspiration from M.C. Escher’s paradoxical drawings with clean, pastel-colored geometry and minimalist design. There is no combat or time pressure, allowing for a slow, relaxing pace where the focus remains entirely on spatial reasoning and aesthetic appreciation. While the narrative premise of seeking forgiveness exists, it is conveyed through abstract imagery rather than explicit dialogue, serving more as atmospheric context than a plot driver. The game feels like an interactive art gallery, prioritizing moments of 'aha!' realization and visual harmony over complex systems or challenging difficulty.
Strong in Atmosphere / MoodAudio / MusicPacingPolish / PerformanceVisuals / ArtGameplay / Mechanics
Keep in mind The linear structure offers limited replayability once the puzzles are mastered, and players seeking deep narrative engagement or mechanical complexity may find the experience too brief and abstract. Additionally, the lack of traditional storytelling elements means those who prefer character-driven plots might feel disconnected from the journey.
AI-generated from catalog data, informed by reviews from cnet.com, metacritic.com, gamingtrend.com, macstories.net, blog.richersounds.com.