Teslagrad is a 2D puzzle platformer game from the developer Rain Games. It is complex enough to keep you interested, but not so complex that you would give up.
In this game, you are a young boy on the run in a world with a tyrant-king. You must use your electromagnetic powers to go through the game and the Tesla Tower. By touching a certain creature, you can get an electromagnetic orb around you that helps you connect to a certain color and helps you progress though the game. There are sometimes even paintings on the walls to show you what you are supposed to do in a scene. (Especially when you get a new items). These are not annoying like some tutorials may be, but it is very helpful. The setting is old Europe with beautiful hand-drawn scenes and graphics. My favorite being this scene with the beautiful stained glass:
In the first scene, you are running from men in red. If they catch you, you have to start over at the last checkpoint. They can be fast, but you quickly learn how to be faster and avoid them (though in some cases, them spotting you is inevitable). The next scenes are largely puzzle based, and force you to not only use coordination skill, but analyzing skills to figure out what needs to be done to make it through a room. And with difficult (because you have to figure out the right technique to kill them) bosses included, the game almost never has a dull moment. I got so distracted by how fun the game was, that I was almost late for work!
On of my favorite aspects of this game is the silent story-line. There are no text boxes, and no vocals in the game at all. There is a great, exciting story-line, but it is shown- instead of told. I find it really beautiful and creative, the way they can convey an entire story throughout the game with no verbiage and only one cutscene in the very beginning of the game. This way, you can just play through the game with no interruptions, and that is really nice sometimes.
Speaking of sound, the music in the game is spectacular. I love the classical orchestra with a bit of electronic and even slight Russian influence. I could listen to the soundtrack any time- it is so relaxing. But at the same time, at some parts it even sounds a little eerie (typically going with the feel of the scene) which really sets the mood. I like the slightly eerie feel and I think it makes the game more exciting.
THE RECOMMENDATION
Personally, I really really liked this game. It is addicting, fun, and the scenery and music are mesmerizing. The intense detail in the sets and the simplicity of the silent storyline make the game incredibly unique. If you like puzzle/platform games, you will love this game. And if you don’t like puzzle/platform games, this game may change your mind! This game is available at the eShop for $14.99 and well worth it!