Quern - Undying Thoughts
Genres: Puzzle, Mystery, Story Rich, Atmospheric, Adventure
Release Date: 28-11-2016
Developer: Zadbox Entertainment
Our verdict
8.5/10
- Difficulty: Hard
- Players: 1
- Playtime: 12–20 h
Quern - Undying Thoughts is a first-person puzzle adventure in the Myst mould. A portal strands you on an island full of machinery, glowing crystals and the notes of a vanished professor, and you work through its contraptions to find a way out. It suits solo players who miss classic Myst and Riven and want a long, demanding puzzle game.
Players almost always compare it to Myst, and most say it holds up well. Reviewers praise the environmental clues and the way mechanics you learn early come back later in new forms. The island's look and music get warm words too. The puzzles range from fair to very tough, and several reviewers admit they looked up one or two answers. One player even shared screens with a friend to solve it together.
The main complaints are backtracking across the island, puzzles that depend on remembering small details from areas you visited long ago, and the lack of any hint system. Expect fifteen hours or more. At its low price, it is an easy buy for Myst fans, but casual puzzlers should keep a guide nearby.
Pros
- Mechanics learned early return in later, harder puzzles
- Island of crystals and machinery with clues woven into the scenery
- Long Myst-style campaign for a very low price
Cons
- Lots of backtracking with few shortcuts
- Some puzzles hinge on tiny details seen hours earlier; no hint system
About
You try to clear your vision and get on your feet after your arrival. You hear the portal closing behind you as you take a step forward. You are trapped, your way back is gone.
Quern - Undying Thoughts is a first-person puzzle adventure game, inviting you on a journey to explore it and solve its challenges. Put your mind to the test with the increasingly complex puzzles, and unravel the mysteries of the island.
Immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery of the island as you discover new places. Follow the hints of the past as you delve deeper into the story to understand the importance of your presence.
