Overall, this game is an intuitive escape room, and innovative puzzles woven into an intriguing setting keep things interesting. The sophisticated user interface and rich details make downloading entirely worth it. Unlike many point and click mouse games that involve only passwords and pixel hunting, Paradox maintains interactive, engaging, and dynamic gameplay that, combined with references to the accompanying film, makes the entire experience feel deeply realistic. For younger players, analog technology featured in the game may be a rarity - decrypting the functionalities may be a puzzle in itself.

Maintaining the Cube Escape brand are consistent overtones of unease, confusion, and paranoia. Besides sound and animation, the game's multimedia elements contribute to this "Uncanny Valley." Blessedly so, Paradox clearly ties to other Cube Escape installments. The player begins to gain some clarity into the hows and whys of what's been happening at Rusty Lake. Easter eggs and references to previous Cube Escapes provide a cohesiveness to the series; however, real, solid answers are still diamonds in a coal mine.

Rusty Lake generously provides the download for free, but it clearly deserves a small donation. For longtime fans, Paradox - Chapter 1 is a must play, then quickly on to Chapter 2. For those stumbling into the series for the first time, well - you've got a long night ahead of you.

Windows:
Get the full version

Mac OS X:
Get the full version

Cube Escape Paradox - Chapter 1 (Android, Android Tablet)

Cube Escape Paradox - Chapter 1 (iPhone,iPad)