Puzzle games range from the simplistic to exceedingly difficult to something in between. But there’s always a certain set of rules to follow, such as stepping a triangle pad activating something with a triangle on it, or a specific type of key opening a specific kind of door. Rules are meant to be followed so that the puzzle can be solved. However, developers Hempuli Oy decided that they wanted to make a puzzle game where the player recreates the rules as they play, and that game is Baba is You:
Baba is You is a small puzzle game where players fill the role as a small rabbit-looking pixelate blob named Baba. The rules are, well, to win, and that’s about it. The mechanics, however, are a little less straightforward than the end goal. Baba can move certain things around by pushing on them, and can also change the status of itself, or the things around it. The trailer shows that a little bit with Baba becoming a rock, instead of the little bunny blob. Rules aren’t set in stone, aside from what Baba pushes into place to make the rules.
There are over 200 different levels, and each one presents this mechanic in a different way. Some levels can be an absolute breeze, others could stump players for a while. But the game is unique in both its style and the way it has rules, or lack thereof.
Baba is You was originally made for the Nordic Game Jam back in 2017, and won first place. It has since then been developing as having more puzzles added, more unique mechanics and enemies or trials for the tiny little rabbit blob to go through. And now, the full version is finally out.
Baba is You is out now on PC and Nintendo Switch for $14.99 USD and brings the charm, the character, and the lack of continuity to puzzle games. Check out the Steam page for more information about the game.