Aarik and the Ruined Kingdom is an intriguing perspective-based puzzle game offered by indie developer Shatterproof Games. The story revolves around Aarik, a young prince faced with a kingdom that’s seen better days. With his father bedridden and his mother missing, Aarik’s challenges become the player’s adventure, leading him through isometric levels that cleverly twist and turn, revealing new paths forward with the aid of the king’s crown.
Throughout the game, Aarik gains special crystals that grant him new powers for his journey. These crystals, appearing in four distinct colors, each unlock unique abilities like turning back time to mend destroyed structures, moving towers, or controlling robotic allies to crack various puzzles. These skills not only keep the puzzles fresh but also divide the game into clear segments.
The game offers a soothing experience, with its cozy atmosphere reflected through a relaxing soundtrack and straightforward puzzles. They’re designed to challenge one’s perspective without becoming overly taxing, an intention from Shatterproof Games to ensure Aarik’s journey remains chill and enjoyable. In just about two hours, I completed the adventure without ever feeling truly stuck.
Yet, as much as Aarik’s kingdom promised a tranquil endeavor, a few control issues cropped up. Some powers, like the robot control or the telekinesis, occasionally refused to cooperate, while aligning blocks turned into an exercise in patience. The rewind time ability also acted up, not always aligning paths perfectly for passage. Although these hiccups were minor, they were noticeable enough to slightly detract from the immersive experience.
All in all, Aarik and the Ruined Kingdom is a delightful little adventure perfect for a single session. Its visuals and musical score pair wonderfully with its calm vibe, never overstaying their welcome. While the crystal powers add an exciting twist to the gameplay, the finicky controls can prove to be a slight annoyance.
This review comes from a retail copy of the game provided by the publisher. If you’re looking for a short, laid-back puzzle solver that’s not too taxing but has a few rough edges, Aarik and the Ruined Kingdom might just be your perfect match, earning itself a comfortable 6 out of 10 in this review.
