I’ve always been fascinated by Metroidvanias. I appreciate the exploration, the discovery of new abilities, and the sense of progression that these games offer. However, I’ve always felt a greater affinity for those that focus on action. The adrenaline of facing challenging enemies and overcoming obstacles with rabbit-like reflexes has always held my attention more than solving super-complex puzzles.
So when I heard about Exographer, a Metroidvania-style game that focuses on exploration and puzzle solving, I felt a mixture of excitement and doubt. The idea of a game that combines science and space adventure was tempting, but I was afraid that the puzzle mechanics would frustrate me. Still, the promise of a detailed alien world accompanied by a scientific backdrop intrigued me enough to embark on this adventure.
Advertising:
I won’t fool you. From the first moment I was captivated by Exographer’s pixel art aesthetic. Each level is designed with an incredible level of detail that invites exploration. The setting is captivating and reminded me a lot of Scavengers Reign in many moments. I don’t know if you know it, that miniseries about some guys who are the survivors of an interstellar cargo ship and are stranded on an alien planet, full of all this super extravagant flora and fauna (in the best sense of the word). word), and that they have to explore the planet, etc.
Well, with Exographer, you become InI, an explorer stranded on a mysterious alien planet. In this case, your mission is to uncover the secrets of the extinct Natitan civilization while facing a series of challenges and puzzles. Using your tools and abilities, such as a camera that reveals hidden particles, you must overcome obstacles and solve puzzles in a sprawling world that spans more than 20 levels and six different biomes, some of which are as extravagantly colored as Scavengers Reign (again, in the best sense of the word).
Additionally, the fact that the game’s development is supported by real scientists adds a remarkable authenticity to the experience. The puzzles are based on scientific principles, which made me feel like each challenge was not just a test of my skills, but also an opportunity to learn something new. Additionally, all of this context adds a level of realism and meaning to the game that is lacking in many puzzle games where you solve puzzles for the sake of it, rather than because the game’s narrative requires it.
Advertising:
However, the gameplay experience also brought challenges. While the idea of solving puzzles using physics and observation concepts is intriguing, I found myself stuck several times. Some of the puzzles require a deeper understanding of the underlying scientific principles than I expected. And while the game offers interesting tools, such as magnetic boots reminiscent of those in The Expanse and a force field that distorts molecular density, the complexity of the puzzles left me frustrated.
One plus point is the game’s non-linear structure, which allows players to explore the game more freely. However, for me, this also meant that I was often lost, not following a clear line but thinking about what to do next. The combination of puzzles requiring observation and the need to interact with the environment in certain ways felt overwhelming at times. But I think a puzzle lover would really appreciate these features.
Despite these difficulties, I couldn’t deny the attraction the game had on me. The search for secrets and the exploration of different biomes kept me hooked. The world of Exographer is full of details and surprises, inviting curiosity and discovery. And if I have to highlight something about the game, it is its setting (which, as I said, reminds me of Scavengers Reign) and its use of science as an element that gives meaning to the puzzles. And indeed, there is a great coherence between the story and the game dynamics: thanks to science, everything within the narrative makes sense. Even when you die, you have the option to teleport. This wealth of meaning is definitely one of Exographer’s strengths.
Ultimately, while Exographer presents challenges that can be frustrating for those (like me) who aren’t comfortable with puzzles or don’t have that much patience, the focus on science and the unique setting make it a compelling experience. I think it’s a very accessible game for everyone: the scientific elements aren’t particularly complex, but many of us have seen them before in other feature films, series, and video games.
Ultimately, Exographer is a title that offers a fascinating proposition for lovers of discovery and science, but also for a general audience who want to have fun solving scientific puzzles. The mix of art, music and narrative creates an immersive experience that, while challenging, is hard to resist. It is definitely a game worth exploring. Without a doubt, it has the ability to inspire those who are willing to take on the challenge.
