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Contrast

PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2013

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Quick resume

CONTRAST is a puzzle/platform game where you can move between a fantastic 3D world and a mysterious shadowy universe in 2D in the blink of an eye. Delve into a dreamlike and surreal 1920s world, inspired by the performance art world of vaudeville and film noir, and cradled by a smooth and sultry jazz ambiance.

Global score

91/100

Genres

Adventure, Indie

Pros

  • Unique shadow and light gameplay mechanic
  • Beautiful art style and atmosphere
  • Emotional and mature story
  • Excellent jazz soundtrack
  • Accessible puzzles and controls

Cons

  • Short game length
  • Some control and camera issues
  • Limited replay value
  • Story feels incomplete or rushed
  • Minor bugs and glitches

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    3

    "Players control Dawn with freedom to explore and solve puzzles using light and shadow mechanics, though the story progression is linear."

  • Competence
    2

    "Puzzles require some skill and thinking but are generally easy to moderate; some frustration due to controls and camera."

  • Competition
    -5

    "Single player experience focused on personal story and puzzle solving without any competitive elements."

  • Continuation
    -3

    "Short game (~3-5 hours) with limited replay value; players complete it in one or few sessions."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Entirely single player with no multiplayer or cooperative gameplay."

  • Creativity
    5

    "Highly creative gameplay mechanic involving shifting between 3D and 2D shadow worlds and manipulating light sources."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No elements of domination or control over others; cooperative and story-driven."

  • Escapism
    5

    "Strong escapism through immersive noir atmosphere, fantasy elements, and emotional storytelling."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily for intrinsic interest in story, art, and puzzles; no obligation or pressure."

  • Experimenting
    4

    "Players experiment with light and shadow mechanics and puzzle solutions; some trial and error involved."

  • Exploration
    2

    "Some exploration of surreal environments and hidden collectibles, though mostly linear progression."

  • Expression
    -3

    "Limited character customization or expression; focus is on narrative and puzzle solving."

  • Fantasy
    4

    "Imaginative fiction with surreal shadow worlds and an imaginary friend character."

  • Fellowship
    -5

    "Solo experience with minimal social interaction or community involvement."

  • Growth
    2

    "Some learning and skill development in puzzle solving and understanding game mechanics."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay typical of puzzle platformers; no physical activity involved."

  • Idle
    -4

    "Requires focused attention during play; not suited for background or casual idle play."

  • Intimacy
    3

    "Emotional connection to characters and story fosters a sense of closeness and empathy."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management elements; single player narrative."

  • Progression
    3

    "Progression through story acts and collection of items and achievements."

  • Relaxation
    3

    "Generally relaxing atmosphere with jazz soundtrack and moderate challenge."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Enjoyable audiovisual experience with stylish art and music providing sensory pleasure."

  • Status
    -5

    "No social status or recognition mechanics; focus on personal experience."

  • Story
    5

    "Strong narrative immersion with emotional, mature story and character development."

  • Strategy
    2

    "Puzzles require some problem solving and planning, but not complex strategy."

  • Thrill
    -2

    "Low suspense or risk; gameplay is calm and contemplative rather than thrilling."

  • Value
    1

    "Good value for price especially on sale; some feel full price is high for short length."

  • Violence
    -5

    "No violence; focus on puzzle solving and story."

  • Survival
    -5

    "No survival elements; stable, low-risk gameplay environment."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026