As a sequel to MYST, it's what you expect- a number of puzzles spread across a few big set pieces with an interesting story and a superb atmosphere. The graphics are a bit dated, but hold up well. It's part of the nostalgia factor. The story builds on MYST very well, but is weighed down a bit by how much is implied. It's great if you catch the nuances, unclear if you miss something. I found the puzzles less enjoyable, but more grand in scope, compare to MYST. Where MYST felt like a variety of smaller puzzles, RIVEN feels like a handful of major puzzles in larger set pieces. I found them to be interesting ideas, but often less memorable than MYST. It felt like less variety. The repetitiveness was more noticeable as well. My biggest gripe is how many set pieces never felt significant or used. Many areas never factored into the game in any significant away. This feels liek a missed opportunities both for the story and for the puzzles. The sound- music, effects, and the use of silence- is spot on. I would like to see more current games use sound this well. Overall, a solid sequel bolstered by fun world building and a definite sense of accomplishment when solving some of the more challenging puzzles. Even with its weak points, it's hard not to recommend at least a few playthroughts, especially given the many different possible endings.
The nostalgia is strong with this one. Excellent puzzles, the simple story with multiple possible endings holds up well, and the game still feels good even after 30 years. Highly recommended for those looking for a unique, somewhat pixelated challenge. For those just discovering MYST, it is a product of its time. That means frustration for those used to puzzlers with a steady stream of clues or clear visual feedback when you press a button. Don't forget to look behind you and you can easily miss things if you don't read (and listen) carefully. I wish I could take off half a star simply because the sound puzzle for the rocket is still nightmare fuel for those of us that can't tell an octave from a semitone. Kudos to GOG for throwing in an option to give more leeway on this puzzle.
Quite the nostalgia trip. A very under-rated RPG and easy to overlook. Worth reading the text for little detailsa and matches the book style well. The story holds up too. I read the original series several times and found it makes the world more meaningful, but it's certainly not necessary. Graphics and controls are a bit rough, but what od you expect after 30 years? Save often because dying is easy and healing expensive. Side quests take some searching and exploration to find and solve without a guide, so good old pencil and paper for tracking is recommended. One of my all-time favorites.
