Review of Blue Prince

It’s almost astonishing how frequently new roguelike games hit the shelves, yet each brings a fresh twist to the adrenaline-pumping genre. “Blue Prince” has emerged as a delightful blend of roguelike mechanisms infused with first-person puzzle-solving, creating a masterpiece experience. In simple terms, “Blue Prince” ranks among the finest in both the roguelike genre and puzzle games.

Taking on the persona of Simon P. Jones, players are thrust into a world where they might inherit a mansion from their late uncle—only, there’s a twist. The mansion’s layout morphs daily, and Simon must determine the placement of each room. His ultimate mission? To uncover Room 46 by conquering puzzles, acquiring resources, and cracking the mansion’s enigmatic secrets. The game is a genius concoction of simplicity and intricacy, offering challenges that are demanding yet invitingly accessible.

Every new game in “Blue Prince” kicks off in the Entrance Hall, presenting players with three doors. What awaits them? That’s in their hands. They can choose from three possible rooms, each color-coded for clarity. Every space holds its value—bedrooms might let Simon regain some of those precious daily steps, while a Den is sure to house a gem. Strategic planning is crucial here, as the room configuration can be a maze of dead-ends or pathways that lead to more opportunities.

Most of the rooms shower players with benefits—be it a collectible gold coin or a key. But watch out for those pesky red rooms! These areas, like the Chapel or Dark Room, can disrupt progress, either costing players coins or leaving them in the dark about their next move. Yet, navigating through these obstacles often opens up new paths, promising multiple exits that may be just the ticket to Room 46.

Some puzzles, sprawling across multiple rooms, might have players jotting down notes, while others, such as those found in the Billiards Room or the Parlor, are neatly self-contained. These puzzles challenge players with math and logic, respectively. While the core idea of these challenges remains constant, their difficulty scales up with every run, ensuring that gameplay stays fresh and engaging.

When “Blue Prince” launched, it was a hit on PS Plus Extra and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate/PC Game Pass, making it widely accessible. As players dive deeper into the mansion’s mysteries, the array of rooms broadens, presenting increasingly tricky challenges like locked doors and gem-requiring rooms. Resources are limited, necessitating careful room selection. Even a seemingly unhelpful closet could yield valuable items later, tipping the scales in players’ favor.

Like many roguelikes, luck plays its part in “Blue Prince,” but players can also tilt the odds with strategic choices. Without giving too much away, let’s just say that there are permanent rewards that enhance gameplay, helping players overcome the inevitable hurdles that come their way.

Admittedly, “Blue Prince” might not catch your interest immediately on paper. But once you experience it, you’ll find it nearly impossible to step away. Its “just one more run” appeal is irresistible, with the satisfaction of solving mysteries deeply rewarding. The game is welcoming to both casual and die-hard puzzle enthusiasts, providing enough of a challenge without being daunting. Even beyond the main mission of reaching Room 46, there’s a world of puzzles and secrets waiting to be discovered.

With a cel-shaded art style that elevates every room visually, “Blue Prince” is a feast for the eyes. Room placement can affect aesthetics too—hallways on the mansion’s edge come with views of the yard, showcasing the game’s attention to detail. This artistic flair, combined with a captivating soundtrack, crafts an atmosphere reminiscent of gaming classics like “What Remains of Edith Finch” and “Gone Home,” drawing players in with its haunting yet comforting vibes.

After spending a solid 17 hours navigating toward “Blue Prince’s” conclusion, the game continues to offer more discoveries, enough to keep anyone coming back for countless more hours. And with stories sprinkled throughout the mansion, players can dive as deep as they like into its lore, unraveling tales of the estate and its dwellers.

The more you play “Blue Prince,” the deeper you’ll fall into its charm. Each newfound item or puzzle solution brings a rush, prompting further exploration and rewarding those eager to uncover its secrets. It’s not just a game; it’s an experience—and one that puzzle fans shouldn’t miss. With its delightful union of roguelike tension and cerebral challenges, “Blue Prince” is undeniably a must-play for anyone who values discovery and mystery.