The winner of the minimalism-themed Ludum Dare 26 game jam, Mono, a Java game by Timtip Games, is a uniquely artistic top-down mix of puzzles and skill. In it, you must guide an eye through a series of colorful levels. Move with the [WASD] or [arrow keys], attempting to make your way to the purple diamond that marks the exit. Crashing into a red wall sends you back to the beginning, hitting certain gray walls activate triggers that move walls, and blue walls bounce you around. Each level mixes up the formula with shifting gravity, portals, procedural lighting, and all sorts of cool gimmicks.

Mono is over way too fast, but it is an incredibly satisfying work. It's a very tight experience: each of its eight levels is packed with evolving mechanics and clever design, supported by engaging visual design and a soothing soundtrack. A well-deserved victor, it's the kind of gem that is so densely packed with ideas, that one thinks it could only have come together through the pressure and constraints of the Ludum competition. Still, we can't wait to see what Timtip can come up with next, though, of course, we're okay with giving them a little more time.

Play Mono