Riven

About Riven

Riven is a remake of the 1997 adventure sequel to Myst by Cyan Worlds. Launching June 2024, it blends puzzle-solving and exploration in a first-person or VR format. Players navigate Riven, a crumbling island ruled by Atrus’ father Gehn, to rescue Catherine. The game features open 3D environments, environmental puzzles, and a narrative-driven single-player campaign. Available on PC, Mac, SteamVR, and Meta Quest 2, it caters to fans of atmospheric adventures. The remake modernizes the 1997 classic, offering updated visuals and mechanics while retaining its core mystery.

Gameplay

In Riven, players move through first-person or VR to explore interconnected islands filled with ancient machinery and hidden traps. Puzzles rely on observation: adjusting gears, aligning symbols, or manipulating light sources. Each solution often ties to narrative lore about Riven’s collapse. Sessions involve backtracking, as later puzzles depend on earlier discoveries. Controls are intuitive but precise, requiring patience for intricate mechanisms. The VR mode adds physical interaction, like rotating objects with hand gestures. No time pressure, but environmental hazards like collapsing structures keep tension high. Progress is linear but interwoven with branching exploration.

What Players Think

Metacritic scores Riven 83/100. PlayPile data shows 47% of players complete it, with an average playtime of 12 hours. Community moods lean 68% “awe” but 22% “frustrated” by puzzles. Reviewers praise the “hauntingly beautiful world” and “seamless VR integration” but note “some puzzles feel obtuse.” 33% of players describe the experience as “nostalgic,” comparing it to the original Myst. The game ranks 89% on Steam for “very positive” reviews. Achievement completion averages 72%, with 36 total.

PlayPile's Take

Riven is a must-play for adventure and puzzle enthusiasts, especially VR users. Priced at $39.99, it offers 12+ hours of atmospheric mystery. While some puzzles test patience, the payoff is satisfying for those who enjoy methodical problem-solving. Achievements track progress but aren’t essential to enjoyment. Not ideal for casual players, but fans of Cyan’s earlier work or engaging storytelling will appreciate the remake’s polish and depth.

Storyline

Atrus asks you to undertake a perilous mission where your success is far from assured. Travel to Riven, a mysterious island-filled land on the verge of collapse, to rescue Atrus’ wife, Catherine. She is being held captive by Gehn, Atrus’ father and the self-declared overlord of Riven. Explore Riven, solve puzzles to reveal its mysteries, find Catherine, and make your escape.