If you’re someone who struggles with Blue Prince, the puzzle game set in a quirky mansion, you’re not alone—this is a place where judgment should be left at the door. Although some critics and puzzle enthusiasts hail it as one of the best games of the year, largely due to its unique twist on math puzzles, don’t be intimidated. These puzzles employ their own set of fictional rules that might require some guidance, and there’s no harm in seeking help when you hit a mental block.
When I initially dove into Blue Prince, I expected a gameplay experience similar to Outer Wilds, where solving puzzles unravels the game’s narrative. While Blue Prince does offer snippets of story through scattered notes and newspapers, its primary focus is honing your skills to overcome the puzzles of a mechanical mansion. These challenges often seem unrelated to the storyline and exist primarily to aid your daily advancement through the game.
There’s definitely a rewarding feeling that comes from solving puzzles on your own, but don’t shy away from consulting a guide if you get stuck. This game doesn’t unravel due to a bit of external input. For example, many puzzles will only give you clues about the logic involved, such as the sequence you should follow or what to watch for. Even though the math puzzles change daily, meaning you can’t just jot down answers, understanding the mechanics behind them is still crucial.
Some puzzles maintain their consistency but require awareness of their presence before you even know they’re there. A quick guide read can help you get through those tricky spots where progress feels impossible. It can also provide insight into the game’s layout as you begin. Around day 30, I noticed a pattern in the rooms and turned to Google to confirm my theory. After seeing lots of related discussions, I chose to keep playing and discovered more as I proceeded.
There are times when your efforts in Blue Prince might feel fruitless, especially before you’ve mastered strategic room planning. Early on, you might find yourself frequently facing dead ends with no discernible leads. While this becomes more manageable with experience, occasional unproductive runs persist. Specific puzzle-related rooms don’t always appear when you need them, and sometimes you won’t have the right items on hand.
When the stars align and you’re eager to make headway, don’t hesitate to consult a guide or ask a friend for advice. You might be surprised by how much others have uncovered, even after more than 100 hours of play. Every puzzle won’t click for everyone, and sometimes a small hint can set you back on track.
