If there’s one thing I have learned from playing so many new releases, it’s that games don’t have to be revolutionary in order to be good. Planet of Lana has a similar structure to other adventure puzzle games, like Limbo, but something about it feels much more special. Bouncing from stressful situations to relaxing images and sounds, Planet of Lana feels like somebody tried to make Spielberg’s War of the Worlds into a cozy game. I know that sounds impossible, so I’ll dive right into how this combination works to create such a big experience in a small package.
Upon launching Planet of Lana, the first thing to catch your attention will undoubtedly be the graphics. Developers at Wishfully managed to create a minimalistic environment that’s still multidimensional and full of minor details. Even with many varied environments, every part of this game is so aesthetically pleasing that I didn’t mind that I was literally just running for half of it. Continuing with a minimalist approach, the gameplay really only requires a few controls. Moving left or right, Lana occasionally commands her feline companion, Mui, to aid in her quest. Hoping to rescue her sister from the destructive robots that have taken over the planet, Lana also seeks to restore her chaotic home to its previously tranquil state. Of course, occasionally trying to survive monsters or killer robots is bound to get your heart pumping, but so much of this game is meant to inspire a peaceful state. In the few hours it takes to beat Planet of Lana, cutscenes are few and nearly indistinguishable from regular gameplay. Typically signaled by a brief transition, the only other indicator that you are in a cutscene is the inability to control Lana as things keep rolling without you. Honestly, I was so enamored by the graphics and peaceful images that it took me a long time to realize I was even watching a cutscene. Looking back, though they barely progress the story, cutscenes provide an opportunity for the audience to take a pause and enjoy the scenery.
One of my biggest problems with puzzle games is that they never feel long enough– Planet of Lana is no exception. There are many points at which you are simply moving from one place to the next, and this probably makes up nearly half of the five hours it took me to beat it. For the most part, the puzzles are so simple that they require minimal problem-solving, but their execution is another story. Still, I started wishing that they’d occur a little more frequently. Even if the puzzles had been repeated in varied scenes, the game would’ve felt more involved. Knowing that this layout contributed to the overall tone and pace of the game, I understand that it would’ve taken away from the moments of serenity Planet of Lana wants gamers to experience.
Adventure puzzle games are a niche genre, but the appeal of Planet of Lana is that it offers so much more than others of its kind. With its spellbinding graphics and distinctive score, Planet of Lana marries conflicting moods into one quirky package. I can’t say I’m not disappointed in its ease and length, but that’s what makes it perfect for those moments when longer games feel too consuming. Similarly, its availability on Nintendo Switch means it’s excellent for travel or just on-the-go in general. Even if puzzle games aren’t in your normal repertoire, anybody who can appreciate picturesque landscapes and euphonious orchestral arrangements will enjoy Planet of Lana. In fact, I’d say the game was created specifically with them in mind.
Score: 8 out of 10
Reviewed on PlayStation 5