Cosy games have become a dominant part of gaming culture, but what happens when counter-culture becomes culture? In a world where violence and conflict are the norm, cosy games emerged as a respite, prioritizing stories that minimize conflict and focus on growth and creation. However, as the popularity of these games grew, some of them failed to understand that a player’s desire for softness and kindness does not mean they want a completely toothless game. Challenge is not conflict; challenge is fun.
One game that understands this balance is Botany Manor. This game goes beyond just growing plants and delves into real-world topics such as sexism in academia and a woman’s limited rights in the late Victorian era. It challenges players to think, engage, and struggle, all while emphasizing the themes of growth, cultivation, and perseverance.
At first glance, Botany Manor may seem derivative, with similarities to games like The Witness and StreetPass Garden. However, as you delve deeper into the game, its distinct qualities emerge. The thoughtful and beautiful lighting, varied typefaces, and cohesive environmental design set it apart from its counterparts. While the game mechanics may resemble those of other plant-growing games, each plant in Botany Manor has unique requirements that require clever puzzle-solving skills.
Unlike some cosy puzzle games that lose their appeal as the difficulty rises, Botany Manor maintains its integrity throughout. The later puzzles may require a lot of clues and cross-referencing, as well as small leaps of logic, but that’s where the fun lies. The clues feel grounded in the narrative, and the game designers have cleverly made everything make sense. It’s a refreshing change from games that resort to clumsy hints or illogical puzzle solutions.
Although the game’s length is around four hours, it provides a solid experience of exploration and deep thinking. Any longer, and it runs the risk of becoming a frustrating maze. However, even within this timeframe, players may find themselves occasionally getting lost or forgetting where they found specific clues. While the book in the game helps with maps and clue locations, it can still be a puzzle in itself trying to figure out your exact position.
One minor drawback of Botany Manor is the inability to document things more thoroughly. While the book records the name and location of each clue, players may have difficulty recalling the details. Taking personal notes can help mitigate this issue, but it does require some additional effort.
Despite this small setback, Botany Manor is a genuine pleasure to spend time in. It poses puzzles that challenge players in a way that cosy games haven’t done in a long time. The developers at Balloon Studios have crafted a game that effortlessly combines unique aesthetics with challenging gameplay. It will be exciting to see what they have in store for future projects.
Looking at the broader implications of Botany Manor and its success, it is evident that the cosy game movement has paved the way for more diverse and nuanced storytelling in the gaming industry. This shift highlights the growing demand for games that prioritize personal growth, emotional depth, and thought-provoking narratives. It is no longer enough to rely solely on violence and conflict to captivate audiences.
This trend also reflects the changing demographics of gamers, as a wider range of players seek games that cater to their diverse interests and preferences. As the industry continues to evolve, developers should take note of the success of games like Botany Manor, which effectively balance challenge and softness, while tackling important social issues. By providing engaging gameplay experiences that resonate with a broader audience, developers can contribute to a more inclusive and enriching gaming landscape.
In conclusion, Botany Manor is an exceptional example of a cosy game that offers both challenge and softness. With its thoughtfully designed puzzles, engaging narrative, and attention to detail, it stands as a testament to the evolving nature of the gaming industry. As we look ahead to future trends, it is clear that games like Botany Manor will continue to shape the industry, inspiring developers to create more diverse, meaningful, and enjoyable gaming experiences for players worldwide.