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The timeless beauty of European architecture has been a recurring theme in video games. However, its ubiquity has led to a sense of familiarity, even fatigue. NEXT Studios, with their monochromatic puzzle game Iris.Fall, has found a unique way to rekindle the allure of this classic setting. Using a stark black and white aesthetic reminiscent of early cinema, they’ve crafted an experience that is both familiar and dreamlike. This review explores the captivating world of Iris.Fall, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses.

A Monochromatic World of Wonder

Iris.Fall immerses players in a bygone era, blending classic European architecture with a distinct black and white art style. But it’s the subtle touches of magic, the ethereal creatures and objects, and the fantastical environments that truly set it apart. The game’s world evokes classic fairy tales like Peter Pan, Cinderella, and The Little Match Girl, creating a sense of nostalgia and wonder. This dreamlike atmosphere, juxtaposed with the starkness of the two-color palette, results in a unique aesthetic that is both captivating and melancholic.

Complementing the visuals is a carefully crafted soundscape. Detailed sound effects and a haunting, ethereal soundtrack enhance the game’s mysterious atmosphere, perfectly aligning with the overall tone.

The story unfolds within this enigmatic setting, following Iris as she awakens from a dream and chases a black cat into an old theater. This theater becomes a labyrinth of light and shadow, where Iris uncovers secrets seemingly connected to her own past. The narrative is intentionally ambiguous, offering clues and hints rather than explicit answers, allowing players to form their own interpretations. While this ambiguity may resonate with some, others might find the narrative too vague and underdeveloped. Regardless, the underlying sense of mystery and darkness perfectly encapsulates the game’s overall essence.

Iris.Fall

A Play of Light and Shadow

The core of Iris.Fall lies in its innovative puzzle mechanics. Utilizing the game’s two-color palette, the puzzles cleverly interplay light and shadow. Iris possesses the ability to merge with shadows, transitioning between the three-dimensional world and the two-dimensional plane of shadows cast upon the walls. This unique mechanic allows her to bypass obstacles, reach inaccessible areas, and interact with objects in ways impossible in the physical world.

The puzzles themselves are diverse, ranging from simple logic puzzles to item hunts, jigsaw challenges, and even a Rubik’s Cube. While most puzzles are relatively straightforward, the 2x2x2 Rubik’s Cube presents a significant challenge. This puzzle requires players to manipulate the cube not just to match colors, but also to direct beams of light onto specific points to unlock progress. For those unfamiliar with Rubik’s Cubes, this puzzle can be quite time-consuming.

Overall, Iris.Fall excels in its puzzle design. Instead of relying on a predictable “go here, do that” formula, the game seamlessly integrates the environment into the puzzles, making every element a part of the challenge. For players seeking unique and engaging puzzles, Iris.Fall offers a truly rewarding experience.

A Journey Without a Destination

Despite its creative premise and captivating visuals, Iris.Fall suffers from a lack of narrative momentum. The developers’ attempt to create a mysterious and ambiguous story backfires by leaving players without a clear understanding of their purpose. The lack of a defined threat or objective renders the journey somewhat aimless.

This absence of motivation transforms Iris.Fall into a disconnected series of puzzles. Players progress from one challenge to the next without a compelling reason to continue. Compared to similar puzzle games like The Missing: J.J. Macfield and the Island of Memories or Forgotton Anne, which provide strong narrative hooks to drive the player forward, Iris.Fall feels lacking. The game prioritizes ambiguity and symbolism over a clear and engaging narrative, leaving players wondering why they should continue their journey.

Conclusion

Iris.Fall shines with its unique art style, intriguing atmosphere, and clever puzzle mechanics. However, the lack of a compelling narrative and a clear sense of purpose ultimately hinders the overall experience. While the game offers moments of brilliance, the absence of a driving force diminishes the impact of its other strengths. If you are looking for a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating puzzle experience, Iris.Fall is worth considering. However, be prepared for a journey that is as enigmatic as it is beautiful.