Viewfinder
" Innovative adventure indie with unique photo puzzles and relaxing atmosphere but short length "
Viewfinder Review
Viewfinder is a visually stunning and innovative first-person puzzle game centered around a unique photo-based mechanic that allows players to manipulate the environment by placing photographs as real objects. The gameplay is generally praised for its creativity and cleverness, offering a relaxing yet engaging experience with puzzles that encourage out-of-the-box thinking.
However, the game is relatively short, averaging around 4 to 5 hours to complete, with some players feeling the content and challenge do not fully justify the full price. The story attempts to add depth and emotional weight, touching on themes like climate change and memory, but many players found it uninspiring, repetitive, or disconnected from the gameplay. Voice acting received mixed reactions, with some recommending muting it to enhance enjoyment. Despite these flaws, the game’s artistic design, atmosphere, and inventive mechanics have earned it a strong recommendation, especially when purchased on sale.
Highlights
Players consistently praise Viewfinder's innovative gameplay mechanics, particularly the photo manipulation that transforms 2D images into 3D objects, creating "aha!" moments reminiscent of classics like Portal.
The game boasts beautiful, unique art and architecture, with shifting graphic styles and atmospheric environments that invite exploration. The soundtrack and ambient sounds complement the relaxing vibe.
While the story is divisive, many appreciate its subtlety and thematic ambition, with some finding emotional resonance and thoughtful narrative elements. The presence of a cat companion (CAIT) is a charming highlight.
Overall, the game is celebrated as a creative, mind-bending puzzle experience with a cozy, immersive atmosphere.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the short length and limited content, with many players feeling the game is more of a polished demo or tech showcase than a full-fledged title.
The story and voice acting received mixed to negative feedback; many found the narrative disconnected from gameplay, repetitive, or dull, and voice acting annoying enough to warrant muting.
Some puzzles were considered too easy or underutilized the innovative mechanics, leading to a lack of challenge for experienced players.
Additionally, certain gameplay elements like distance gauging and a sudden timed platforming section near the end were criticized for being frustrating or out of place.
The price at full retail was often deemed too high given the game's scope.
Pros
- • Innovative photo-based puzzle mechanics create unique gameplay experiences.
- • Beautiful and varied art style with impressive architectural design.
- • Relaxing atmosphere complemented by soothing soundtrack and ambient sounds.
- • Engaging puzzles that encourage creative problem-solving and exploration.
- • Subtle, thought-provoking story exploring memory and perception themes.
- • Charming companion cat adds warmth and personality to the game.
- • Good pacing with gradual difficulty increase and fresh mechanics introduced.
Cons
- • Game is relatively short, lasting around 4-5 hours on average.
- • Story is often seen as uninspiring, disconnected, or repetitive.
- • Voice acting is frequently criticized and may detract from immersion.
- • Puzzles are generally easy and may not challenge experienced players.
- • Some gameplay elements, like distance gauging, can feel wonky.
- • Sudden timed platforming section near the end frustrates some players.
- • Heavy reuse of assets reduces variety in environments.
Rating Criteria
Challenge perception, redefine reality, and reshape the world around you with an instant camera. Viewfinder is a new single player game offering gamers hours of interesting and fun experiences while uncovering the mysteries left behind.
