Riven: The Sequel to Myst

 PC
Metascore
83

Generally favorable reviews - based on 12 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 12
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 12
  3. Negative: 1 out of 12
  1. Just Adventure
    100
    It's not only phenomenal gaming, but it's a work of art.
  2. Quandary
    100
    I thoroughly enjoyed it and it was well worth the wait. It's a perfect game for fans of this type of adventure and deserves to be every bit as popular as Myst.
  3. Game Revolution
    100
    This game is a masterpiece and is worth every single penny. If you've been excitedly waiting for Riven, never fear, you'll love it. This game has proved itself in all aspects, the only way someone could not like it is because it's too intellectually challenging, or they simply don't like these types of games.
  5. Gamezilla!
    92
    I really loved this game, even more than I enjoyed Myst, but I would advise adrenaline junkies to stay far, far away.
  6. Gaming Age
    91
    What I found was an extremely intelligent, involving quest through what is one of the best thought out, most beautiful worlds ever. If you're looking to test your brain, give Riven a try. Just remember, the world is a window into the psyche of the man who created it.
  7. Adventure Gamers
    90
    This game is so good that if I taught a class on interactive fiction I would use it as my example of how to create a great quality game.
  8. Adrenaline Vault
    90
    That dazzling indulgence for your eyes, coupled with the all-consuming sound effects, make this such an enjoyable world to just wander through, never mind the gameplay! And yet, one must mind the gameplay, because incredible design and story work were put into the action, and you're going to have your work cut out for you.
  9. RPG Fan
    86
    While it may not be hailed as a classic, genre-defining game, Riven was a very strong sequel, a difficult thing to do considering the widespread popularity of Myst.
  10. CPUGamer
    80
    It is extremely complex, and can get frustrating at times.
  11. GameSpot
    78
    It's a leisurely paced, all-encompassing, mentally challenging experience. If you enjoyed "Myst," you'll thoroughly enjoy Riven.
  12. All Game Guide
    50
    Much like Myst, the puzzles in Riven usually offer no explanations or any hints as to why you need to do them and what it will do. Most of them are extremely vague and illogical which leads to a very frustrating experience.
  13. PC Gamer
    40
    Even if you loved "Myst," you'll have a frustrating time with this sequel. If you do buy it, get your hands on the strategy guide ASAP. [Jan 1998, p.289]
    All this publication's reviews

Awards & Rankings

8
#8 Best PC Game of 1997
12
#12 Most Discussed PC Game of 1997
10
#10 Most Shared PC Game of 1997

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 35 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 28 out of 35
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 35
  3. Negative: 2 out of 35
  1. AnalogueB.
    May 2, 2007
    10
    A meticulously crafted masterpiece. Nearly 10 years after its original release, it still inspires a sense of awe. If only games were still A meticulously crafted masterpiece. Nearly 10 years after its original release, it still inspires a sense of awe. If only games were still made with such astonishing intricacy and lavish attention to detail.… Full Review »
  2. TedZ.
    Jul 12, 2004
    10
    The Myst series is one of my favorite around, and Riven is my favorite of the series. The slightly ominous undertone makes it one of my The Myst series is one of my favorite around, and Riven is my favorite of the series. The slightly ominous undertone makes it one of my favorite games. Ever.… Full Review »
  3. DannyV.
    Jan 4, 2007
    9
    Riven is a beautiful, challenging sequel that lives up to the original in every way. It may have been a bit too challenging, though.
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