Relicta

Relicta is a first-person puzzle game centered around magnetism and gravity mechanics, offering a substantial amount of content that can take 15 to 46 hours to complete, including two free DLCs. The game features diverse biomes with visually appealing environments and a well-optimized engine that runs smoothly even on older hardware. Players appreciate the challenging puzzles that require logical thinking and planning, often comparing the game to Portal, The Talos Principle, and The Turing Test. However, the gameplay can become tedious due to overly long and repetitive puzzle sequences, invisible walls, and occasional physics inconsistencies.

The narrative attempts to provide context but is widely regarded as weak, with immature writing, excessive swearing, and unlikable characters detracting from the experience. The sprawling hub area and backtracking sections add little value and sometimes frustrate players. Despite these flaws, many recommend Relicta for fans of the genre, especially at discounted prices, praising its unique mechanics and solid puzzle design.

Highlights

Players praise Relicta's unique magnetism and gravity-based puzzle mechanics that offer fresh challenges within large, complex puzzle arenas. The game's visuals and atmospheric biomes are highly regarded, with smooth performance even on modest hardware. The voice acting is generally competent, and the soundtrack and sound design contribute positively to immersion. The inclusion of two free DLCs nearly doubles the content, providing extended gameplay for puzzle enthusiasts. Many find the game's difficulty curve well-paced, with puzzles that encourage logical reasoning over trial and error. Overall, the game delivers a substantial, satisfying puzzle experience reminiscent of classics like Portal and The Talos Principle.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the game's tedious and repetitive puzzles, which often grow longer without increasing in complexity, leading to player fatigue. The physics engine can feel inconsistent, causing frustrating moments where objects behave unpredictably or require precise timing and dexterity. Invisible walls and a sprawling, underutilized hub area detract from exploration and immersion. The story and dialogue are frequently described as immature, cringeworthy, and filled with gratuitous swearing, which many find off-putting. Additionally, the save system lacks mid-puzzle checkpoints, forcing players to redo long sequences after mistakes. Some players also note clunky platforming mechanics and occasional soft-locks, further impacting enjoyment.