Hidden Folks
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About Hidden Folks
Hidden Folks is a point-and-click puzzle game by Adriaan de Jongh, released in 2017. It blends whimsical art with straightforward exploration. You search for hidden characters in hand-drawn scenes, manipulating objects like tents, bushes, and even crocodiles to uncover them. Available on PC, Switch, Linux, Mac, and mobile, it’s a single-player experience focused on curiosity and creativity. The game feels like a digital scavenger hunt, where each scene is a self-contained challenge. Its charm comes from simple interactions and a low-pressure rhythm, making it ideal for quick, lighthearted sessions.
Gameplay
Each level drops you into a tiny, detailed scene, like a forest or beach, and tasks you with finding one person hidden in plain sight. You click on anything to manipulate it: cut foliage, open doors, flick switches, or provoke animals. The mechanics are intuitive but not without quirks; sometimes you’ll poke a crocodile to make it move, or slam a door to trigger a hidden path. Sessions rarely last longer than 15, 30 minutes, though some scenes stretch to an hour. Controls are basic but responsive, relying on a single mouse/joycon click. The challenge lies in figuring out how objects interact, with minimal hints provided. It’s a puzzle game that rewards patience but never forces it.
What Players Think
Community ratings average 78/100 on Metacritic and 78.2/100 on IGDB, with 86% of PlayPile users reporting a “happy” mood. Average playtime clocks in at 4.3 hours, though 74% of players finish within 2, 5 hours. Only 20.6% of its 8 achievements are unlocked, hinting at sparse difficulty. Reviews highlight the “quirky charm” and “delightful art,” though some note it’s “too brief” or “repetitive.” The game’s low price ($15.99) softens criticisms of brevity. Most praise its accessibility but acknowledge it lacks depth for hardcore puzzle fans.
PlayPile's Take
Hidden Folks is a quick, charming diversion for casual players. Its strength lies in simplicity and whimsy, not complexity. At $15.99, it’s a low-risk purchase for fans of point-and-click puzzles or interactive art. Avoid it if you crave longevity or challenging mechanics. Completionists won’t find much here, but most will appreciate the brisk, cheerful experience. It’s best played in short bursts, making it perfect for commuters or downtime. The game doesn’t overstay its welcome, and that’s its greatest strength.
Game Modes
Single player
IGDB Rating
78.2
RAWG Rating
3.9
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