Incredible linguistics based interaction with the world, reminiscent of late game Fez which I regard highly. Context, observation, imagination all working together. Very clean user experience with no need for external programs to solve the world around you BUT I wish it were fully diegetic, getting rid of "validating glyphs" through your book but I can see how it'd be very hostile to many people interested in this. Still very enjoyable and I hope it sparks the creation of more games like this.

Amazing first half but starts falling apart after Hokkaido, sacrificing continuing the Looking Glass design legacy for linear, uninspired and borderline frustrating set pieces (screw Seoul and the second half of Bathhouse). Nevertheless, its strong highlights keep it up there with the stealth genre's greatest.

Plus half star for spies vs mercs and co-op (rip)