Monument Valley: The Complete Collection - New Puzzles - A Review
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Introduction
Monument Valley, the critically acclaimed puzzle game series by ustwo games, has captivated players with its mesmerizing visuals, soothing soundtrack, and mind-bending architecture. With the release of Monument Valley: The Complete Collection, fans and newcomers alike can experience all the existing content, including the newly added puzzles. This review explores the game’s evolution, gameplay mechanics, artistic brilliance, and whether the new content justifies revisiting this beloved series.
A Brief Overview of Monument Valley
Since its debut in 2014, Monument Valley has redefined mobile gaming with its unique blend of optical illusions, impossible geometry, and serene storytelling. Players guide silent protagonist Ida through beautifully crafted levels inspired by M.C. Escher’s works, manipulating structures to create new pathways.
The original game was followed by Monument Valley 2 (2017), which expanded the narrative and introduced new mechanics, such as controlling two characters simultaneously. Now, The Complete Collection bundles both games along with additional puzzles, offering a fresh experience for returning players.
What’s New in The Complete Collection?
The Complete Collection includes:
- Monument Valley (Original Game + Forgotten Shores DLC) – The game that started it all, featuring 10 core levels and 8 additional chapters from the expansion.
- Monument Valley 2 – A sequel with 14 levels, introducing new characters and deeper storytelling.
- New Puzzles – Exclusive to this collection, these levels introduce fresh mechanics and challenges.
The new puzzles maintain the series’ signature style while incorporating innovative twists. Some levels require players to manipulate time or switch between multiple perspectives, adding complexity without sacrificing accessibility.
Gameplay & Mechanics
Core Mechanics
At its heart, Monument Valley is about perspective. Players rotate platforms, slide panels, and shift structures to create paths where none seem to exist. The new puzzles expand on this by introducing:
- Time-Based Manipulation – Certain objects now change position over time, requiring precise timing.
- Multi-Character Control – Building on Monument Valley 2, some puzzles involve coordinating movements between two or more characters.
- Environmental Interactions – New elements, like movable mirrors and dynamic lighting, alter how players navigate levels.
Difficulty & Accessibility
The game remains approachable for casual players while offering enough depth for puzzle enthusiasts. The new puzzles strike a balance—challenging but never frustrating, thanks to intuitive controls and subtle hints.
Art & Sound Design
Visual Aesthetics
Monument Valley is a masterpiece of minimalist design. The new puzzles retain the series’ dreamlike aesthetic, with soft pastel colors, intricate architecture, and surreal landscapes. Each level feels like a living painting, encouraging players to pause and admire the scenery.
Soundtrack & Ambience
The hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, composed by Stafford Bawler and others, enhances the meditative experience. The new puzzles feature additional ambient tracks that complement the gameplay without overpowering it.
Storytelling & Themes
While Monument Valley is light on dialogue, its storytelling is profound. The original game follows Ida’s journey to restore stolen geometry, while Monument Valley 2 explores themes of motherhood and separation. The new puzzles subtly expand on these narratives, adding layers of emotional depth without explicit exposition.
Is The Complete Collection Worth It?
For New Players
Absolutely. This is the definitive way to experience Monument Valley, offering all content in one package. The puzzles are engaging, the visuals stunning, and the soundtrack unforgettable.
For Returning Fans
The new puzzles provide enough novelty to justify a replay. While not a full sequel, they offer fresh challenges that feel like a natural extension of the series.
Pricing & Availability
The Complete Collection is available on iOS, Android, and PC. Given the amount of content, it’s reasonably priced, especially for those who missed earlier expansions.
Final Verdict
Monument Valley: The Complete Collection is a must-have for puzzle lovers. The new puzzles enhance an already flawless experience, making this the best version of the game yet. Whether you’re a first-time player or a longtime fan, this collection is a journey worth taking.
Rating: 5/5
Tags:
MonumentValley #PuzzleGame #GameReview #MobileGaming #UstwoGames #IndieGames #OpticalIllusions #Gaming #CompleteCollection
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