Strinova is an indie puzzle-adventure game that’s available on both PS5 and Steam, offering a beautifully immersive experience with a focus on environmental puzzles, exploration, and a mysterious world. While the gameplay experience is similar across both platforms, there are some differences in how the game performs on each. Here’s a detailed review based on the PS5 and Steam versions:

Storyline: 8/10

The game is set in the mysterious world of Strinova, a place that’s both beautiful and filled with secrets. Players take on the role of a character navigating through the land to uncover hidden stories and solve puzzles. The narrative is rich, but it’s told through the environment, visual cues, and small snippets of dialogue. It’s not overtly linear, which gives players a sense of freedom while still maintaining an overarching plot. However, some might find the storytelling a bit abstract or elusive.

Gameplay: 9/10

The core of Strinova revolves around solving environmental puzzles that use the mechanics of shifting the landscape or interacting with the surrounding elements. The puzzles are clever but never too frustrating. They require patience and logical thinking, often making players observe the surroundings in great detail. The game’s pacing is steady, and each new challenge introduces a unique twist, keeping things fresh.

Graphics and Art Style: 9/10

One of the standout features of Strinova is its artistic direction. The game is visually stunning, with a hand-drawn, watercolor-like aesthetic. The world feels alive, with vibrant, dynamic lighting effects and detailed landscapes that evoke a sense of wonder. Whether it’s a lush forest, a misty cavern, or a sweeping mountain range, the art style creates an immersive experience.

Sound and Music: 8/10

The sound design is subtle yet effective. The soundtrack is ambient, with soft instrumental melodies that enhance the atmosphere without overpowering the experience. The sound effects, such as wind blowing, water dripping, and the rustling of leaves, all contribute to a calming yet mysterious ambiance. However, some players might find the music repetitive over time.

Controls and UI: 7/10

The controls in Strinova are simple and intuitive, but the user interface could use a little improvement. There are times when navigating the menu or inventory can feel a bit clunky. Also, the lack of a tutorial or clear guidance on certain mechanics might leave some players feeling lost at first.

Replayability: 7/10

While the game is a fantastic single-play experience, there isn’t much incentive for replayability. Once the puzzles are solved and the story is uncovered, there isn’t much that encourages players to return. However, the beautiful world and subtle secrets might pull players back for another go if they enjoy exploration.

Conclusion: 8/10

Strinova is a delightful indie puzzle-adventure game that combines stunning visuals with thoughtful, challenging gameplay. It’s a game that rewards patience and observation, but it might not appeal to those looking for fast-paced action or a clear-cut story. If you enjoy games that offer a more relaxed, atmospheric experience with engaging puzzles, Strinova is definitely worth checking out.

System Requirements

Minimum:
    Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
    OS *: Windows 7/8/10/11 64bit
    Processor: Intel Core i3-4170
    Memory: 4 GB RAM
    Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GT 730, AMD R7 240
    DirectX: Version 11
    Network: Broadband Internet connection
    Storage: 25 GB available space
    Sound Card: DirectX 11 sound device

Recommended:
    Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
    OS *: Windows 7/8/10/11 64bit
    Processor: Intel Core i5-7400
    Memory: 8 GB RAM
    Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050Ti,AMD Radeon R7 370
    DirectX: Version 11
    Network: Broadband Internet connection
    Storage: 25 GB available space
    Sound Card: DirectX 11 sound device