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Writer's pictureGuilherme Ribeiro

Review: Viewfinder



Every image is powerful, but in Viewfinder, it is essential.



THE GAME


Viewfinder is a puzzle game developed by Sad Owl Studios and distributed by Thunderful Publishing. In a world where a climate disaster has occurred that has devastated every source of oxygen on the planet, our character explores a simulation that seeks a way to revitalize plant life on Earth. With the help of the charismatic cat Cait, an artificial intelligence in the simulation, the objective is to look for clues for research that will help the planet. To do this, you will need to go through several puzzles that use the mechanics of this simulation, using photos and images.


Use photos and images to further your mission.
Use photos and images to further your mission.

MY IMPRESSIONS


Lately, playing puzzle games, I've been really disappointed. Whether due to the fluctuating difficulty or poorly executed mechanics. In Viewfinder, it was very different. I was excited to play and keep playing. We can say that the challenges are relatively easy, however, they use their mechanics masterfully. It is pleasant and rewarding to solve the puzzles. Even though the game has a correct way of reaching the final result, the feeling is that you can try different things and they will work too.


The game is in Portuguese-Brazil, which helps to understand more about the story, told through Cait the cat and various audio fragments found throughout the levels. The story itself doesn't influence the gameplay that much, but it's interesting and has a chilling ending. The game's art is very beautiful and the soundtrack follows the rhythm that the game needs.


The main mechanics of the game are very fun and original, reminiscent of games like Portal and Superliminal. That feeling of an unknown world in which creativity is your driving force is a good feeling of newness, but it also leaves you feeling empty. The way you solve challenges is simple, but creative. For me, in this aspect, the only flaw is that the game has few phases.


Without a doubt, Viewfinder is a very fun game and worth playing. For those looking for a great challenge, you may be disappointed, but for those who like puzzles with unique mechanics and without having to rack their brains, Viewfinder is perfect.


The lovely Cait.
The lovely Cait.

ACHIEVEMENTS


I recommend playing Viewfinder from beginning to end without worrying about achievements. Complete the game and then chase them. I say this because the game itself is quick to finish, which makes it easier to just focus on the achievements later. However, if you want to do everything in just one run, it's totally possible. Pay attention to the collectibles that are hidden in some levels. Some will be more hidden than others, so explore everything the levels offer you. Additionally, there are specific action achievements that can be performed in some phases. However, I continue with my recommendation: finish the game and then go after 100%, it will be much easier and more objective.


Things can get chaotic.
Things can get chaotic.

CONCLUSION


Viewfinder was a breath of fresh air for me. A relaxing, fun and creative puzzle game. It was a pleasure to play, so much so that I didn't even notice time passing while I was playing, either because of its gameplay or because it was so short. Don't be fooled by the fact that solving the challenges seems easy, you'll still have fun and think hard to complete some stages. And the game doesn't rush you, it lets you explore and enjoy every moment. I thought the ending was really cool, even though I wasn't that involved with the story.


I highly recommend playing Viewfinder. It's a cool and fun experience, but short, which can be both good and bad. I love games in this style and that are bold in their mechanics. I don't know if there is room for a sequel, as the ending closes the game well, but there is that desire to play more and be more challenged within this simulation.


SCORE: 8.0/10

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