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Cogs

PlayStation 3, PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux, iOS, Mac, Android • 2009

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Quick resume

Cogs is a puzzle game where players build machines from sliding tiles. Players can choose from 50 levels and 3 gameplay modes. New puzzles are unlocked by building contraptions quickly and efficiently. Inventor Mode: Starting with simple puzzles, players are introduced to the widgets that are used to build machines — gears, pipes,...

Global score

88/100

Genres

Casual, Indie, Puzzle

Pros

  • Challenging and varied puzzles
  • Relaxing steampunk aesthetic
  • Good replayability with multiple modes
  • Well-polished and intuitive controls
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • Timer and move limits can cause frustration
  • Some find puzzles repetitive
  • Lack of widescreen support
  • No multiplayer or social features
  • Music can be monotonous

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players freely choose how to solve puzzles, with multiple approaches and modes allowing self-directed play."

  • Competence
    4

    "Challenging puzzles with increasing difficulty and skill tests in timing and move efficiency."

  • Competition
    -3

    "Focus is on personal puzzle solving and self-improvement rather than direct competition with others."

  • Continuation
    3

    "Many players report long playtimes and replaying puzzles to improve scores, indicating sustained engagement."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Single-player puzzle game with no cooperative or multiplayer elements."

  • Creativity
    2

    "Players creatively solve puzzles in multiple ways, but within predefined sliding tile mechanics."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No elements of exerting control or superiority over others; purely individual puzzle solving."

  • Escapism
    3

    "Players use the game as a relaxing, immersive mental challenge and stress relief."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily for enjoyment and mental challenge, not out of obligation."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Varied puzzle mechanics encourage trying different strategies and approaches."

  • Exploration
    -2

    "Puzzle environments are fixed and familiar; discovery is about solutions rather than new areas."

  • Expression
    -4

    "Minimal customization or self-expression; focus is on puzzle solving within set designs."

  • Fantasy
    -3

    "Steampunk aesthetic but grounded in realistic mechanical puzzles rather than imaginative fiction."

  • Fellowship
    -5

    "No social or community features; entirely single-player experience."

  • Growth
    4

    "Players develop spatial reasoning, problem-solving skills, and improve through practice."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary puzzle gameplay with no physical activity involved."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention and thoughtful problem solving; not suited for passive or background play."

  • Intimacy
    -5

    "No social or emotional relationship building; purely individual gameplay."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management roles; single-player puzzle solving only."

  • Progression
    3

    "Progression through unlocking puzzles and earning medals, though no item collection or upgrades."

  • Relaxation
    3

    "Many players find the game relaxing and zen-like despite some timed challenges."

  • Sensation
    2

    "Pleasant steampunk visuals and sound design provide moderate sensory enjoyment."

  • Status
    -5

    "No social recognition or status elements; achievements are personal."

  • Story
    -5

    "No narrative or story elements; purely context-free puzzle gameplay."

  • Strategy
    4

    "Requires logical thinking, planning moves, and spatial reasoning to solve puzzles efficiently."

  • Thrill
    -2

    "Some timed modes add mild tension, but overall gameplay is calm and methodical."

  • Value
    4

    "Players report good value for price with many puzzles and replayability."

  • Violence
    -5

    "No violence; gameplay is constructive and puzzle-based."

  • Survival
    -5

    "No survival or threat elements; stable, low-risk puzzle environment."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026