Don't feel bad for seeking help in video games.

Video games can be quite challenging, and sometimes we all need a little help to get through a particularly tough level. This was the case for one reader who recently played the award-winning game Animal Well. Despite not being a fan of platform games, he stumbled upon this hidden gem while searching for something with an underground theme.

At first glance, Animal Well seemed like a simple game with basic graphics. But upon watching a video of the game in action, the reader was immediately drawn in and decided to give it a try. The game starts off with four flames and a glimpse of a scary face, reminiscent of the movie The Exorcist.

These are actually helpful clues that can guide players through the game. The game itself is set in a spectral labyrinth with 8-bit retro graphics, creating a spooky yet calming atmosphere. The sound effects, such as the call of a cuckoo and the flapping of wings, add to the overall eerie ambience.

Some animals even emit unique noises that were created with the use of a synthesizer, adding an extra layer of unease to the game. In Animal Well, players control a small blob that must navigate through the maze while avoiding being pecked or mauled to death by the other creatures. Despite being at the bottom of the food chain, the blob is waterproof, which comes in handy when exploring the many caverns and chambers of the well.

As players progress through the game, they may come across other animals that can be helpful, such as giant muskrats that serve as footstools and ghost doves that prevent players from falling. However, most creatures in Animal Well are indifferent to the blob's presence, adding to the sense of isolation and insignificance. One of the most intriguing aspects of Animal Well is its lack of hand-holding.

The game does not provide any clear instructions or hints on how to progress, leaving players to figure things out on their own. This can be both frustrating and rewarding, as players must use their own wit and experimentation to solve the game's puzzles. Speaking of puzzles, the reader recalls a particularly challenging one that involved a staircase and two levers.

After spending a good amount of time trying to figure it out, he eventually realized that he needed an item called the disc to solve it. This is just one example of how Animal Well rewards players for their persistence and problem-solving skills. The reader admits to seeking help and watching expert playthroughs to progress through the game.

However, he notes that even with this assistance, he still had to perform all the actions himself, making the experience just as satisfying. Despite its challenging gameplay, Animal Well never made the reader rage quit. He was constantly in awe of the game's clever use of light and the lantern, a tool that reveals hidden areas and temporarily wards off ghosts.

He also warns against messing with the ghost dog, a powerful creature that players should avoid at all costs. In summary, Animal Well is a game that revels in mystery and rewards experimentation. With its eerie atmosphere, clever puzzles, and unpredictable wildlife, it's a game that will keep players on their toes.

So if you ever come across this hidden gem, remember these tips: look for four flames, beware of the ghost dog, and always keep an eye out for unexplored areas. Happy gaming!