I play *a lot* of puzzle games. I have so many point and clicks in my library, tons of escape games and RPGs and the like. And yet, I couldn't get into this one. The puzzles are often tedious, they are mildly interesting but get boring quick, and there doesn't seem to be a real story. From what I've read, there's two endings but neither are very satisfying? Unless you like just solving mazes, I wouldn't really recommend this.

"The Witness" is a beautifully crafted and intellectually engaging puzzle game that challenges players to think deeply while exploring its stunning open world. The game excels in providing a sense of discovery and wonder, but it also comes with its share of frustrations.

The gameplay is undoubtedly fun and rewarding, offering puzzles that test logic, observation, and pattern recognition. However, some of the puzzles, particularly those in the city area, feel overly complex or unnecessarily obtuse. The lack of clear guidance often leaves you wandering aimlessly after solving one puzzle, unsure of where to go next. This design choice encourages exploration and rewards curiosity, but it can also lead to moments of frustration. Even the audio recordings scattered throughout the world, while intriguing, don't offer much help in guiding your progress.

The minimalist approach to storytelling and the absence of explicit instructions are bold design decisions that some players will love for the sense of freedom they provide. But for others, this can make the experience feel disjointed or confusing. The lack of any kind of map or guiding system makes it easy to get lost, both physically and mentally, as you try to piece together solutions.

Despite these challenges, "The Witness" is undeniably a unique and thought-provoking experience. Its gorgeous visuals and serene environment make wandering around its island a joy, even when you're stumped by a puzzle. If you enjoy games that test your intellect and patience in equal measure, "The Witness" might be the perfect adventure for you.

Overall, I recommend this game for those who love a challenge and don't mind the occasional frustration of figuring things out on their own. Just be prepared to invest time and effort—it’s not a casual stroll in the park.

Rating: 6/10
Pros: Beautiful visuals, engaging puzzles, promotes exploration.
Cons: Some puzzles feel overly convoluted, lack of guidance can be frustrating.

I'm impressed that I was able to finish the game with no walkthrough even tho it's suppose to be really hard and frustrating...
I guess it shows how well this game is designed I guess?