Proverbs
" Engaging casual puzzle with unique picross-minesweeper blend but a steep price "
Proverbs Review
Proverbs is a relaxing and meditative mosaic puzzle game that blends elements of Minesweeper, Picross, and nonogram-style logic puzzles. Players solve an enormous grid divided into smaller regions, revealing pixelated reproductions of Pieter Bruegel the Elder's 1559 painting "Netherlandish Proverbs." Each completed section unveils a related medieval proverb, adding a charming educational layer. The gameplay is praised for being logical, with no guessing required, making it accessible and satisfying for puzzle enthusiasts. The soundtrack, featuring Renaissance-style lute and guitar music, complements the calming atmosphere, though some note the presence of AI-generated tracks.
Players appreciate the game's pacing, allowing for both short bursts and long sessions, and its Steam Deck compatibility. Some minor technical issues include occasional Steam Cloud sync problems and a desire for more visual polish or confetti rewards. Overall, Proverbs delivers a chill yet engaging puzzle experience with a unique artistic and cultural twist.
Highlights
Players highly praise Proverbs for its logical, guess-free gameplay that combines Minesweeper and Picross mechanics into a satisfying puzzle experience.
The artistic presentation of unveiling a massive pixelated Renaissance painting and the inclusion of historical proverbs enrich the story and provide educational value.
The relaxing soundtrack featuring lute and guitar music enhances the meditative vibe, and the game's design supports both casual and extended play sessions.
Steam Deck compatibility and intuitive controls are also appreciated by the community.
Criticisms
Some players find the game's price a bit high given the relatively simple graphics and puzzle complexity.
There are occasional technical issues such as Steam Cloud synchronization problems when switching devices.
The soundtrack quality is uneven due to some AI-generated music tracks.
A few users wished for additional gameplay features like flagging or more detailed visuals in smaller puzzle regions.
Some felt the puzzle could drag in later stages, and a confetti or celebratory effect after completing puzzles was missed by some.
Pros
- • Engaging logic puzzles with no guessing required, perfect for puzzle fans.
- • Unique blend of Minesweeper and Picross mechanics creates fresh gameplay.
- • Revealing pixel art tied to historical proverbs adds cultural depth.
- • Relaxing and well-composed Renaissance-inspired soundtrack enhances immersion.
- • Supports both short and long play sessions with bite-sized puzzle regions.
- • Steam Deck compatibility offers portable, low-stress gaming experience.
- • Intuitive controls and satisfying haptic feedback during gameplay.
Cons
- • Price considered a bit steep relative to puzzle complexity and graphics.
- • Occasional Steam Cloud sync issues when playing across multiple devices.
- • Some music tracks are AI-generated, leading to uneven audio quality.
- • Lack of flagging feature limits ease of marking uncertain tiles.
- • Smaller puzzle regions sometimes lack visual detail or clarity.
- • No celebratory effects like confetti after puzzle completion.
- • Puzzle difficulty can feel low and drag in later stages.
Rating Criteria
Proverbs is a picross/minesweeper hybrid featuring a single ENORMOUS puzzle, inspired by Bruegel the Elder's 1559 painting "Netherlandish Proverbs"