While novelty in gaming is often lauded, there’s a distinct charm in games that respect your time. If faced with the choice between a sprawling, endlessly innovative game and a concise, well-crafted experience, the latter frequently wins. This preference is key to understanding the appeal of A Divine Guide To Puzzle Solving. Is it groundbreaking? Not particularly. Is it a brief, enjoyable diversion? Absolutely!
Alt text: Gameplay scene from A Divine Guide to Puzzle Solving showcasing block-swapping mechanics in an outdoor environment.
In terms of originality, A Divine Guide To Puzzle Solving wears its inspirations on its sleeve. It doesn’t take a seasoned gamer to recognize the echoes of titles like Portal and The Talos Principle. However, unlike the sterile, indoor environments of Portal, this game unfolds in open, natural settings. To accurately describe it, envision a blend of Portal’s core mechanics with the outdoor ambiance of The Talos Principle – a fitting assessment indeed. This familiar foundation isn’t necessarily a drawback, especially when considering the game’s appealing brevity.
Alt text: A puzzle in A Divine Guide to Puzzle Solving requiring block manipulation to solve, set in a natural outdoor environment.
A Divine Guide To Puzzle Solving offers a compact puzzle-solving experience. Across its sixteen levels, a playthrough typically clocks in around two hours, or even a swift hour for adept players. The core mechanic of swapping blocks is introduced within the first few minutes, and the gameplay loop remains largely consistent throughout. While some puzzles might require a moment of contemplation, and occasional restarts due to block misplacement are inevitable, the overall pace is brisk. It’s the kind of game that comfortably fits into a single session, leaving ample time for other pursuits. Adding to the experience is a darkly humorous, deity narrator who provides mocking commentary, offering an extra layer of entertainment as you navigate the puzzles.
Alt text: Another puzzle scenario from A Divine Guide to Puzzle Solving, highlighting the environmental puzzle design and block-based gameplay.
While a full-price purchase might warrant consideration, the game’s price point offers considerable value. For around $8, you receive approximately 90 minutes of engaging entertainment, while simultaneously supporting an independent developer. Ultimately, if you are a devotee of Portal-esque puzzle games and appreciate a shorter, focused experience, A Divine Guide To Puzzle Solving is a worthwhile addition to your library.
Nementic Games provided a Divine Guide To Puzzle Solving PC code for review purposes.
Score: 8
