amazon The Witness reviews
Overview
You will play a character who wakes up in the tunnel, the first thing you do will be to move, by pressing the screen to the point of need, next you will encounter an electronic board and instructions: connect the beginning point and the end point to open the door, this is also the first puzzle and the most fundamental puzzle philosophy, throughout the hundreds of puzzles you will encounter during the game.
After a few more quizzes, you’ll find yourself exploring a beautiful, sunny island with countless mysteries that need solving. As such, the beginning of the game has no plot, no commentary line, players will enter the world of The Witness with the perception of the game is just a zero figure.
Gameplay, graphics and sound
Characters can be walked or run (On the iPhone or iPad, character movement will be slightly more difficult than on PC or PS4), zoom in and interact with The puzzles are found. These puzzles will become increasingly difficult, become more complicated, from connecting a point to a parallel connection, multi-point connection, color matching, etc. … like the multitude of puzzles are waiting for people answer.
In terms of graphics, The Witness is meticulously designed with simple but detailed 3D style. Each part of the island has its own characteristics with different environments. Most notably is the arrangement of objects and riddles, as well as the “circuit board” in the game are intentional and purpose.
The simple yet beautiful indie gameplay style has been used by Thekla, from tree branches, grass tops to blocks. However, the color on the iOS is somewhat “flashy” and dazzling. The sound of the game is carefully scrutinized, from birds singing to the sound of leaves, are reproduced quite authentic.
Looking at the game looks pretty simple and bland, so what makes The Witness so attractive?
Not everyone likes to play a puzzle game where they will have to reincarnate into a character with a first-person perspective, wandering alone on a sunny island, only traveling and connecting the beginning to the end point. For some new players, it will be boring because the gameplay is too monotonous.
But it is this that makes the game easy and difficult, making the puzzles always halfway, just solved, the secrets surrounding the puzzles that pull players into further to explain the other secrets. The game mechanics link point to the end-line is simple, but the simpler this becomes extremely complex and interesting, puzzles and stimulates players to explore themselves.
In particular, this is a game that will teach you a puzzle, not just asking questions, it’s one of the differences of The Witness for other games, making the player feel like ” enlightenment “when finding a mystery.
where can you get a The Witness online
The Witness – PS4 [Digital Code]: Buy it now
For the best description, The Witness will make you feel like learning a “celestial language”, but no one will be the teacher made you learn the language in one way or another, but Depending on each person, the reading of this language is not entirely the same. (The writer, in the first 2 hours to learn about the game, has tried the new start several times, but each has a different way of playing).
Game titles are not arranged in a certain order, so you can skip some puzzles, even encouraged to do so. When you go to another area and find the answers here, chances are that you will learn a new skill, so that when you return to those too difficult to ignore, you will have a viewing totally new to them.
As you play and move, you may not notice, but the surrounding things have their own meaning, which is also the way the developer makes the puzzles not only on the circuit board, but also Involves both the gaming environment around them. There is always a mystery somewhere, causing the player to go look for the finished game.
To solve the puzzle, the most important point is the angle and the alignment. The view of the puzzle will determine whether you can solve it or not, the linking of the end-point on the board, or higher is the idea through the end of the game will determine whether you have Find out the hidden deep inside the game or not.
The game takes about 40 hours to complete, however, according to talented developer Jonathan Blow is father of the game, it takes more than 80 hours for players to complete only 97% of the game, including nearly 700 sentences. There are some sentences that only about 1% of the players can solve.
Gameplay Mechanics
Core Gameplay
At its core, “The Witness” is a puzzle game set on a mysterious, uninhabited island. The player, assuming the role of an unnamed protagonist, explores this island, solving a series of puzzles that are intricately woven into the environment. The primary gameplay mechanic involves solving line puzzles, where players connect endpoints on a grid while adhering to specific rules.
The puzzles are integrated seamlessly into the environment, meaning that players must observe their surroundings to discover clues and hints. This environmental integration not only enhances immersion but also encourages players to think critically about the relationship between the puzzles and the world around them. As players progress, they encounter increasingly complex puzzles that require deeper logical reasoning and observation skills.
Puzzle Design
The puzzle design in “The Witness” is a standout feature of the game. Each puzzle is meticulously crafted to challenge the player’s spatial reasoning, pattern recognition, and logical thinking. The puzzles are introduced gradually, starting with simpler concepts and evolving into more sophisticated and multi-layered challenges.
One of the key aspects of the puzzle design is the concept of “learning by doing.” Early puzzles teach players the basic mechanics and rules, while later puzzles build on this knowledge, incorporating new elements and variations. This approach ensures that players are continually engaged and that the difficulty curve feels natural and rewarding.
The puzzles are spread across various areas of the island, each with its own theme and set of rules. For example, some areas focus on grid-based puzzles, while others incorporate color, perspective, or environmental interactions. This diversity keeps the gameplay fresh and prevents it from becoming repetitive.
Exploration and Environment
Exploration is a central element of “The Witness.” The island is divided into distinct biomes and regions, each with its own unique visual style and environmental features. Players are encouraged to explore these areas thoroughly, as clues and puzzle solutions are often hidden within the landscape.
The game’s open-world design allows players to tackle puzzles in a non-linear fashion. This freedom of exploration means that players can approach the game at their own pace, choosing which areas to investigate and which puzzles to solve. This flexibility adds to the game’s replayability and ensures that players can experience the game in their own way.
Difficulty and Challenge
The difficulty in “The Witness” is carefully calibrated to provide a satisfying challenge without becoming frustrating. The game strikes a balance between offering guidance and encouraging independent problem-solving. Early puzzles serve as tutorials, gradually introducing players to the game’s mechanics and logic.
As players progress, they encounter more complex puzzles that require a deeper understanding of the rules and concepts introduced earlier. The game does not offer direct hints or solutions but encourages players to experiment and explore different approaches. This design philosophy fosters a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction when players successfully solve a challenging puzzle.
The game also includes optional puzzles and hidden areas that provide additional challenges for those seeking a more intense experience. These optional elements contribute to the overall replayability and offer rewards for dedicated players.
Narrative and Themes
Narrative Structure
“The Witness” is notable for its minimalist approach to narrative. The game does not feature a traditional story or dialogue but instead conveys its themes and ideas through environmental storytelling and visual design. The island itself serves as a canvas for the game’s philosophical exploration.
Throughout the game, players encounter audio recordings and visual motifs that hint at a deeper narrative and thematic context. These elements encourage players to piece together their own interpretation of the game’s story and meaning. This approach allows for a highly personal and subjective experience, where each player can derive their own insights from the game’s content.
Philosophical Themes
One of the central themes of “The Witness” is the exploration of knowledge and understanding. The puzzles and environmental elements are designed to provoke thought about perception, cognition, and the nature of learning. The game’s structure encourages players to question their assumptions and explore different perspectives.
The island itself can be seen as a metaphor for the process of enlightenment and self-discovery. As players solve puzzles and uncover hidden areas, they gain a deeper understanding of the game’s world and their own thought processes. This theme of self-discovery is reinforced by the game’s non-linear design and the emphasis on personal interpretation.
The game also touches on themes of isolation and introspection. The solitary nature of the protagonist’s journey and the absence of other characters contribute to a sense of introspection and self-reflection. The game’s design encourages players to focus on their own thoughts and problem-solving skills, further emphasizing the theme of personal discovery.
Interpretation and Analysis
“The Witness” has sparked a range of interpretations and analyses from players and critics alike. Some view the game as an exploration of the human condition and the search for meaning, while others see it as a commentary on the nature of puzzles and problem-solving. The game’s open-ended narrative allows for a wide range of interpretations, making it a subject of ongoing discussion and debate.
The game’s ending and final revelations provide a sense of closure and resolution but also leave room for further reflection and analysis. The conclusion invites players to consider the broader implications of their experience and the ideas presented throughout the game. This open-ended nature contributes to the game’s lasting impact and encourages continued exploration of its themes.
Visual and Audio Design
Visual Design
The visual design of “The Witness” is a key factor in its appeal. The game features a distinctive art style characterized by vibrant colors, clean lines, and minimalistic environments. The island is visually stunning, with diverse landscapes ranging from lush forests to arid deserts and intricate ruins.
The game’s use of color and lighting enhances the visual experience and contributes to the overall atmosphere. The bright and varied color palette creates a sense of wonder and exploration, while the lighting effects add depth and realism to the environments. The visual design is carefully crafted to complement the game’s themes and gameplay mechanics.
The integration of puzzles into the environment is a notable aspect of the visual design. Puzzles are seamlessly incorporated into the landscape, often requiring players to observe and interact with their surroundings to solve them. This design choice reinforces the game’s emphasis on exploration and observation.
Audio Design
The audio design of “The Witness” complements the visual and gameplay elements, enhancing the overall experience. The game features a calming and atmospheric soundtrack that contributes to the sense of immersion and exploration. The music is subtle and unobtrusive, allowing players to focus on the puzzles and environment.
Sound effects are used sparingly but effectively, providing feedback for puzzle interactions and environmental changes. The audio recordings encountered throughout the game add to the thematic depth and offer additional context for the game’s narrative. These recordings are carefully integrated into the gameplay, providing insight without overshadowing the core experience.
Impact and Legacy
Critical Reception
“The Witness” received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with praise directed at its innovative puzzle design, philosophical themes, and artistic presentation. The game was lauded for its originality and the depth of its gameplay mechanics, which set it apart from other puzzle games.
Critics appreciated the game’s ability to challenge players intellectually while providing a rewarding and immersive experience. The minimalistic narrative and environmental storytelling were noted for their effectiveness in conveying the game’s themes and creating a personal connection with players.
Player Reception
The reception among players was also positive, with many praising the game’s challenging puzzles and thought-provoking themes. The game’s open-ended design and emphasis on exploration resonated with players who enjoyed the sense of discovery and intellectual engagement.
However, some players found the game’s minimalistic approach to narrative and guidance to be frustrating. The lack of explicit hints or solutions led to a sense of ambiguity for some players, and the game’s slow pacing was a point of contention for those seeking a more action-oriented experience.
Legacy and Influence
“The Witness” has left a lasting impact on the gaming industry and has influenced other puzzle and exploration games. Its innovative approach to puzzle design and environmental storytelling has inspired developers to explore similar concepts in their own projects.
The game’s success demonstrated the potential for video games to serve as a medium for philosophical and intellectual exploration. Its emphasis on personal interpretation and self-discovery has contributed to a broader appreciation for the artistic and thematic possibilities of video games.
Conclusion
“The Witness” stands as a remarkable achievement in the realm of puzzle games and interactive storytelling. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, philosophical themes, and artistic design combine to create a compelling and immersive experience. The game’s emphasis on exploration, observation, and personal interpretation sets it apart from traditional puzzle games and showcases the potential of video games as a medium for intellectual and artistic expression.
While the game may not appeal to everyone due to its minimalistic narrative and challenging puzzles, it offers a unique and rewarding experience for those who appreciate thoughtful and engaging gameplay. “The Witness” is a testament to the creative possibilities of video games and remains a significant and influential title in the gaming landscape.
In summary, “The Witness” is a masterful blend of puzzle-solving, exploration, and philosophical inquiry. Its impact on the gaming industry and its lasting appeal make it a must-play title for fans of puzzle games and those interested in the broader artistic potential of video games.