I know how a thumbs down looks but steam only allows two options here. I don't think Animal Well is a bad game but I do think expectations should be tempered, at least for some.

I haven't played Tunic or a lot of other of these layers deep puzzle masterpieces this gets compared to. So a lot of what I have to say comes down to this game not being for me. I gave it a fair shot. I collected the 4 flames but not all the eggs, and I doubt I will.

In my 7 or so hours with the game I never had a moment of satisfaction from any solution. Spoiled by the last 2 Zelda outings I was hoping for a more free form feel to the puzzles. A sense that my solutions weren't intended but still encouraged. The layer of puzzle solving that I got through felt like going through the intended motions similar to any other puzzle game.

It's a dense world too. Each screen wrapping around to some dark corner. It's a exhausting just to get from one point to another, to pick away at walls in hopes a newly acquired tool is the key. Or you'll stumbled into a button you missed, or more frustrating, a hidden opening. I reached a point when I just didn't care to go looking for another egg.

I know the more esoteric and communal puzzles are a joy for some. I'll never find the time or desire to solve them. For my time, and more importantly money, I just didn't find much satisfaction here. There isn't anything here but the puzzles and whatever feelings you get from solving them.

Now I'm gonna go kill some Orks cause I'm a moron.

jajco

child-like wonder..