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Lightmatter

Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PC (Microsoft Windows) • 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

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players have freedom to solve puzzles in multiple ways using light placement and manipulation, with some exploration and choice in approach."

  • Competence
    3

    "Puzzles require logical thinking and skillful timing especially in platforming sections; difficulty ramps steadily but remains accessible."

  • Competition
    -4

    "Focus is on individual puzzle solving and personal progress without competitive elements or leaderboards."

  • Continuation
    2

    "Players tend to engage in multiple sessions to complete the game and achievements, though the game is relatively short."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Entirely single-player experience with no cooperative or multiplayer components."

  • Creativity
    3

    "Players creatively manipulate light sources and connectors to solve puzzles, though within defined mechanics."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No elements of exerting control over others; gameplay is solitary and non-confrontational."

  • Escapism
    3

    "Immersive puzzle environment and narrative provide distraction and engagement away from real life."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of interest and enjoyment, with no external pressure or obligation."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Encourages trying different puzzle solutions and exploring light mechanics, though within a structured framework."

  • Exploration
    2

    "Players explore a large facility with some secrets and Easter eggs, but mostly linear progression."

  • Expression
    -3

    "Minimal customization or self-expression; players interact with preset environments and characters."

  • Fantasy
    3

    "Fictional sci-fi setting with imaginative technology and narrative elements inspired by Portal universe."

  • Fellowship
    -5

    "No social or community features; entirely solo experience."

  • Growth
    3

    "Players develop puzzle-solving skills and learn mechanics progressively throughout the game."

  • Health
    -5

    "Standard sedentary gameplay without physical activity or health-related features."

  • Idle
    -3

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

  • Intimacy
    -5

    "No social or emotional relationship building; interactions limited to narrative voiceover."

  • Leadership
    -5

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

  • Progression
    3

    "Players progress through chapters and unlock achievements, with some collectible elements."

  • Relaxation
    2

    "Generally balanced challenge with moments of flow, though some frustration possible in platforming."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Distinctive visual style and atmospheric audio provide engaging sensory experience."

  • Status
    -5

    "No social recognition or status systems present."

  • Story
    3

    "Narrative voiceover and environmental storytelling provide a simple but engaging plot."

  • Strategy
    3

    "Puzzles require logical reasoning, planning, and problem solving."

  • Thrill
    1

    "Some suspense in platforming and timing challenges, but mostly controlled puzzle solving."

  • Value
    -1

    "Mixed player sentiment on value; short length noted but generally considered worth price on sale."

  • Violence
    -5

    "No combat or destructive gameplay; focus on constructive puzzle solving."

  • Survival
    2

    "Players must avoid shadows that cause instant death, adding a survival element to puzzle navigation."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026