I’ve charted winding valleys, scaled Impossible Monoliths, and hunted for hidden treasures in countless open worlds. Yet Monument Valley 3 by ustwo games still managed to captivate me in surprising ways. Guiding Noor through illusions and atmospheric puzzles, I was swept into a brief but enchanting voyage. Here’s how this chapter stacks up—what shines, what stumbles, and whether it deserves a place in your puzzle-adventure library.
Overall Impressions
From the moment Noor steps onto her first shifting platform, Monument Valley 3 feels like the polished successor fans expected. Its charm lies in elegant simplicity. Each stage plays like a delicate mechanical toy, waiting to be twisted into new forms. What impresses most is the polish—stone textures, soft ambient light, and the Sacred Light’s subtle glow breathe life into the Escher-inspired worlds.
The downside is the game’s length. At only 90 minutes of core content, it’s the shortest entry yet. Players often describe it as “short, sweet, solid.” With no extra content at launch, the story feels unfinished. Still, promised expansions and free levels this winter hint at a richer mosaic to come.
Gameplay Mechanics
Monument Valley 3 builds on the series by refining rather than reinventing. The core remains: illusions and optical tricks that shift with a swipe or tap. Controls feel precise, with each rotation revealing hidden paths instantly. This responsiveness pairs with clever level design, sparking wonder as chambers reshape before your eyes.
Yet long-time fans may feel underwhelmed. Puzzles are simpler, with fewer layered challenges than past games. Many solutions lean straightforward. Without side quests or bonus rooms, the experience ends too soon. Newcomers will find it accessible, but veterans may crave more depth and longer play.
Still, there are standout moments. Chapter 4 shines as Noor manipulates three crystal gears, folding architecture over itself in dazzling fashion. It captures the childlike thrill the series is known for, proving Monument Valley 3 remains a thoughtful, artistic puzzle journey.
Story and Characters
This time, the story follows Noor, a spirited guide searching for the Sacred Light. Unlike past silent princesses, she whispers softly as narration, enriching the dreamlike tone without overwhelming it. The story stays minimal, more fragments of myth than full tale. Yet etched glyphs, shifting shadows, and Noor’s words add emotional depth.
Her solo journey means fewer character dynamics than earlier duets. Even so, Noor’s presence feels intimate and sincere. She balances mystery with heartfelt wonder, giving the adventure a personal touch.
Visuals and Graphics
Monument Valley 3 is the most visually stunning entry. It blends pastel tones with rich textures, dynamic lighting, and delicate effects that trail Noor’s path. Each stage feels handcrafted, with marble pillars, rippling water, and flocks of birds creating worlds both calm and alive.
Smooth pans and zooms highlight hidden details without breaking flow. The result is gameplay that feels artistic and interactive. Compared to its predecessors, this entry resembles a remastered classic—minimalist design elevated into breathtaking visual art.
Sound and Music
David Kanaga’s soundtrack amplifies the dreamlike atmosphere. Meditative piano motifs, distant chimes, and immersive effects create a cohesive soundscape. Gears click, platforms hum, and Noor’s presence echoes in the halls.
Narration appears as whispering text instead of voice, keeping the serene tone. Ambient touches—bird calls and falling leaves—invite players to pause and absorb the world.
Difficulty and Replayability
This entry leans toward accessibility. Puzzles are short and approachable, wrapping up in minutes. Completionists can still chase hidden glyphs and secret paths, but the lack of alternate solutions or time trials limits replay depth.
The main campaign is delightful but feels like one slice of a larger whole. Many note its brevity. The real hook is the free updates promised for winter, which should expand its life and variety.
Final Thoughts
Monument Valley 3 is a masterclass in distilled design—elegant, serene, and visually striking. Shorter playtime and simpler puzzles may disappoint veterans. Yet its beauty, polish, and calming pace capture the series’ spirit.
As someone who explores vast open worlds, I was surprised to be enthralled by these miniature realms.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
In the end, Monument Valley 3 stands as a worthy jewel in ustwo games’ crown—one I’ll gladly revisit once winter brings the next set of levels. Whether you’re a returning traveler or a newcomer curious about this beguiling series, Noor’s adventure is well worth the voyage.
