Cocoon Review
Masterful geography makes this world-hopping puzzler not only a series of clever problems, but a grand exploration of a wonderfully realized cosmic universe.
Developer: Geometric Interactive
Publisher: Annapurna Interactive
Release: September 29th, 2023
Platform: Windows
Available on: Steam Game Pass
Price: $25
Reviewed on: Intel Core i9 9700K, 16GB RAM, Nvidia RTX 2070, Windows 10
Cocoon is a puzzler where worlds are contained within orbs, and it’s your job to solve puzzles by hopping in and out of them and carrying them on your back. Despite its complexity, the game guides you towards clear goals in each world, making it a captivating experience. The game gradually introduces new mechanics and tools, allowing players to instinctively understand how to navigate through its beautifully designed worlds.
You play as a winged insect lad who emerges from a chrysalis and finds himself in a mysterious desert land. You soon discover that progress comes from carrying an orange orb on your back, which allows you to manipulate the biomechanics of the world. Each puzzle presents a unique challenge, such as placing the orb in a pipe and rotating bits of the tube to guide it to a cradle. The game cleverly teaches you to grab the orb before moving on, as it is essential for both the insect lad and the world itself.
The worlds in Cocoon are a stunning combination of soft membranes, pillowy curves, and jagged metal grates. As you progress, you’ll encounter boss fights against colossal moths and other insectoid gods. These fights serve as moving puzzles, forcing you to adapt and think creatively. Defeating bosses unlocks new powers and orbs, expanding your arsenal of marbles and adding depth to the gameplay.
Cocoon’s puzzles never become overly complex or confusing. The game provides visual and audio cues to guide players, ensuring that solutions remain intuitive and grounded. Each new orb power brings a fresh twist to exploration, keeping the gameplay engaging and exciting.
Cocoon’s gradual exposure to new mechanics creates a sense of discovery that aligns perfectly with the mysterious narrative. As you solve puzzles and reunite fragmented worlds, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and empowerment. Despite not typically being a fan of puzzle games, Cocoon captivated me throughout its seven-hour runtime. It’s a compact game that offers a satisfying and immersive experience.
If you’re looking for a unique and captivating puzzle game, Cocoon is a must-play. Step into the shoes of the insect lad, unravel the secrets of the cosmic universe, and embark on a grand adventure unlike any other.
This review is based on a review build of the game provided by publishers Annapurna Interactive.