Monument Valley - Anniversary Edition: Developer Commentary - A Review
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Introduction
Monument Valley, the critically acclaimed puzzle game by ustwo games, has captivated players with its mesmerizing Escher-inspired architecture and serene storytelling. With the release of Monument Valley - Anniversary Edition, the developers have not only remastered the original experience but also added an insightful Developer Commentary mode, offering players a behind-the-scenes look at the game’s creation.
This review explores the Anniversary Edition, focusing on the Developer Commentary feature, its impact on player appreciation, and whether this edition is worth revisiting—or experiencing for the first time.
The Legacy of Monument Valley
Before diving into the Anniversary Edition, it’s essential to acknowledge the original game’s impact. Released in 2014, Monument Valley redefined mobile gaming with its:
- Stunning Visual Design – Inspired by M.C. Escher’s impossible geometry, the game’s optical illusions and pastel-colored landscapes created a dreamlike world.
- Minimalist Storytelling – The tale of Princess Ida’s journey through silent, surreal monuments resonated emotionally without heavy dialogue.
- Innovative Puzzles – Players manipulated impossible structures, shifting perspectives to uncover hidden paths.
The game won multiple awards, including Apple’s Design Award, and became a benchmark for artistic mobile games.
What’s New in the Anniversary Edition?
The Anniversary Edition isn’t just a simple remaster—it enhances the original with:
1. Developer Commentary Mode
The standout addition is the Developer Commentary, where ustwo’s team shares insights on:
- Level Design Philosophy – How they crafted impossible spaces that still felt intuitive.
- Art Direction – The influences behind the game’s ethereal aesthetic.
- Soundtrack & Ambience – Composer Stafford Bawler discusses the minimalist yet evocative score.
- Narrative Choices – Why the story remains wordless yet deeply emotional.
This feature transforms the game from a passive experience into an interactive documentary, deepening players’ appreciation for the craftsmanship behind Monument Valley.
2. Enhanced Visuals & Performance
While the original already looked stunning, the Anniversary Edition refines textures and animations, ensuring the game remains visually timeless on modern devices.
3. Additional Behind-the-Scenes Content
Beyond commentary, players can unlock concept art, early sketches, and prototype footage, offering a rare glimpse into the game’s evolution.
The Value of Developer Commentary
Many games include commentary tracks (e.g., Portal, Half-Life 2), but few do so as elegantly as Monument Valley. Here’s why it works:
A. Deepens Emotional Connection
Hearing the developers discuss how they designed Ida’s journey—balancing melancholy and wonder—adds new layers to the experience. Players who once saw the game as a simple puzzle adventure may now recognize its deeper themes of redemption and self-discovery.
B. Educational for Aspiring Game Designers
The commentary serves as a masterclass in:
- Minimalist Game Design – How less can be more in storytelling.
- Player Psychology – Why certain illusions "feel" correct even when they defy logic.
- Iterative Development – How levels evolved from rough sketches to polished puzzles.
C. Encourages Replayability
Even veterans of Monument Valley will find fresh reasons to revisit levels after hearing the developers’ perspectives.
Is the Anniversary Edition Worth It?
For New Players:
Absolutely. The Anniversary Edition is the definitive way to experience Monument Valley, blending the original magic with enriching context.
For Returning Players:
If you’ve played before, the Developer Commentary justifies a revisit. The insights are fascinating, and the added content makes it feel like a new experience.
For Game Design Enthusiasts:
This is a must-play. The commentary is a rare, candid look at indie game development at its finest.
Final Verdict
Monument Valley - Anniversary Edition is more than a remaster—it’s a love letter to the game’s legacy. The Developer Commentary doesn’t just explain how the game was made; it enhances why it remains a masterpiece.
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
