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Welcome to our regular gameplay impressions and video post where we record our first 10-30 minutes with a new game, and provide some general impressions on that early playthrough. Today’s game is: NaissanceE from developer Limass Five.
At a glance, it would be easy to dismiss NaissanceE as a Portal or Antichamber clone, only without the guns. And while those comparisons are certainly valid, the first person puzzle genre is so narrow that a lot of games will "seem" alike. Even so, where NaissanceE draws its inspiration from should be of little consequence to those who play the game, as this title makes a name for itself with a unique set of rules and a clever art style.
Much like many games of its ilk, NaissanceE chooses not to spell anything out for the player, but instead thrusts them into a black and white world where shadows are everything, not just part of the aesthetic. It doesn't become apparent until about 10 minutes in, but shadow and light actually play a large part in NaissanceE's puzzle mechanics, determining how players can interact with platforms and where they can travel next. Walls and platforms covered in shadow, for example, are transparent, while those bathed in light are solid.
As you can see in the video, NaissanceE's early moments are built on a lot of trial and error, but its ability to communicate new ideas is effective enough to avoid frustration. Granted, it took some getting used to the interplay between light and shadow, but once you get there the possibilities seem endless. Complex might not be the right term, but the game certainly feels smart and thoughtful.
There's no question that NaissanceE will draw players in with its bold art style and borderline obtuse puzzle mechanics, but whether or not it can sustain a full playthrough is unclear. I want to see how those puzzles evolve, no question; but most importantly I want to see whether that initial story tease at the beginning pays off.
Regardless, there aren't too many first person puzzlers out there, which leaves NaissanceE as a solid option based on our initial time with it. The aesthetic is unique, the puzzles are challenging but thoughtful, and the controls are tight. NaissanceE boasts all the qualities that make first person puzzle games appealing.
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What do you think of the look and design of Naissance? Does it look like a game for you?
NaissanceE is available now for $19.99 on Steam.
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