Ouros review - "Satisfying puzzler, but not for the faint of heart"

I adore puzzle games, and whenever I get the chance to try a new one, especially a minimalistic one, I jump at the idea. Such was the case with Ouros, and I cannot say I was disappointed. 

Today I will tell you all about my experience playing Ouros, so hopefully, this Ouros review will help you make up your mind in case you had any doubts about giving the game a go. 

How much do you really love puzzle games?

For me personally, I know puzzlers are a top 3 - however, if you are not someone who is willing to spend some time (is 1h too much to stay on a level? Oof!) on one single stage trying to figure it out, or you hate anything that has to do with logic, you might have to pass.

Ouros is a game where logic takes the number one spot, and having an eye for detail is a big help. Something else that would help is experience with knots. Boy Scouts, anyone? 

Since your task is to complete each stage by taking the dot from point A to point B despite the obstacles, sometimes you might have to take some crazy twists and turns. More often than not, you will end up using the Hint button, because even if a stage looks simple at first, the solution might not be as simple.

If you are a fan of mobile puzzle games, chances are you will LOVE Ouros. 

Luckily, there is a Hint button

I tend to avoid going for the easy way out, and the Hint button seems to do just that at the start. It gives you the "solution" - however, it does not tell you how to reach that solution. 

For a game where logical thinking is everything, I have to say I was impressed by this feature. Getting the solution is one thing, but figuring out how to get to it is an entirely different game. Some levels are easier than others, and in some cases, you could avoid a tougher level by playing the alternative. 

About the sound and graphics

Graphics-wise, Ouros is as minimalistic as they come. The game looks neat, and it doesn't have any unnecessary visual clutter on the screen. It all focuses on the game, and that is what I love about it. 

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The animations are neat and smooth, and everything flows together perfectly. I have nothing to object to since I love it when games keep it simple and your whole focus is on what's in front of you.

In terms of sound, Ouros has pleasant ambient music in the background that you can easily immerse in during playtime. I did that, and while it was not the most relaxing atmosphere in a game, it helped. The only thing that stressed me was strategising on how I could pass the level. Oh well - that's what I get for trying to finish everything without hints.

"Is it too difficult?"

After seeing me struggle, my partner asked me if I was alright. I told him about the game, and he jokingly asked me, "Is it too difficult for you?" I have to admit - some stages are a little hard. 

If you like a challenge or just want to dare your friends to "solve" one stage, it makes for an incredibly fun game. I guess you could really test your friends' logical thinking with it, and see who would be the most reliable if you ever went into an escape room or a reality TV show. Why not? 

All in all, it is a relaxing game

Despite being as challenging as it is, Ouros has some relaxing elements. If you won't do it like me, and you aren't challenging yourself to complete the game on your first playthrough, you can enjoy it as a genuinely relaxing game. 

With the brilliant combination of ambient sounds, simple controls and minimal aesthetics, Ouros is really fun when you just want to unwind, but still want to test your brain. 

I enjoyed my experience with the game quite a lot and even managed to (almost) complete the game. Some stages are still a little bit too complex for me to figure out to this day. And no, I am still not going to give in and use the hints!

For more details, you can also head over to the official website. Ouros is available on Google Play or the App Store for $2.99.