After a long day, sometimes I don’t want to play anything that requires a lot of action. Sometimes I want to relax and enjoy something a little more casual. I often lean toward puzzle games for this, but there are a variety of options to choose from. The Shape of Things mixes cozy vibes with engaging puzzles, creating a simple yet satisfying package.

There isn’t really a story in The Shape of Things. The game revolves around solving puzzles by putting objects together. Each puzzle is different and may require you to rotate, slide, or change the size of pieces in order to complete the puzzle. Each puzzle earns you coins, which you can use to unlock new puzzle worlds via a Gachapon machine.

Make no mistake, there are no in-game purchases involved here. Every level and puzzle can be unlocked purely by solving puzzles and enjoying the relaxing, cozy vibes. The best part about this is that there are no time limits or fail states. You can just play and work on a puzzle until you’ve either finished it, or you need to take a break. In this vein, The Shape of Things is easy to pick up and put down, letting you just take your time and enjoy it at your leisure.

The controls for The Shape of Things are simple, and in this regard, it also winds up being very accessible. You can play it with only one hand, and on Switch technically you’d only need a single Joycon, though I played with a Pro Controller. It is perfect for a day when you just don’t feel like playing anything that is reflex-intensive or demanding on the hands.

Truth be told, there isn’t all that much to review here. The Shape of Things is a simple game, but it does everything it advertises very well. The levels and items are colorful, the puzzles are challenging but not too punishing, and they provide a relaxing escape from the chaos of day-to-day life. Being able to take it on the go (on Switch) makes The Shape of Things perfect for car trips, bus rides to work, or wind-down time in bed after a long day.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, casual puzzle game, The Shape of Things fits the bill. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a gift for someone who loves puzzles, brain teasers, or more casual games, you’ve got a good option here. It may be a small, simple game, but sometimes the simplest concepts are the best ones.

A Nintendo Switch review copy of The Shape of Things was provided by Maple Whispering Limited for this review.

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The Shape of Things

$6.99

9

Score

9.0/10

Pros

• Cozy, Calm Puzzles
• Simple Controls
• Accessible Gameplay
• Easy to Pick up and play

Cons

• Puzzles are a little simplistic sometimes