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Machinarium

Xbox One, PlayStation 3, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation Vita, PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux, iOS, Mac, PlayStation 4, Android • 2009

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Quick resume

Machinarium is the award-winning independent adventure game developed by the makers of Samorost series, Botanicula and CHUCHEL. Help Josef the robot save his girlfriend Berta kidnapped by the Black Cap Brotherhood gang!

Global score

95/100

Genres

Adventure, Indie, Point-and-click, Puzzle

Pros

  • Beautiful hand-drawn art style
  • Engaging and clever puzzles
  • Immersive steampunk atmosphere
  • Emotional and charming story
  • Excellent soundtrack and sound design

Cons

  • Some puzzles can be obtuse or frustrating
  • Short game length
  • Limited player expression and customization
  • No multiplayer or social features
  • Some control and interaction quirks

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players control the robot's actions and decisions freely within point-and-click mechanics, including changing robot's height to interact with environment."

  • Competence
    4

    "The game features challenging and varied puzzles that require logical thinking and problem solving, with feedback and hint systems."

  • Competition
    -4

    "Focus is on individual puzzle solving and story progression without competitive elements or player comparison."

  • Continuation
    3

    "Players often replay the game for nostalgia and atmosphere, showing attachment despite its relatively short length."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Single-player experience focused on individual puzzle solving and exploration without multiplayer or cooperative play."

  • Creativity
    4

    "Players creatively solve puzzles using unique mechanics like robot height changes and item combinations in a richly detailed world."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No elements of exerting control or superiority over others; interactions are narrative and puzzle-based."

  • Escapism
    4

    "The immersive steampunk world and charming story provide a strong escape from reality and emotional engagement."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily driven by intrinsic interest, nostalgia, and appreciation for art and puzzles."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Encourages trying different puzzle solutions and exploring the environment, though within a structured adventure."

  • Exploration
    3

    "Players explore a detailed mechanical city and discover new areas and secrets as part of the adventure."

  • Expression
    -3

    "Limited character customization; expression mainly through narrative and environmental art rather than player modification."

  • Fantasy
    3

    "Set in a fictional steampunk robot world with imaginative storytelling and characters."

  • Fellowship
    -5

    "Primarily a solo experience with minimal social interaction or community involvement."

  • Growth
    3

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

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay typical of point-and-click adventures without physical activity."

  • Idle
    -4

    "Requires focused attention on puzzles and exploration; not designed for casual or background play."

  • Intimacy
    -4

    "Emotional connection is with the story and characters rather than social or interpersonal relationships."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management elements; player acts independently."

  • Progression
    3

    "Progression through solving puzzles and unlocking new areas, with some item collection and usage."

  • Relaxation
    3

    "Atmospheric music and art create a calming experience, though some puzzles add challenge and tension."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Enjoyable visual and auditory aesthetics provide sensory pleasure and emotional engagement."

  • Status
    -5

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

  • Story
    4

    "Narrative is conveyed through visual storytelling and character animations, creating emotional immersion."

  • Strategy
    3

    "Requires logical thinking and planning to solve puzzles and progress."

  • Thrill
    -2

    "Low suspense or risk; gameplay is more contemplative and puzzle-focused than thrilling."

  • Value
    3

    "Players find good value in the artistic experience, story, and challenging puzzles despite short playtime."

  • Violence
    -5

    "No violent or destructive gameplay; focus on constructive puzzle solving and exploration."

  • Survival
    -5

    "No survival mechanics or threats; stable and safe game environment."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026