Lightmatter similar games & best alternatives
Lightmatter
2020
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Quick resume
A first-person puzzler where shadows kill you. Watch your step or be swallowed by the darkness.
Global score
91/100
Genres
Adventure, Indie, Puzzle
Pros
- Engaging and clever puzzles
- Unique light and shadow mechanics
- Strong voice acting and humor
- Atmospheric visual style
- Well-paced difficulty curve
Cons
- Short game length
- Some technical issues and crashes
- Final platforming section divisive
- Limited puzzle variety
- Heavy portal references may feel derivative
Motivations
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Autonomy4
"Players have freedom to solve puzzles in multiple ways using light placement and manipulation, with some exploration and choice in approach."
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Competence3
"Puzzles require logical thinking and skillful timing especially in platforming sections; difficulty ramps steadily but remains accessible."
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Competition-4
"Focus is on individual puzzle solving and personal progress without competitive elements or leaderboards."
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Continuation2
"Players tend to engage in multiple sessions to complete the game and achievements, though the game is relatively short."
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Cooperation-5
"Entirely single-player experience with no cooperative or multiplayer components."
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Creativity3
"Players creatively manipulate light sources and connectors to solve puzzles, though within defined mechanics."
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Domination-5
"No elements of exerting control over others; gameplay is solitary and non-confrontational."
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Escapism3
"Immersive puzzle environment and narrative provide distraction and engagement away from real life."
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Expectation-4
"Players engage voluntarily out of interest and enjoyment, with no external pressure or obligation."
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Experimenting3
"Encourages trying different puzzle solutions and exploring light mechanics, though within a structured framework."
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Exploration2
"Players explore a large facility with some secrets and Easter eggs, but mostly linear progression."
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Expression-3
"Minimal customization or self-expression; players interact with preset environments and characters."
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Fantasy3
"Fictional sci-fi setting with imaginative technology and narrative elements inspired by Portal universe."
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Fellowship-5
"No social or community features; entirely solo experience."
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Growth3
"Players develop puzzle-solving skills and learn mechanics progressively throughout the game."
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Health-5
"Standard sedentary gameplay without physical activity or health-related features."
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Idle-3
"Requires focused attention and active problem solving; not suited for passive or background play."
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Intimacy-5
"No social or emotional relationship building; interactions limited to narrative voiceover."
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Leadership-5
"No leadership or group management roles; single-player puzzle focus."
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Progression3
"Players progress through chapters and unlock achievements, with some collectible elements."
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Relaxation2
"Generally balanced challenge with moments of flow, though some frustration possible in platforming."
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Sensation3
"Distinctive visual style and atmospheric audio provide engaging sensory experience."
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Status-5
"No social recognition or status systems present."
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Story3
"Narrative voiceover and environmental storytelling provide a simple but engaging plot."
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Strategy3
"Puzzles require logical reasoning, planning, and problem solving."
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Thrill1
"Some suspense in platforming and timing challenges, but mostly controlled puzzle solving."
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Value-1
"Mixed player sentiment on value; short length noted but generally considered worth price on sale."
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Violence-5
"No combat or destructive gameplay; focus on constructive puzzle solving."
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Survival2
"Players must avoid shadows that cause instant death, adding a survival element to puzzle navigation."
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Where to buy
Last update: 06/03/2026