Hard Puzzle Games - What? Which? Why?
Hard puzzle games can be some of the most challenging and rewarding gaming experiences out there. With intricate puzzles and mind-bending challenges, these games can test even the most skilled and patient gamers. These games challenge players to use their problem-solving skills to overcome a variety of obstacles and challenges, and can provide hours of engaging and rewarding gameplay.
In this post, we'll be taking a closer look at hard puzzle video games. We'll explore what makes these games so challenging and engaging, provide some recommendations for games to try out, and discuss the benefits of playing puzzle games.
What Makes Hard Puzzle Games So Challenging?
Hard puzzle games are designed to be incredibly challenging, requiring players to use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to overcome a variety of obstacles and challenges. Some of the factors that make these games so challenging include the following:
Complexity - Many hard puzzle games have complex mechanics and rules that can be difficult to understand at first. Players must often spend time learning the game mechanics and figuring out how to solve puzzles.
Difficulty Curve - Hard puzzle games often have a steep difficulty curve, with puzzles getting progressively more challenging as the game goes on. Players must stay engaged and focused to progress through the game.
Trial and Error - Many hard puzzle games require a lot of trial and error to solve puzzles. Players must be patient and persistent to find the right solution.
Time Pressure - Some hard puzzle games include time pressure, requiring players to solve puzzles quickly to progress. This can add an extra layer of challenge to the game.
Lack of Guidance - Many hard puzzle games provide little to no guidance on how to solve puzzles, forcing players to rely on their own critical thinking skills to find the solution.
Recommended Hard Puzzle Video Games
1) The Witness - This game is known for its beautiful visuals and intricate puzzles. Players must explore a mysterious island and solve a variety of challenging puzzles to progress through the game. The Game's Wiki Guide
2) Portal 2 - This game is a classic for a reason. The puzzle mechanics are simple but incredibly challenging, and the witty writing and unique characters make for an engaging storyline.
The official Portal games website
3) Return of the Obra Dinn - This game puts players in the role of an insurance investigator tasked with figuring out what happened to a missing ship. With a unique art style and challenging deductive reasoning puzzles, this game is sure to keep you engaged.
4) Stephen's Sausage Roll - This game has been called one of the most difficult puzzle games ever made, and for good reason. Players must use spatial reasoning and critical thinking skills to solve complex puzzles involving sausages and grilling.
A review of the game by The Guardian
5) The Talos Principle - This game combines challenging puzzles with philosophical musings on what it means to be human. With multiple endings and a deep storyline, this game is sure to keep players engaged for hours.
The game's page on Devolver's website
Benefits of Playing Puzzle Games
Playing hard puzzle video games can provide several benefits beyond just the enjoyment of the game itself. Some of the benefits of playing puzzle games include:
Improved Problem-Solving Skills - Puzzle games require players to use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to overcome challenges. Playing these games regularly can improve these skills in real life as well.
Increased Patience - Many hard puzzle games require a lot of patience to solve. Playing these games regularly can help improve patience and persistence in real life as well.
Improved Memory - Some puzzle games require players to remember complex rules and mechanics. Regularly playing these games can help improve memory and recall.
Reduced Stress - Playing video games, including puzzle games, can help reduce stress levels and provide a sense of relaxation and escape from everyday life. The focus required to solve puzzles can also help to clear the mind and reduce anxiety.
Increased Creativity - Hard puzzle games often require players to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions to challenges. This can help to foster creativity and innovation in other areas of life as well.
Fun and Entertainment - Ultimately, one of the main benefits of playing hard puzzle video games is simply the enjoyment and entertainment they provide. These games can be a great way to pass the time, unwind, and have fun.
Whether you're a seasoned puzzle game enthusiast or new to the genre, there are plenty of hard puzzle games out there to try out and enjoy. So why not give them a try and see how far your problem-solving skills can take you? (;
Join our community on Discord for some behind-the-scene puzzle-platformer game development processes: https://discord.gg/tEbn8bAV4B
