Riven

When Riven was first released in 1997 it was heralded as a majestic piece of art. Now almost 30 years later, Cyan Worlds returns to that world, bringing it to modern standards using the tools of today. Once again, they’ve created a majestic piece of art, and a world worth exploring all over again. It’ll test your mind, it’s a feast for your eyes and ears, and if you enjoy deep puzzles, it’s a game you absolutely cannot miss.

Riven (2024) confidently reimagines the beloved 1997 point-and-click puzzle game, which both long-time Myst franchise fans and newcomers seeking a challenging yet rewarding experience will love.

To be this good takes Ages.

Much like its updated predecessor RIVEN is an incredible remake of one of gaming's most iconic puzzle games.

Mechanically, Riven runs well as a first-person puzzle game. As opposed to the static maps of the original, this remake features full 3D places to wander and get lost in. That might be standard for a modern remake, but this version of Riven feels more natural than the original, almost as if this is the fullest realization of what the game was capable of. It's not perfect, by any means. The screenshot journal mechanic is a nice touch, but accessing it can be a little tiresome. The inventory system is also a little buggy visually, but not enough to be annoying. Overall, these are very minor issu...

I knew going in that Riven was a remake of an older game, but it took me a while before I remembered the full original title: Riven 2: The Sequel to Myst. The title might conjure up an older, more opaque era of gaming. That’s a great reason to remake a game. With a classic story and even more classic puzzles, the original Myst games should be a staple. Unfortunately, as we a lot of old games, it can be a pain to get working. Even then you have to contend with old interfaces and antiquated menu. That’s why game remakes have so much potential. So does the new Riven stand toe-to-toe with the clas...

The new version of Riven is a beautiful addition to the Myst series with addition to detail in its fully rendered environments, and plenty of exploration to be had despite some obscure puzzles.

The original Riven (1997) was an epic follow-up to the seminal early 90’s point-and-click adventure game Myst. Shipping on no less than five compact discs back in the day it was a massive release, and turned out to be one of the most highly anticipated and biggest-selling games of the year.

Updated for modern systems, Riven reminds us why it's a classic adventure game. Perhaps a bit short now, occasionally obtuse in its puzzles, but still visually stunning and engaging.

Riven is another beautifully assembled upgrade of a classic for Cyan Worlds, and it seems to play more wonderfully than ever. The puzzles and exploration feel immersive, even if it gets a bit unwieldy with a lot of back and forth between the islands as you come back to solve certain puzzles later. Even then, the returning Notebook system does a great job of aiding in the easy access of clues and information if you use it effectively. With that said, this is also just a beautiful game to explore and whether you’re a returning player or discovering Riven for the first time, it's likely to be a p...

Driven isn't an especially deep or involving game, but it is one that provides a pleasant diversion every now and then. Even if you can't be bothered with finishing the story, an occasional jaunt around one of the tracks in practice mode is fun when you've got a spare ten minutes or so. It's worth persevering with the game in the long haul though, even if only to unlock the secret cars and new tracks. Give it a shot if you haven't got your eye on anything else.