Return of the Obra Dinn

Last updated: 2025-12-20
Summary
  • Exceptional puzzle and deduction mechanics
  • Unique and immersive gameplay loop
  • Rich narrative and striking art style
  • Poor accessibility for disabilities
  • Slow and tedious gameplay pacing
  • Steep initial learning curve
Return of the Obra Dinn header

Categories

Deductive Reasoning PuzzleFirst-Person PerspectiveInvestigative GameplayNon-linear StorytellingEnvironmental StorytellingPuzzle SolvingSingle-playerMystery

Emotions

Satisfaction19%Frustration14%Admiration9%Excitement7%Enjoyment7%
Sample precision
Helpful reviews
54%
Unhelpful reviews
46%
Protest reviews
0%
Positive points
887
Negative points
320
Gameplay points
733
Perf. points
14
Rec. points
125
Misc points
21
Point
Exceptional puzzle and deduction mechanics
Description
The game is widely praised for its engaging and satisfying puzzle-solving mechanics, which are described as challenging yet rewarding. Players highlight the thrill of logical deduction and the sense of accomplishment from solving puzzles.
Importance
99%
Unique and immersive gameplay loop
Description
The game features a distinctive gameplay loop that involves revisiting crime scenes, piecing together clues, and solving interconnected mysteries. This mechanic is praised for its innovation and depth, making the experience feel fresh and engaging.
Importance
82%
Satisfying progression and payoff
Description
The game is praised for its satisfying progression, where solving puzzles and uncovering the story provides a strong sense of accomplishment. Players enjoy the gradual reveal of the narrative and the rewarding feeling of connecting clues.
Importance
42%
Rich narrative and storytelling
Description
The game's story is described as captivating, immersive, and well-written, with a unique structure that unfolds gradually. Players appreciate the depth of character development and the emotional investment in solving the mysteries.
Importance
36%
Striking retro-inspired art style
Description
The game's visuals are highly praised for their unique 1-bit black-and-white aesthetic, which enhances immersion and fits the game's setting. The retro style is described as nostalgic, effective, and visually intriguing.
Importance
34%
Immersive sound design and music
Description
The soundtrack and sound effects are noted for their ability to enhance the game's atmosphere and immersion. The music is described as fitting, memorable, and complementary to the gameplay experience.
Importance
30%
Strong emotional and intellectual engagement
Description
Players report a strong emotional connection to the characters and story, as well as intellectual satisfaction from solving the mysteries. The game's narrative and puzzles linger in the mind, affecting daily life and encouraging discussion.
Importance
27%
High replayability and depth
Description
The game encourages replayability through its interconnected clues, multiple deduction paths, and the ability to experience the story differently (e.g., gender changes). Players find it enjoyable to revisit for 100% completion or to rediscover the narrative.
Importance
25%
Well-developed characters and relationships
Description
The game features 60 interconnected characters, each with unique traits, backstories, and relationships. Players appreciate the depth of character development and the satisfaction of piecing together their fates through logical deduction.
Importance
25%