"Nature uses only the longest threads to weave her patterns, so that each small piece of her fabric reveals the organization of the entire tapestry."

- Richard Feynman

Despite being a puzzle game, Cocoon seamlessly fits into the realm of sensory exploration experiences, akin to titles like Journey and Sable. As you calmly navigate this world devoid of the fear of death, a dynamic, meditative soundtrack accompanies you, perfectly synchronizing with the textures of your surroundings.

Although a mind-bending, reality-distorting puzzle game, Cocoon is surprisingly frictionless and frustration-free. Most puzzles are solvable relatively quickly, contributing to a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience. However, this ease doesn't detract from the overall quality of the experience. Cocoon's puzzles are well-designed, and the intricate connections between them are impressive and, at times, even staggering.

Video games can often be seen as a language unto themselves. As players navigate the expansive and dynamic gaming landscape, they find a shared lexicon that extends beyond a particular game's specific narrative or aesthetic. Whether one is mastering the art of precision platforming, honing strategic decision-making in a real-time strategy game, or perfecting movement and aim in a first-person shooter, the fundamental principles of play often carry over.

Cocoon is able to gamify this phenomenon by teaching players its language—one they will need to navigate its world and solve its puzzles—all without saying a word.

Ultimately, the game strikes an effective balance between being an easygoing adventure and a showcase of intricate puzzle design.

It's got some killer boss fights, too, if you're into that sort of thing.

Reviewed on Dec 29, 2023


4 Comments


4 months ago

cicadas are pretty cool, they gross looking but in a badass way like monsters from star wars. I feel like Richard freynman would like the big gooba fish.

4 months ago

He actually wrote about big gooba in one of his books I think @brockreiher

4 months ago

Wasn't that Huge-o-Teeth: Essays

4 months ago

I think that's the one