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The Signal State

PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac • 2021

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Quick resume

Set in a post-apocalyptic future, The Signal State puts your logic skills to the test with complex puzzles inspired by modular synthesizers. Repair machines, rebuild an abandoned farm, and be part of a revolution that will change the fate of agriculture once and for all.

Global score

87/100

Genres

Simulator, Puzzle

Pros

  • Challenging and well-designed puzzles
  • Innovative modular synth-based mechanics
  • Engaging learning curve for logic and synthesis
  • Polished interface and visuals
  • Active developer support and planned workshop

Cons

  • Relatively short main campaign
  • Some ui and qol limitations (no undo, fiddly wiring)
  • Story is minimal and not immersive
  • Leaderboards can be confusing due to ng+ mixing
  • Music can be repetitive or distracting

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players freely design and optimize their own circuit solutions with modular components, allowing high control over actions and decisions."

  • Competence
    4

    "The game offers challenging puzzles that require skillful logic and optimization, with feedback via leaderboards and metrics."

  • Competition
    2

    "Leaderboards and scoring encourage comparison, but some players focus on personal optimization and casual play."

  • Continuation
    1

    "Some players engage in extended optimization and replaying puzzles, but the main campaign is relatively short."

  • Cooperation
    -3

    "Gameplay is primarily single-player puzzle solving with limited direct cooperation; some social interaction occurs on Discord."

  • Creativity
    4

    "Players create custom circuit designs and optimize solutions, with sandbox mode and workshop support enhancing creativity."

  • Domination
    -4

    "Interactions are balanced and respectful; no evidence of exerting control or superiority over others."

  • Escapism
    3

    "Players use the game as a mental challenge and distraction, with some enjoying the immersive puzzle experience."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of intrinsic interest and enjoyment rather than obligation or pressure."

  • Experimenting
    4

    "The game encourages trying new puzzle approaches, tinkering with modules, and exploring optimization strategies."

  • Exploration
    1

    "Some discovery of new modules and puzzle mechanics occurs, but environments and puzzles are mostly predefined."

  • Expression
    -2

    "Limited customization beyond puzzle solutions; no avatar personalization or cosmetic modifications."

  • Fantasy
    1

    "Set in a post-apocalyptic fictional world, but gameplay focuses on realistic logic and signal processing."

  • Fellowship
    -3

    "Primarily solo play with minimal social connection; community interaction mostly via external Discord."

  • Growth
    4

    "Players learn logic, modular synthesis concepts, and improve problem-solving skills throughout the game."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity or health-related features."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention and sustained engagement to solve puzzles; not suited for casual idle play."

  • Intimacy
    -4

    "No evidence of close relationships or emotional sharing; social interactions are limited and surface-level."

  • Leadership
    -4

    "No leadership or authoritative roles; players act independently without managing or guiding others."

  • Progression
    3

    "Players accumulate new modules and unlock puzzles, progressing through increasingly complex challenges."

  • Relaxation
    1

    "Music and atmosphere provide some relaxation, but puzzle difficulty and frustration can create tension."

  • Sensation
    2

    "Visuals and music contribute to sensory enjoyment, though some find music repetitive or distracting."

  • Status
    1

    "Leaderboards offer recognition, but social status is limited and not a primary motivation."

  • Story
    1

    "There is a narrative backdrop, but it is minimal and not deeply integrated into gameplay."

  • Strategy
    4

    "Strong emphasis on mental challenge, problem solving, and devising efficient circuit strategies."

  • Thrill
    -1

    "Puzzle solving involves moderate challenge without high suspense or risk."

  • Value
    2

    "Players find good value in the puzzle content and learning experience, though some note the game is short."

  • Violence
    -5

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

  • Survival
    -5

    "No survival elements; gameplay occurs in stable, low-risk puzzle environments."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026