Monument Valley - Anniversary Edition: Behind the Scenes Content - A Review

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Introduction

Monument Valley, the critically acclaimed puzzle-adventure game by ustwo games, has captivated players with its mesmerizing Escher-inspired architecture, serene soundtrack, and emotional storytelling. To celebrate its legacy, the developers released Monument Valley: Anniversary Edition, an enhanced version featuring behind-the-scenes content, developer commentary, and additional levels.

This review delves into the Anniversary Edition, exploring its new features, the value of its behind-the-scenes insights, and whether it’s worth revisiting this indie masterpiece.

What’s New in the Anniversary Edition?

The Anniversary Edition isn’t just a simple re-release—it’s a love letter to fans. Here’s what sets it apart:

1. Behind-the-Scenes Developer Commentary

One of the most exciting additions is the developer commentary, offering insights into the game’s design, art direction, and narrative choices. Players can listen to the ustwo team discuss:

Inspiration Behind the Game: How M.C. Escher’s impossible geometry influenced the levels.
Art & Sound Design: The minimalist color palette and ambient soundtrack’s role in immersion.
Level Design Challenges: How puzzles were crafted to balance difficulty and elegance.

This feature is a treasure trove for aspiring game developers and fans curious about the creative process.

2. Unseen Concept Art & Early Sketches

The Anniversary Edition includes a gallery of never-before-seen concept art, showcasing early iterations of characters like Ida and the Crow People. Seeing how the game evolved visually adds depth to the experience.

3. New Levels & Expanded Story

While the core game remains unchanged, the Anniversary Edition introduces new levels that expand on Ida’s journey. These additions feel organic, blending seamlessly with the original’s aesthetic and puzzle mechanics.

4. Optimized for Modern Devices

The game has been updated for better performance on newer devices, with improved resolution and smoother animations.

The Value of Behind-the-Scenes Content

For many players, Monument Valley was more than just a game—it was an artistic experience. The Anniversary Edition enhances this by peeling back the curtain on its creation.

Why Developer Commentary Matters

Educational Insight: Aspiring game designers can learn about iterative design and storytelling in games.
Emotional Connection: Hearing the developers’ passion reinforces why the game resonates so deeply.
Hidden Details: Some commentary reveals subtle narrative choices, like the symbolism behind certain levels.

Concept Art as a Storytelling Tool

The included sketches and discarded ideas show how much thought went into every visual element. For example:

Early designs for Ida had more elaborate costumes, but simplicity won out.
Some levels were scrapped for being too complex or disrupting the game’s flow.

These glimpses into the creative process make the game feel even more special.

Is the Anniversary Edition Worth It?

For New Players

If you’ve never played Monument Valley, the Anniversary Edition is the definitive version. The additional content enriches the experience without overwhelming newcomers.

For Returning Fans

If you’ve already completed the original, the new levels and behind-the-scenes material offer fresh reasons to revisit the game. The developer commentary alone makes it worthwhile for die-hard fans.

For Game Design Enthusiasts

This edition is a must-have. The insights into level design, art direction, and sound engineering provide invaluable lessons in indie game development.

Final Verdict

Monument Valley: Anniversary Edition is more than a re-release—it’s a celebration of a modern classic. The behind-the-scenes content adds depth, making it essential for fans and newcomers alike. Whether you’re revisiting Ida’s journey or experiencing it for the first time, this edition offers a richer, more immersive way to engage with the game.

Rating: 9.5/10