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“Semispheres” is a truly neat stealth puzzler by studio Vivid Helix with a developer team of one (Radu Muresan), and the game sure picked a nice day to launch on the PS4. Yes, the game actually dropped on PSN on Valentine’s Day. Any ways, I´ll have you know that this little game is certainly worth of your time. As it offers some much-needed relaxation from the big AAA games and chocolates hitting the current market.

“Semispheres” art style is simple and effective.

At heart, “Semispheres” is a relaxing puzzler where you control two spheres with the two analogue sticks. The levels start off simple at first guiding each Sphere to their destination, and as you progress through the game. New ways to play are introduced such as creating warp holes, teleporting across and distracting enemies. After a dozen or so levels, things start to get more complex. In other words, you need to start thinking how to tackle each puzzle, and some are incredibly clever and the sense of achievement when completing them feels great. The controls aren’t too frustrating either, despite moving each sphere independently. I slowly got used to adjusting each sphere and got used to guiding them to their little locations.

“Semispheres” puzzles become more complex over time, but they are never annoying.

What makes “Semispheres” enjoyable is in its simplicity thanks to its gameplay and presentation. “Semispheres” is immediately accessible to anyone. However, you don’t need to spend hours looking at a guide to get the most out of this like some other games. The learning curve isn’t too steep and the puzzles don’t feel intimidating, which makes for an enjoyable experience I got the same feel from this game when I played games like “Flow and Flower“, it’s relaxing to play, despite needing to use your brain every now and then the visuals and music (Sid Barnhoorn) keep things calm and serene which very few puzzle games achieve. When you complete each sequence of puzzles you unlock some story boards showing a relationship between a boy and a robot which seems a bit random as the art is very different to what you’re playing.

Prepare your brains for one hell of a work out!

While there are no major negatives, it’s worth noting that there is no multiplayer or leader boards to beat your friend’s times (for those that enjoy a score attack) and this is just me being picky. The game does its job well and coming from the talents of one person it’s very commendable. So if you’re looking for something that isn’t shooty shooty bang-bang or stabby stabby dead dead, then “Semispheres” might be worth your time. As it’s a charming puzzler which offers both relaxation and a challenge, and the game should be out right now on your digital store.

Pros:
+ Relaxing
+ Fun Puzzles
+ Pick up and play

Cons:
– No Multiplayer
– Story seems a bit random
– No replay value

Gameplay: 5/5
Graphics: 5/5
Sound/music: 5/5
Controls: 5/5
Replay value: 2/5

tgg grade 4.5 out of 5

Verdict: 4.5/5
Vivid Helix “Semispheres” is a really entertaining, relaxing and easy to pick up and play stealth puzzler. So it’s most definitely worthy of your time and money if you´re into puzzle games.

Title: Semispheres
Developer: Vivid Helix
Format: PS4
Genre: Puzzler
Resolution: 1080p
Release date: 2017-02-14
Difficulty: Medium
Spent time: 3 hours
Average grade internationally: TBA% Gamerankings.com
PEGI age rating: E
Price: £10