A Masterclass in Puzzle Design
In 1993, a game launched to the world that changed expectations of what video games could be and how they were made. That game was Myst.
It was a puzzle game that told a non-verbal, non-linear story, utilising mind-bending visuals, including cutting-edge 3D-rendered images. It was an experience I didn’t actually get to play until nearly 15 years later.
And now? Well, I have had the opportunity to play an updated version of its sequel, Riven. This new version has been updated for the Xbox Series consoles, complete with modern mechanics and a visual polish. But does it still hold that classic magic?
Riven is a game that demands your attention, your time, and your puzzle-solving ability. It absolutely will not hold your hand, lead you to the next quest objective, or provide helpful markers showing you where to go. It is entirely about exploring, experimenting, and ensuring you have a handy notebook by your side, or perhaps a blackboard if you have a big enough house. If you played Myst back in the day and hated it, then I highly doubt this remake of Riven, even with its new mechanics and easier movement, is going to win you over. But for fans of the original and newcomers eager to give it a try, buckle up and join the adventure.
Uncovering the Deep Lore of the Ages
There is an, um, myth that the world of Myst doesn’t really have a story. This is clearly not the case, for there have even been novels published to expand on the deep lore of these games. The story is there to be found, and in Riven, it begins with a character giving you a clear objective. There are linking books that transport you to new worlds: Ages. The villain of the first game, Gehn, was linked to a world called Riven, where he was supposedly trapped. But things did not go exactly to plan, and Catherine, a hero from Myst, was captured and trapped there as well. The first character you encounter is Atrus; he tasks you with rescuing Catherine and capturing Gehn inside a ‘Trap Book’.
Naturally, this all goes wrong, and you start the game locked in a cell before being released into the vast world of Riven.
Breaking Free
From this point onwards, you are entirely on your own. The story slowly reveals itself, and when it does, it proves to be a satisfying narrative. However, you have to work for it, thoroughly exploring the environment to piece the lore together. I found myself just as engaged with this game as I was with Myst. It is a compelling setting to explore, and this time around, instead of a single location, there is a series of distinct islands connected by a sort of steampunk tram system.
The gameplay is different from the original, fully utilising the power of the Xbox Series consoles. Movement is now entirely free-flowing. You travel around the space in a first-person perspective, completely abandoning the restrictive point-and-click navigation of old. Apparently, there have also been some modern updates and tweaks to the puzzles, though honestly, I couldn’t spot the differences since I can’t quite remember the specific solutions after all these years!
Puzzle-solving is all about taking your time, trying things out, and examining every possible clue in your surroundings. Some challenges require you to move objects or operate levers in a specific sequence. Others are clever sound puzzles that demand careful listening and observation. Then, there are the complex puzzles that will have you constantly cross-referencing the in-game journal alongside the frantic physical notes you have scribbled down yourself. It is going to take a while to solve everything, but that is the inherent beauty of the game. Nothing is trying to kill you, so you can simply relax and take your time.
A Substantial Upgrade
Riven on Xbox Series X|S boasts fantastic visuals that blend classical, industrial, and mystical styles. It is an incredible world to uncover and explore. The visual upgrade is substantial, and the environments look wonderful throughout. The only real caveat is that the characters look a little bit strange, changed from the FMV (full-motion video) captures, and the transition doesn’t quite work. Still, it is a very minor gripe in an otherwise magical world.
The Riven soundtrack by Robyn Miller is present in all its glory, retaining its atmospheric magic. The sound effects are rock solid, and the audio-based puzzles work as a brilliant addition to the experience.
A Masterful Remake
I had a superb time with Riven; my playthrough felt just like catching up with an old friend. The upgrades to the movement, the enhanced visuals, and the tweaked puzzles are sublime. If you loved Myst or the original Riven, this is a must-buy; a wonderful experience held back by only a few minor niggles.
Just be prepared to rely on your own wits, as this journey absolutely refuses to hold your hand.
Important Links
Riven – One Of Gaming’s Greatest Puzzle Adventures Is Back – https://www.thexboxhub.com/riven-one-of-gamings-greatest-puzzle-adventures-is-back/
Buy from the Xbox Store – https://www.xbox.com/en-GB/games/store/riven/9P62C7M1XHW7/0017
