Monument Valley - Anniversary Edition: Art Gallery - A Review

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Introduction

Monument Valley is a game that redefined mobile gaming with its breathtaking visuals, intricate puzzles, and dreamlike storytelling. Since its initial release in 2014, it has captivated millions with its Escher-inspired architecture and serene atmosphere. The Anniversary Edition, released to celebrate its legacy, includes an all-new Art Gallery feature, offering fans a deeper dive into the game’s creative process.

In this review, we’ll explore the Art Gallery in Monument Valley - Anniversary Edition, analyzing its content, presentation, and overall value for both longtime fans and newcomers.

The Essence of Monument Valley

Before diving into the Art Gallery, it’s essential to understand what makes Monument Valley so special. The game follows Princess Ida as she navigates impossible geometry, manipulating structures to create new paths. Its minimalist storytelling, combined with a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, creates an experience that feels more like interactive art than a traditional puzzle game.

The Anniversary Edition not only includes the original game and its Forgotten Shores expansion but also introduces new behind-the-scenes content—most notably, the Art Gallery.

Exploring the Art Gallery

1. Concept Art & Early Sketches

The Art Gallery is a treasure trove for fans who appreciate the game’s artistic evolution. It features:

Early character designs – See how Princess Ida and other characters evolved from rough sketches to their final, elegant forms.
Unused level concepts – Discover abandoned ideas that didn’t make it into the final game, offering insight into the developers' creative choices.
Color palettes & mood boards – Understand how the team crafted the game’s ethereal aesthetic.

These pieces are presented in high resolution, allowing players to zoom in and appreciate the fine details.

2. Developer Commentary

One of the most compelling aspects of the Art Gallery is the inclusion of developer notes. The team at ustwo games shares anecdotes about:

Technical challenges (e.g., designing impossible geometry that still feels intuitive).
Narrative inspirations (how silence and minimalism shaped the story).
Musical collaboration (how the soundtrack by Stafford Bawler complements the visuals).

This commentary adds depth, making the Art Gallery more than just a collection of images—it’s a storytelling experience.

3. Interactive Elements

Unlike static art books, the Art Gallery includes interactive previews of certain levels, allowing players to see how early sketches translated into gameplay. Some sections even let users toggle between concept art and the final in-game version, highlighting the meticulous refinement process.

Presentation & User Experience

The Art Gallery is seamlessly integrated into the game’s menu, maintaining Monument Valley’s signature aesthetic. Navigation is intuitive, with a clean, minimalist interface that mirrors the game’s design philosophy.

However, one minor critique is that some sections feel slightly text-heavy. While the insights are valuable, a few more visual or animated breakdowns could enhance engagement.

Is It Worth It?

For new players, the Art Gallery is a fantastic bonus, enriching the overall experience. For longtime fans, it’s a nostalgic journey that deepens appreciation for the game’s craftsmanship.

That said, if you’re expecting brand-new gameplay content, this isn’t the focus of the Art Gallery. It’s purely a celebration of the game’s artistry—so temper expectations accordingly.

Final Verdict

The Art Gallery in Monument Valley - Anniversary Edition is a must-explore for anyone who admires game design as an art form. It offers a rare glimpse into the creative process behind one of mobile gaming’s most visually stunning titles. While it doesn’t add new puzzles or levels, it reinforces why Monument Valley remains a masterpiece.

Rating: 9/10