Baba Is You: Game Is Good

The Steam Summer Sale is in full swing this year leading to me to cave in to my temptation and buying the critically acclaimed puzzle game, Baba Is You. On Steam, the game has overwhelmingly positive reviews as well as plenty of recommendations from my friends. I heard it was a lot harder than the typical puzzler, and after playing the game for 6 hours (and counting), I’ve decided to share some casual first impressions on the game.

If you’re reading this there’s a chance you’re unfamiliar with the game. Normally, I’d try to describe the mechanics of the game but after attempting several times I’ve decided it’s borderline impossible. It’s not even that complex of a concept to grasp, but describing it using words is too difficult a task. You move words and objects around and use those words and objects to beat the level by putting them in different orders. Still confused? Thought so. Here’s a short trailer that shows the general idea of how the game works:

The “puzzles” shown in the trailer are very simplistic but I’m sure you can imagine how complicated each level can get the further you get into the game. In most puzzlers, there’s usually a clear goal from the beginning. Portal for example – Open the end door, go through it, you win. In this, anything could be the goal, and it’s up to you to work out how you can get it – and more often than not, it’s not what it seems. I love that part of the game as it makes you think; spending a good 20 minutes on one puzzle, only to suddenly come up with the solution, trying it out, and then it working perfectly – It’s incredibly satisfying.

The soundtrack is pretty relaxing, and nothing too bombastic that would impede your thinking. In fact, I’d say it helps and prevents you from getting frustrated. The pixel-art style is pretty unique when it comes to that kind of simplicity, each sprite animated differently – It’s oozing with charm.

Overall, this is a game I’m going to be playing for a long time. The difficulty is a good selling point as it makes solving the puzzles all the more satisfying. I’m only 6 hours in, but I know I’ll be playing it for many more. Right now if I had to slap a rating on the game, it’s a solid 9/10. If you have a PC or Switch, I’d recommend picking this game up, even if it means doing a couple of puzzles a day. Relaxing, satisfying – What else do you need?