October 2nd 2023.
Cocoon - a strange and captivating puzzle adventure that could be the best indie game of the year. From the makers of Limbo and Inside, Cocoon offers puzzles that are satisfying and not overwhelmingly difficult. With no text or dialogue, the game relies on the environments and atmosphere to provide all the information you need.
You take control of a small nameless character who travels through surreal landscapes in search of glowing orbs. By pressing and holding the interaction button, you can explore the world within and solve its puzzles. If you tap the button, you can pick up and move orbs to new locations. With this simple two-stage interaction, Cocoon offers an impressive depth and variety of challenges.
The robotic and organic environments are an artful blend. As you solve puzzle elements, you can watch the world's metal stalks and fronds grow and unfurl in a plant-like manner. You'll need to do this often to activate gates, catapults, lifts, bridges, and columns of gas as you progress.
The puzzles often rely on changes of state, such as from open to closed or gas to solid. These are triggered using specific-coloured orbs which you find as you explore. Place one in the ground and dive in to solve its puzzles, then use the internal space to store and transport orbs.
Despite the complexity of some puzzles, solutions tend to come to you naturally. Cocoon has an amazing way of locking you into a small area with the problem you’re solving, preventing distractions and helping you to work things out with the only relevant variables. In addition, the game is played with a joystick and single button, and there are no platforming or dexterity tests.
You'll also face boss battles, which are more like puzzles than traditional battles. Here, you must learn the attack patterns and weaknesses of your giant foes, and exploit them without making mistakes. These fights are inventive and come with their own unique ideas and solutions.
Like Journey or RiME, Cocoon's peaceful exploration of its enigmatic world is a great escape. There are frequent moments of frustration, but the lack of time limit creates a pleasant, unhurried pace that allows you to take your time and figure things out. The game is not long, but its consistent challenge, charming design, and sense of discovery make it a rewarding experience. With gorgeous set pieces, joyous breakthroughs, and a lingering sense of mystery, Cocoon is a must-play game.
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