Summary

Release Year: 2014
Genres: Adventure, Indie
Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
Developers: Oruji Productions
Publishers: Oruji Productions

Bliss (2014): A Hauntingly Beautiful Puzzle Platformer

Bliss is a 2014 puzzle platformer game developed by The Chinese Room and published by Sega. The game follows the story of a shadow trapped in a strange world constructed from someone’s memories. The world is infected with dark creatures that the player must remove before they can proceed. To their disposal, the player has a boomerang and a stopwatch that can freeze time.

Bliss is a unique and atmospheric game that has been praised for its beautiful visuals, challenging puzzles, and thought-provoking story. The game has been compared to other classic puzzle platformers such as Braid and Limbo, but it also has its own unique identity.

Gameplay

The gameplay in Bliss is simple but challenging. The player controls a shadow that can move around the environment and interact with objects. The player’s main weapon is a boomerang that can be used to defeat enemies and solve puzzles. The player also has a stopwatch that can freeze time for a short period of time.

The puzzles in Bliss are varied and clever. The player must use their boomerang and stopwatch to overcome obstacles, defeat enemies, and progress through the game. The puzzles are not always easy, but they are always fair and rewarding.

Story

The story in Bliss is told through a series of vignettes that are scattered throughout the game. The player learns about the world and its inhabitants through these vignettes. The story is open to interpretation, but it is clear that the game is about the power of memory and the importance of facing our past.

Visuals and Atmosphere

The visuals in Bliss are stunning. The game’s world is a surreal and dreamlike place that is both beautiful and haunting. The game’s use of light and shadow is particularly effective, and it creates a truly immersive atmosphere.

The atmosphere in Bliss is one of mystery and intrigue. The player is never quite sure what is going on or what to expect. This sense of uncertainty adds to the game’s appeal and makes it a truly memorable experience.

Music and Sound Design

The music and sound design in Bliss are excellent. The game’s soundtrack is haunting and atmospheric, and it perfectly complements the game’s visuals and gameplay. The sound effects are also top-notch, and they help to create a truly immersive experience.

Overall

Bliss is a beautiful, challenging, and thought-provoking puzzle platformer. The game’s unique visuals, clever puzzles, and intriguing story make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score: 9/10

Pros:

Beautiful and atmospheric visuals
Clever and challenging puzzles
Intriguing story
Excellent music and sound design

Cons:

Some of the puzzles can be frustrating
The game is relatively short

Verdict

Bliss is a must-play for fans of puzzle platformers. The game’s unique visuals, clever puzzles, and intriguing story make it a truly memorable experience.