RiME

About RiME

RiME is a third-person adventure game developed by Tequila Works and published by Six Foot. Released on May 26, 2017, it blends platforming and puzzle-solving in a surreal, visually striking island setting. The story follows a young boy stranded on a mysterious island, navigating through stylized environments to uncover the reason for his presence and escape. The game leans heavily on exploration, with minimal combat and a focus on environmental storytelling. It’s available on PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. The genre mix of adventure, platform, and puzzle caters to players who enjoy quiet, atmospheric journeys over fast-paced action.

Gameplay

RiME centers on solving environmental puzzles to progress through handcrafted island areas. Players climb, jump, and manipulate objects to unlock paths, often requiring precise platforming. The third-person controls emphasize smooth movement but lack combat mechanics. Sessions typically involve discovering hidden routes, deciphering visual clues, and piecing together the island’s lore through environmental details. The game avoids dialogue, relying on tone and setting to convey its narrative. Puzzles range from simple light-based challenges to multi-step sequences tied to the island’s shifting terrain. With no time pressure, the experience leans into a meditative pace, though some sections may feel repetitive. The campaign lasts around 5-7 hours, depending on puzzle-solving efficiency.

What Players Think

RiME holds a 74.4/100 score on IGDB from 241 ratings. Community feedback highlights its art direction and atmosphere but criticizes its short length and underdeveloped mechanics. Completion rates average 68%, with many players abandoning the game before the final act. Average playtime sits at 6.2 hours, aligning with its compact design. Review snippets praise the “hauntingly beautiful” environments but call the puzzles “predictable.” Moods are split: 42% list “serene,” while 31% tag “frustrating.” Critics note the game’s ambition outpaces its execution, particularly in its repetitive midsection. The lack of post-game content and minimal replayability also draw frequent complaints.

PlayPile's Take

RiME offers a brief, visually compelling adventure best suited for fans of minimalist storytelling and environmental puzzles. While its art style and atmosphere stand out, the short runtime and repetitive design may not justify the asking price for most. The game’s 120 achievements add minor replay value but rarely shift core gameplay. For $20-$30, it functions as a decent side quest for those who appreciate slow-burn, story-driven experiences. However, with a 74% score and a 6.2-hour average playtime, it’s a niche pick. Skip it if you crave depth or longevity, but try it if you want a quiet, scenic puzzle journey.

Storyline

The game's back story involves a boy who needs to escape an island and a curse.