science fiction video game
The Talos Principle
By Croteam, released 1 Jan 2014
- Linux
- Microsoft Windows
- macOS
- puzzle video game
What it is
The Talos Principle is a first-person puzzle game from Croteam, released in 2014 for Windows, macOS and Linux. It places you in a world of ancient ruins and advanced technology, where a creator sets you increasingly complex puzzles. More than 120 puzzles involve redirecting drones, manipulating laser beams and replicating time. You can choose your route through the non-linear world and solve challenges in different ways. Alongside the puzzles, the game explores humanity, technology and civilization through clues and questions about identity and purpose. It is a single-player game with Steam Achievements, Trading Cards, Cloud support and full controller support. Steam Workshop, a level editor, Remote Play on TV and Family Sharing are also listed. Choices have consequences, and the game suggests that someone is watching your actions. Its genres include science fiction puzzle, action, adventure and indie.
What players like, and what they don't
- More than 120 puzzles
- Non-linear world with multiple solving approaches
- Full controller support
- Includes level editor and Steam Workshop
- Available on Windows, macOS and Linux
- Single-player only
- Choices have consequences
Who it suits
It suits players who want solo puzzle-solving in a science-fiction setting, with a non-linear route and questions about humanity and technology. The level editor and Steam Workshop may also interest players who want to work with community-created content.
The Talos Principle combines a large puzzle set with a philosophical science-fiction story. Its non-linear structure lets players choose how they approach challenges.
