User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 215 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 23 out of 215

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  1. Mar 23, 2023
    9
    Just wow. Its just amazing. You feel like always going through a wild fever dream trip.
  2. Nov 15, 2019
    10
    This game is simply mind bending and amazing. It’s like portal, but more about experiencing rather than puzzle solving. Your way of perceiving the environment will never be the same agin after finishing this game. Gameplay wise, the only mechanism is the forced perspective, it’s very tricky to explain to someone but amazingly intuitive. This level of innovation although is not quite PortalThis game is simply mind bending and amazing. It’s like portal, but more about experiencing rather than puzzle solving. Your way of perceiving the environment will never be the same agin after finishing this game. Gameplay wise, the only mechanism is the forced perspective, it’s very tricky to explain to someone but amazingly intuitive. This level of innovation although is not quite Portal level, it’s definitely good to see from floods of similar 3A titles these days. Expand
  3. Feb 8, 2020
    8
    Portal meets The Witness. You solve puzzles where there are 2 basic mechanics: 1) when you pick up an object, its physical size will depend on where in the scene you drag it - while the size of the object on the screen stays the same, 2) certain objects may first exist just as distorted pictures on walls, possibly even scattered across several 3d surfaces - when you look at them from thePortal meets The Witness. You solve puzzles where there are 2 basic mechanics: 1) when you pick up an object, its physical size will depend on where in the scene you drag it - while the size of the object on the screen stays the same, 2) certain objects may first exist just as distorted pictures on walls, possibly even scattered across several 3d surfaces - when you look at them from the correct spot, they visually align, and you can create the 3d object.

    Pros:
    - the novel mechanic of "physical size derived from render size on screen"
    - the novel mechanic of 3d geometry looking like something else from the direction where you'd approach it, and other ways of visually deceiving the player for a fun effect
    - some humor in the voice messages scattered throughout the levels

    So-so:
    - overall the game reminds Portal which is a double-edged sword: it feels familiar but you also expect some crazy story with colorful characters but instead the story is somewhat bland

    Cons:
    - levels feel a bit too repetitive, probably because there are too few 3D models which get recycled over and over.
    - somewhat laggy mouse. I don't know what engine they used or what it is exactly but the cursor doesn't immediately follow your mouse movements - as if the cursor were rendered in the scene, and frame rate were low

    Overall, Superliminal is more live than The Witness but doesn't reach the cult status of Portal. 8/10
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  4. Jan 1, 2022
    8
    Un juego de Puzzles bastante curioso que hace del engaño visual su arma para atraparte por completo en un supuesto sueño del que debes salir.
  5. Nov 13, 2019
    8
    It is pretty good. It doesn't have much of a story, and it isn't real deep. The puzzles are so simple it is more of a walking simulator along the lines of The Stanley Parable or The Beginner's Guide than something like Portal. It is also pretty pricey at $17 (that includes the 15% launch discount) for a 2-3 hour game. Plus it is only on the Epic store right now, for PC only, and has noIt is pretty good. It doesn't have much of a story, and it isn't real deep. The puzzles are so simple it is more of a walking simulator along the lines of The Stanley Parable or The Beginner's Guide than something like Portal. It is also pretty pricey at $17 (that includes the 15% launch discount) for a 2-3 hour game. Plus it is only on the Epic store right now, for PC only, and has no controller support.
    But personally I thought it was worth it overall. It was a fun, trippy walking simulator if nothing else. A couple sections were fun enough to play around with even though I knew how to continue on. I've spent that much on 2-hour movies that weren't nearly as entertaining.
    I would much rather waste $17 than 3 hours of my time. I thought this was worth my time. But if money matters to you, there are longer, better, cheaper puzzle games out there.
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  6. Nov 14, 2019
    9
    Amazing, but too short. The game is completed in about 4 hours, the walkthrough on YouTube is for 1.5
  7. Dec 28, 2019
    8
    It's fine though not a masterpiece but great. The main reason it's not a 10 is that the story and setting of it is very blunt to the point of being boring and cheesy though at least it doesn't resort to cheap jump scares like other games so at least it does that well. The other reason that makes it lose a point is that while the puzzles aren't necessarily unoriginal they do not make youIt's fine though not a masterpiece but great. The main reason it's not a 10 is that the story and setting of it is very blunt to the point of being boring and cheesy though at least it doesn't resort to cheap jump scares like other games so at least it does that well. The other reason that makes it lose a point is that while the puzzles aren't necessarily unoriginal they do not make you think they are revolutionary but they are still partly original especially if you haven't played that many 3d puzzle games before. Expand
  8. May 22, 2020
    10
    This is game is absolutely mind-blowing.
    Probably one of the best games I've played in my life time.
    Yes, it's short, but suffices to tell a good story.
  9. Jan 1, 2020
    10
    Superliminal is a brilliant puzzle game with relevant message to everyone. One of the most important indi-games of 2019 and fantastic ending of this year. Highly recommend!
  10. Nov 25, 2019
    10
    Superluminal is a fun and confusing puzzle game that's sure to make you think about your approach to many different obstacles. Without going too much in to detail, it's a journey of the mind that really forces you to wake up. Easily this is one of the best games post 2010.
  11. Dec 2, 2019
    8
    It's a mindbending game with inspiration from the Stanley parable I believe. very good, but short i finished it in one sitting.
  12. Jun 12, 2020
    8
    If you are a visual thinker and have high spacial intelligence you are going to love this game. Short but full of mind bending and funny notes.
  13. Nov 21, 2020
    10
    This game bug your mind and the show a different perspective about resolve problems
  14. Dec 15, 2019
    9
    Superliminal: If Portal and Antichamber had a baby.
    It's short--for me, about 2.5 hours. But this means it doesn't overstay its welcome.
    It's got a unique perspective-based game mechanic, and the game stretches this mechanic to its limit without becoming too repetitive. The puzzles were often very satisfying, and they became more obscure and interesting as the game went on. The story
    Superliminal: If Portal and Antichamber had a baby.
    It's short--for me, about 2.5 hours. But this means it doesn't overstay its welcome.
    It's got a unique perspective-based game mechanic, and the game stretches this mechanic to its limit without becoming too repetitive.
    The puzzles were often very satisfying, and they became more obscure and interesting as the game went on.
    The story is engaging but somewhat vague, and some of the story is told through the environment, like in the Portal games.
    But because of the nature of its gameplay--satisfaction coming from exploring a unique environment and finding the solutions to puzzles--it will not have much replay value. So if you're looking to get more mileage out of the $20 price point, this one may not be for you.
    Overall, Superliminal was a satisfying and unique experience, and if you don't mind the price for a once-through type game, pick it up.
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  15. Jun 19, 2021
    10
    Actually one of the most interesting puzzles i've played for last years. The mechanics of perspectives and optical illusions are mind-blowing features of Superliminal, as well as amazing music and pretty nice written story. It wasn't too long or too short, it wasn't too hard or too easy. That was a pleasurable process.
  16. Nov 22, 2019
    9
    Every once in awhile you are totally caught off guard by a game. You get a email with a review key, and you look at it with dread. I know you probably shouldn't. You should just go into games with open mind and accept your assignment, but when you're reviewing games daily it can get tiring and stale. Some times you see things , and just dread doing them. That is how I felt whenEvery once in awhile you are totally caught off guard by a game. You get a email with a review key, and you look at it with dread. I know you probably shouldn't. You should just go into games with open mind and accept your assignment, but when you're reviewing games daily it can get tiring and stale. Some times you see things , and just dread doing them. That is how I felt when "Superliminal" arrived. I thought here we go another indie puzzler "Who wants it" no one stepped up so I was like oh well guess it's mine. It didn't take long though to realize I had stumbled on to something really special. It took me back to he very first time I had discovered "Portal" Just a puzzler so intelligent , and unique in it's style. This might sound crazy, but "Superliminal" might actually go some where Portal didn't go. It might actually be more special. Note I'm not talking about Portal 2 the far more in depth title, but the original entry into the franchise. Superliminal brings first person puzzling a new element in depth perception and optical illusions.
    As you fall asleep with the TV on at 3AM, you remember catching a glimpse of the commercial from Dr.Pierce’s Somnasculpt dream therapy program. By the time you open your eyes, you’re already dreaming - beginning the first stages of this experimental program. That is the description given by the development team at Pillow Castle. It is just a really original and unique feeling. You have no idea what is going on, and why you are trying to solve these puzzles, you just do. As you advance and advance nothing ever feels the same, and that is rare from a puzzler. That usual repetitive feeling of puzzlers just isn't there. Every area looks and feels totally different. They all look amazing as well. The beautiful colors and well designed levels are just so easy on the eyes, You will find yourself looking at them for a good amount of time just trying to find your way so it's good they put so much time into their perfection. I can't put into words just how great these environments look and feel. I kind of worry that my intelligence level in description won't do this game justice either. The game is just so smart that way. It really never frustrates you, but still tests you at the same time. I wish i was better with words when it comes to reviewing "Superliminal" I hope maybe my score for it will help with expressing how I felt about it. I feel it's the best puzzler of 2019, and maybe the best since Portal 2.
    I would usually talk about music, but there really isn't any. I think that aids in the feeling of isolation. I think you really feel like you are there trying to escape. The narrator delivers almost the same level of excellence that Glados did. You really question yourself who is this guy, and why has he put me here. That sticks with you all the way into completion when it all comes together.
    Is this for you? If you like puzzlers with out question. I'm not the guy that says not my genre. As a reviewer and gamer, I'm open to all types of games. I've never been one dimensional at anything though. I've always enjoyed different types of movies, foods, drinks etc. I've always went at life with I don't want to miss out on something , because I was to set in my ways. That has led me to many of great experiences. "Superliminal" will go into that category for me. I'm glad I decided to go against my original thoughts and ideas, and I hope you will to if given the chance to play this. It is so worth your time, and it is so not like anything else. If your feeling the grind of repetitive games I highly recommend you run over to the Epic Games Store and give it a try.

    Pros: Beautiful well designed levels
    Realistic sounds and amazing narration
    Unique ideas and game play
    Spot on controls

    Cons: Wish it was a little longer

    Overall: 9.0 Superliminal is one of those games that just sneaks up on you, and sucks you in. In my opinion a puzzler Game of the Year contender. Would be my pick without question. Most fun I've had puzzling since Portal 2.
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  17. Nov 13, 2019
    8
    Un juego de puzzles 3D, muy al estilo Portal o Qube.
    Cuenta con una dinámica de juego innovadora que consiste en jugar con la perspectiva de los objetos, haciéndolos grandes o pequeños, según se necesite para resolver el puzzle.
    Es un juego sumamente fácil y se termina en menos de 2hs. Sin embargo es de esos pocos juegos que sientes que te deja algo al terminarlo...quizá te vuelvas más
    Un juego de puzzles 3D, muy al estilo Portal o Qube.
    Cuenta con una dinámica de juego innovadora que consiste en jugar con la perspectiva de los objetos, haciéndolos grandes o pequeños, según se necesite para resolver el puzzle.
    Es un juego sumamente fácil y se termina en menos de 2hs.
    Sin embargo es de esos pocos juegos que sientes que te deja algo al terminarlo...quizá te vuelvas más creativo al terminar este juego.
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  18. Nov 13, 2019
    9
    Amazing game! Graphics are amazing, easy to control and interesting mechanics! Although the game is slightly buggy it is still a blast to play!
  19. Nov 14, 2019
    9
    I don't know what all the people saying "it doesn't have a story" are talking about. They told the story they wanted to tell, and personally I enjoyed that far more than if they made it "deep" or bent it to what other people might have wanted to see. The only reason this isn't a 10 is because I ran into a single bug that made me re play part of a level. The overall graphics execution isI don't know what all the people saying "it doesn't have a story" are talking about. They told the story they wanted to tell, and personally I enjoyed that far more than if they made it "deep" or bent it to what other people might have wanted to see. The only reason this isn't a 10 is because I ran into a single bug that made me re play part of a level. The overall graphics execution is amazing, except for their lack of efficient shadow maps or whatever in a random room somewhere. The overall gameplay is one of the most unique things I've experienced.

    At multiple places I thought I was stuck, and then I figured out what clever trick they played on me. Most puzzle games I have had to use a walkthrough or tutorial to figure out, but not this one. Puzzles in this were perfectly made to be figured out not instantly, but after some work. Although its playtime is only around 4 hours, those hours are totally worth it.

    Overall pros: Incredibly unique, fun as a casual puzzle game, engaging but not hardcore story.

    Overall cons: Occasionally glitchy, some FPS drops, shorter than many games at the same price point.

    You should get it if: You don't want to play a normal game, you want a completely new concept, you liked portal or inception.

    You shouldn't get it if: You don't like games that don't play fair, you get frustrated easily, you are pinching pennies and want 20 hours of entertainment for $20
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  20. Jan 28, 2020
    10
    Amazing game. I already knew the programmer did an amazing job, but i was not expecting the story and soundtrack to be amazing too. Not too challenging but it's duration made the game not tiresome (The game was short but it gave you a blast for those few hours). A lot of people didn't get the message of the story. Minor spoiler if you can't finish a 2-4 hour game. The final phrase reallyAmazing game. I already knew the programmer did an amazing job, but i was not expecting the story and soundtrack to be amazing too. Not too challenging but it's duration made the game not tiresome (The game was short but it gave you a blast for those few hours). A lot of people didn't get the message of the story. Minor spoiler if you can't finish a 2-4 hour game. The final phrase really made me realize how we use games as an escape from our problems. Expand
  21. Mar 16, 2020
    10
    Це, напевно, найкраща гра у світі!
    Як тільки я побачив трейлер, я зрозумів - це саме те, чого не вистачало ігровій індустрії. Глибокий підтекст, затягуючий геймплей та незвичайна стилістика, цього виявилося цілком достатньо, щоб створити гру на десятиліття.
    Це, напевно, найкраща гра у світі!
    Як тільки я побачив трейлер, я зрозумів - це саме те, чого не вистачало ігровій індустрії. Глибокий підтекст, затягуючий геймплей та незвичайна стилістика, цього виявилося цілком достатньо, щоб створити гру на десятиліття.
  22. Jun 13, 2020
    10
    Superliminal is by far the bast game I played in the last few years. Even though it starts as a puzzle solving game that has a funny way of dealing with physics, the story is what caught me the most. especially in the last 20 minutes. It kind of reminded me of Kafkas "Trial" when you did not really know what was going on around you, but you just knew that you needed to comply in hope thatSuperliminal is by far the bast game I played in the last few years. Even though it starts as a puzzle solving game that has a funny way of dealing with physics, the story is what caught me the most. especially in the last 20 minutes. It kind of reminded me of Kafkas "Trial" when you did not really know what was going on around you, but you just knew that you needed to comply in hope that it will end.
    There was so much love put into the game, which makes it so awesome to play. I can only recommend to play this if you want to have a good time.
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  23. Sep 20, 2020
    10
    A really really good game. Great atmosphere, Great Soundtracks. One of the best puzzle games I've ever played
  24. Aug 5, 2020
    9
    ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍
  25. Jun 28, 2020
    10
    Simply the most unique and awesome experience I've head in a video game! Must play for anyone who's looking for smth mindblowing!
  26. Jun 29, 2020
    10
    Вообщем напишу на русском, эта игра - это действительно новые ощущения лично у меня за последние лет 5, некоторые головоломки просто взрывают мозг от того, что ты понимаешь как они проходятся и это очень круто. Решение головоломок очень не стандартно и действительно как мне кажется ново для игровой индустрии. При этом в игре есть жизненная мораль. Спасибо авторам данного творение, яВообщем напишу на русском, эта игра - это действительно новые ощущения лично у меня за последние лет 5, некоторые головоломки просто взрывают мозг от того, что ты понимаешь как они проходятся и это очень круто. Решение головоломок очень не стандартно и действительно как мне кажется ново для игровой индустрии. При этом в игре есть жизненная мораль. Спасибо авторам данного творение, я получил огромное удовольствие ! Expand
  27. Jul 7, 2020
    9
    Great inventive puzzles. There are some moments that genuinely surprised me in there inventiveness and the way the mechanics worked. The sound design is brilliant. The visuals vary from quite basic to areas where the use of colour and perspective is something to behold. Would advise to anybody who enjoys first person puzzle games. Loved it.
  28. Jul 12, 2020
    8
    This is such a good puzzle game with a very profound ending. The controls can be a little frustrating at times and you can break a puzzle once or twice but other than that it’s a perfect game. Would definitely recommend it.
  29. Aug 22, 2020
    10
    Not since portal have I felt so gobsmacked by a game. There is some moments of utter brilliance that left me gasping for more!
Metascore
74

Mixed or average reviews - based on 35 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 35
  2. Negative: 1 out of 35
  1. Dec 14, 2020
    80
    The forced perspective game mechanic alone makes Superliminal an essential buy for those looking for a new first-person puzzler. Both mind-bogglingly clever and hilarious use of environmental storytelling, the potential to be a classic is limited by its short play time and unnecessary exposition.
  2. Nov 26, 2020
    70
    Superliminal offers unique gameplay elements for a fun evening, but the experience won’t leave an impact. Its perspective features turn out to be more of a novelty or a practical tech demo than a way to create an engaging narrative. While that alone might make it worth giving a try if you’re looking for an interesting experience, the idea of Superliminal works better on paper than in execution.
  3. Nov 25, 2020
    70
    Superliminal is still a really solid puzzle game. Its innovative main mechanic is worth the price of admission alone, with Pillow Castle taking the time to evolve and experiment with the mechanic so no two levels are ever exactly the same. What it lacks in challenge, story, and length it makes up for with its commitment to its perspective-based premise, carving a genuinely fun puzzler that's sure to leave aficionados of the genre satisfied.