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The Mirror Lied

PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2018

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Quick resume

This isn't a horror game. Nothing will jump out at you.

Global score

88/100

Genres

Adventure, Indie

Pros

  • Free and short
  • Unique surreal atmosphere
  • Thought-provoking abstract story
  • Well-crafted pixel art and music
  • Accessible gameplay

Cons

  • Confusing and vague narrative
  • Minimal gameplay depth
  • Some clunky controls
  • Lack of clear direction
  • No replay incentives beyond interpretation

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    3

    "Players control the protagonist's movements and interactions freely within a small environment, with some puzzle solving and exploration."

  • Competence
    -2

    "Gameplay involves simple point-and-click and walking puzzles with minimal challenge or skill variation."

  • Competition
    -5

    "No competitive elements or comparison to others; purely single player experience."

  • Continuation
    1

    "Short playtime (~20-30 minutes) with some incentive to replay for alternate interpretations, but not habitual or long sessions."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Entirely single player with no cooperative or multiplayer features."

  • Creativity
    2

    "Players interpret the abstract story and symbolism creatively, though gameplay itself is fixed and linear."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No social dominance or power dynamics; solo experience without interactions with others."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Abstract, surreal, and mysterious atmosphere provides a form of escapism and immersion away from reality."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of interest in the developer or genre; no obligation or external pressure."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "The game is an experimental early work with abstract storytelling encouraging players to explore and interpret."

  • Exploration
    2

    "Players explore a small house environment and discover subtle changes and clues."

  • Expression
    -3

    "No character customization or player-driven visual expression; fixed pixel art presentation."

  • Fantasy
    3

    "Surreal, dreamlike narrative with metaphorical and abstract elements rather than realistic scenarios."

  • Fellowship
    -5

    "No social or community features; purely individual play."

  • Growth
    1

    "Some personal development through interpreting story and symbolism, but minimal skill growth."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity involved."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention during short play sessions; not a background or idle game."

  • Intimacy
    -5

    "No social or emotional relationships formed; solitary experience."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management roles; single player only."

  • Progression
    2

    "Players collect items and unlock areas to advance the story, though progression is linear and limited."

  • Relaxation
    2

    "Atmospheric and subtle tension with a slow pace, allowing for a contemplative experience."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Creepy and eerie atmosphere with unsettling audio cues and pixel art visuals evoke emotional responses."

  • Status
    -5

    "No social recognition or status systems present."

  • Story
    4

    "Narrative-driven experience with abstract, metaphorical storytelling that is central to the game."

  • Strategy
    -3

    "Minimal puzzle solving with straightforward item usage; no complex planning or problem solving."

  • Thrill
    2

    "Subtle suspense and unease create a mild thrill but no intense or high-risk moments."

  • Value
    5

    "Free game with short playtime offers high perceived value for time invested."

  • Violence
    1

    "Some minor violent elements (shooting bird) but overall low emphasis on violence."

  • Survival
    -4

    "No survival mechanics or threat avoidance; stable environment despite narrative tension."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026