Munin Reviews

[h3]Scandinavian Rubik's Cube

such a fun puzzle game!

Munin is a clever and atmospheric 2D puzzle-platformer developed by Gojira and published by Daedalic Entertainment that stands out for its unique blend of Norse mythology and innovative level design. Released in 2014, the game casts players as Munin, one of Odin’s two raven messengers, who has been transformed into a mortal by the trickster god Loki. To regain her feathers and divine form, Munin must traverse nine mythological worlds, each inspired by the realms of Norse legend. The game’s minimalist narrative is enriched by its moody aesthetics, runic symbolism, and haunting soundtrack, creating an experience that feels both cerebral and deeply rooted in mythological lore. The core gameplay mechanic of Munin revolves around rotating parts of the environment to solve traversal-based puzzles. Instead of giving players traditional jumping or combat abilities, the game’s innovation lies in allowing players to manipulate sections of each level—rotating platforms, walls, and entire structures by 90 degrees to alter gravity and open up new paths. This mechanic transforms the platforming experience into a spatial puzzle challenge, requiring players to think geometrically and anticipate the consequences of each rotation. As the game progresses, new mechanics are gradually introduced—such as water, lava, boulders, and movable platforms—that interact with the rotation system in increasingly complex ways. Each of the game’s 77 levels is meticulously designed to challenge a player’s logic and spatial awareness without relying on reflex-based action. There is no time pressure or enemy threats, making Munin a purely contemplative experience. This slower pace may not appeal to everyone, especially those looking for fast-paced platforming or action-heavy gameplay, but it perfectly suits the game’s puzzle-focused design and mythological atmosphere. The difficulty curve is steady but unforgiving at times; some puzzles can feel particularly opaque or demand trial-and-error experimentation, though the sense of reward upon solving them is consistently satisfying. Visually, Munin embraces a subdued, hand-drawn art style with a muted color palette that complements its somber, mythic tone. Each world is distinct in aesthetic, representing different realms from Norse mythology—like fiery Muspelheim, misty Niflheim, and forested Alfheim—each with environmental themes that influence the puzzles within them. The visual storytelling is subtle but effective, with backgrounds filled with runes, silhouettes of mythical creatures, and ancient ruins that quietly reinforce the game’s setting and lore. The sound design also contributes significantly to the game’s immersive quality. The ambient soundtrack is sparse but atmospheric, combining soft instrumental melodies with echoing, mythic tones that reinforce the sense of isolation and divinity lost. Sound effects are minimal but purposeful, underscoring key actions like rotations and environmental interactions, giving the game a quiet intensity that enhances focus and reflection. One of the game’s strengths is how well it respects the intelligence of its players. Munin doesn’t rely on tutorials or over-explaining mechanics. Instead, it lets players experiment and discover through interaction, which feels empowering but can also lead to moments of frustration when a puzzle’s logic feels unclear. A more robust hint system or optional guidance might have helped maintain momentum during some of the tougher levels. Additionally, the game’s lack of variety in character animation and a somewhat static protagonist can make long play sessions feel visually repetitive, despite the thematic diversity across worlds. In conclusion, Munin is a thoughtful, challenging puzzle-platformer that offers a unique gameplay hook wrapped in a rich mythological setting. Its core mechanic of rotating environments is not just a gimmick but a fully realized system that consistently tests and rewards player intelligence and patience. While it may not be for everyone—particularly those seeking action or quick gratification—Munin excels at what it sets out to do: deliver a cerebral, myth-infused puzzle experience with atmosphere, ingenuity, and quiet depth. For fans of mythology, challenging puzzles, and games that dare to do something different, Munin is a rewarding journey worth taking. Rating: 8/10