Observation Thumbnail

Observation similar games & best alternatives

Observation

Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2020

Related articles

Quick resume

Observation is a sci-fi thriller uncovering what happened to Dr. Emma Fisher, and the crew of her mission, through the lens of the station’s artificial intelligence S.A.M.

Global score

78/100

Genres

Adventure, Indie, Simulator, Puzzle, Arcade

Pros

  • Immersive sci-fi atmosphere
  • Engaging and unique story
  • Innovative ai perspective gameplay
  • Strong audiovisual design
  • Thought-provoking puzzles

Cons

  • Clunky and slow controls
  • Some frustrating or obscure puzzles
  • Short game length
  • Linear progression limits freedom
  • Navigation can be disorienting

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    3

    "Players control the AI and can direct cameras, drones, and systems freely within constraints, but progression is linear and some areas are locked, limiting full freedom."

  • Competence
    2

    "Puzzles require attention and some skill, but are generally not very difficult; some players find controls clunky which adds challenge."

  • Competition
    -5

    "No competitive elements; focus is on personal experience and story."

  • Continuation
    1

    "Some players report immersive experience leading to long sessions, but game is short and some find it tedious or frustrating, limiting habitual play."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Single-player experience with no multiplayer or cooperative gameplay."

  • Creativity
    1

    "Players interact with systems and solve puzzles in novel ways, but within predefined structures and linear progression."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No elements of exerting control over others; solo narrative experience."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Strong immersion in sci-fi atmosphere and story provides escape from real life."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily for intrinsic interest in story and atmosphere; no obligation or pressure noted."

  • Experimenting
    2

    "Players explore different cameras and systems, experimenting with controls and puzzle solutions, though within a linear framework."

  • Exploration
    2

    "Exploration of space station via cameras and drones is a key gameplay element, though environments are limited and some areas become inaccessible."

  • Expression
    -5

    "No character customization or self-expression; fixed presentation."

  • Fantasy
    3

    "Fictional sci-fi setting with AI perspective and supernatural elements, though grounded in near-future plausible technology."

  • Fellowship
    -5

    "Solo experience with minimal social interaction."

  • Growth
    2

    "Players learn to operate complex systems and solve puzzles, gaining knowledge and skills during play."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention and puzzle solving; not suitable for background or casual play."

  • Intimacy
    -5

    "No social or emotional relationship building; solitary experience."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management elements."

  • Progression
    3

    "Progression through story and unlocking new systems and areas, with some collectible items enhancing narrative."

  • Relaxation
    1

    "Atmosphere is tense and suspenseful but not overly stressful; some players find it relaxing, others find it frustrating."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Strong audiovisual design creates immersive sensory experience with suspenseful and eerie mood."

  • Status
    -5

    "No social status or recognition systems."

  • Story
    5

    "Narrative-driven game with strong emphasis on story, atmosphere, and mystery."

  • Strategy
    1

    "Some puzzle solving and problem solving involved, but mostly straightforward tasks."

  • Thrill
    3

    "Suspenseful and tense moments create thrill and anticipation."

  • Value
    2

    "Generally considered good value especially on sale; short length noted but story and atmosphere justify purchase."

  • Violence
    -5

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

  • Survival
    1

    "Some elements of avoiding failure and progressing through challenges, but no traditional survival mechanics."

Similar games

    Where to buy

    Last update: 06/03/2026