The Gardens Between similar games & best alternatives
The Gardens Between
2018
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Quick resume
The Gardens Between is a surreal puzzle adventure that follows best friends, Arina and Frendt, as they fall into a mysterious world of beautiful garden islands. Manipulate time to solve puzzles and discover the secrets of each island.
Global score
94/100
Genres
Adventure, Indie
Pros
- Beautiful and imaginative art style
- Innovative time manipulation gameplay
- Relaxing music and atmosphere
- Emotional and nostalgic story
- Accessible and low frustration puzzles
Cons
- Short game length
- Low puzzle difficulty
- Limited replay value
- Minimal player autonomy
- Price considered high by some
Motivations
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Autonomy-3
"Players do not control characters directly but manipulate time flow, limiting direct action and choice."
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Competence2
"Puzzles require some thinking and problem solving but are generally easy and not highly challenging."
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Competition-5
"No competitive elements; focus is on personal puzzle solving and story experience."
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Continuation1
"Some players replay levels for achievements and enjoy the experience, but overall game is short and not designed for long habitual play."
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Cooperation-5
"Single player experience with no multiplayer or cooperative gameplay."
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Creativity4
"Innovative time manipulation mechanic and imaginative level design encourage creative puzzle solving."
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Domination-5
"No elements of exerting control or superiority over others; cooperative and equal experience."
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Escapism4
"Players use the game as a relaxing, nostalgic escape into a dreamlike world and childhood memories."
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Expectation-4
"Players engage voluntarily for intrinsic interest and emotional experience."
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Experimenting3
"Players experiment with time flow and puzzle elements to find solutions and explore mechanics."
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Exploration3
"Players explore new surreal environments representing memories, discovering puzzle elements and story."
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Expression-4
"Limited customization or self-expression; players follow preset paths and aesthetics."
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Fantasy4
"Game features imaginative, surreal worlds and abstract storytelling about friendship and memories."
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Fellowship-5
"Primarily a solo experience with minimal social interaction."
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Growth2
"Players develop puzzle-solving skills and understanding of unique mechanics, though difficulty is low."
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Health-5
"Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity elements."
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Idle-3
"Requires focused attention to solve puzzles; not designed for idle or background play."
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Intimacy1
"Emotional connection to story and characters but limited social or relational interaction."
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Leadership-5
"No leadership or group management elements."
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Progression2
"Players progress through levels and unlock achievements, but no complex item or upgrade systems."
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Relaxation4
"Game is relaxing with soothing music, gentle pacing, and low frustration."
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Sensation3
"Beautiful visuals and ambient sound provide sensory enjoyment and emotional engagement."
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Status-5
"No social status or recognition systems."
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Story4
"Strong narrative immersion through visual storytelling and emotional themes without dialogue."
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Strategy2
"Requires some problem solving and planning in puzzle solutions, but puzzles are generally straightforward."
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Thrill-3
"Low risk and tension; experience is calm and contemplative rather than suspenseful."
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Value1
"Players find good value especially on sale, though some consider price high for short length."
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Violence-5
"No violence; gameplay is constructive and peaceful."
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Survival-5
"No survival or threat avoidance mechanics; stable, low-risk environment."
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Last update: 06/03/2026