It’s no secret that everyone’s trying to curate their life to be as “aesthetic” as possible, so why not apply the same logic to the games you play on your devices? While we’re not going to deny that games like Fallout 4 and the Bioshock series definitely take the cake for fun and game design, it’s definitely difficult to lug a full console system on all our journeys to and from home. So here are some of the prettiest game apps we’ve been able to get our hands on – but beware, their beautiful designs didn’t compromise their difficulty:
*****
Monument Valley
If you’re a fan of mind-bending geometry, particularly the Penrose triangle a.k.a. the impossible triangle, then you’ll absolutely adore Monument Valley. The great thing about this game is that you find yourself applying similar lessons in perspective in your daily life once you’re done playing: nothing really is what it seems. With paths that twist into different dimensions, gravity-defying characters (literally), and gorgeous architecture, it’s hard not to fall in love with the world of Monument Valley and its silent princess, Ada. Oh, and there’s even a screenshot function for you to add to your collection of awesome wallpapers.
Monument Valley, developed by ustwo games, $4.89 – $5.98 (excluding in-app purchases), available on the App Store and Google play.
Botanicula
Remember A Bug’s Life? This game is similar, only the bugs are a lot weirder (and cuter), and the soundscape is also amazing. Seriously, for a game that has no text at all, you’ll be surprised at how comprehensive Botanicula is. Don’t be fooled when it comes to the puzzles, though: it can take a little bit of exploration to figure it out. But hey, no pain no gain. After all, you’ve got five small but terribly brave friends to help you along the way.
Botanicula, developed by Amanita Design, $4.99 – $5.99 (excluding in-app purchases), available on the App Store and Google play.
Tarot
If you’re a fan of having your future read and/or contemporary art, Contemporary Magic: A Tarot Deck Art Project a.k.a. Tarot is practically made for you. Designed with the collaboration of world-famous artists, each card has been specifically curated and created just for the app, in accordance with the tarot card assigned to them. The result? A deck that is incredibly whimsical, educational and not to mention, free. The app also supports an auction to help fund the placement of an anniversary print edition in the permanent collection at the Andy Warhol Museum!
So, are you ready to gaze into your future?
Tarot, developed by Two Dots, free, available on the App Store (iPhone only).
Machinarium
Okay, we can’t help but be a little biased with Amanita Design, but can you even blame us? If Botanicula seemed a little too “organic” for you, they’ve got your back covered with Machinarium. Its post-apocalyptic, steampunk-esque design is charming and intriguing, especially considering it’s a point-and-click game. There’s no telling what you can and can’t do with each new puzzle, especially when you’ve got a robot to help you through it all. Maybe everything isn’t as gloomy as it seems.
Machinarium, developed by Amanita Design, $4.99 – $6.98 (excluding in-app purchases), available on the App Store and Google play.
Limbo
Isn’t it a bit early for horror games? you may say. Never! we cry. Especially not this one. Don’t worry, you won’t find any jump-scares here, but Limbo‘s black-and-white design definitely brings home the creepy factor. Add in a few weird monsters, deadly traps, glowing eyes, and one boy who just wants to find his sister, and you’ve got a game that’s both brilliant in its simplicity and equally haunting. Timing is key in this game, but hey, you’re already in limbo. It’s not like you can die…right?
LIMBO, developed by Playdead, from $6.88, available on Google play and on Xbox One.
Featured Image: Botanicula
You must be logged in to post a comment.