Welcome to a space where we’re free to admit it: not everyone excels at Blue Prince, that popular puzzle game where you explore an eccentric mansion. Surprisingly, even with its quirky math challenges, it’s being praised by critics and puzzle lovers alike as a standout game this year. Who would’ve thought a game involving bizarre mathematical rules could captivate so many? But let me assure you, there’s no shame in seeking a little help with those tricky rules—or any other part of the game that leaves you scratching your head. Spoiling a few details won’t diminish the fun.
I approached Blue Prince with the expectation that it would be reminiscent of Outer Wilds, a game where solving puzzles gradually unveils the narrative. Blue Prince shares some similarities, yet it distinguishes itself. While abandoned notes and old newspapers offer some context, the game’s core is about navigating and mastering its intricate mansion. Puzzles are scattered throughout, often loosely connected to the storyline, existing mainly to aid your daily progress within the mansion.
Sure, there’s undeniable satisfaction in solving every puzzle independently, but sometimes a little cheating by consulting a guide can boost your enjoyment. With Blue Prince, spoilers don’t necessarily wreck the game. Typically, you’re only getting insights into the puzzle’s logic—like the sequence or elements you need to consider. Take the math puzzles, for instance. They’re fresh each day, and although you might decipher the meaning of each color, the actual equations are still yours to tackle anew.
Meanwhile, some puzzles stay the same, yet they expect you to know what clues to seek before acknowledging a puzzle even exists. A minor peek into a guide can be incredibly helpful when you find yourself stuck, unable to advance. These guides can also clarify the game’s mechanics when you’re just starting out. Around day 30, I spotted a recurring theme in the rooms, prompting a quick Google search. I discovered several discussions on that specific topic, and instead of delving deeper, I continued playing, assured that something would eventually click (which it did).
Blue Prince can be frustratingly elusive when a playthrough seems fruitless. Until you hone your skills in room selection, you’ll often wrap up a day with dead ends and no progress. Over time, these frustrations become more manageable, but some runs just won’t fall in your favor. Certain unique rooms tied to specific puzzles may not appear when needed, and you won’t always have the necessary items to proceed.
During those rare successful alignments when you’re eager to advance, feel free to consult a guide or chat with a buddy for some friendly insights. It’s not uncommon for players to uncover new elements over 100 hours in. Not every puzzle resonates with every player, so a gentle push in the right direction might be all you need.
