Free indie alphabet puzzle game
factori is a puzzle video game wherein you must look at letters in a different way. Developed by Star Garden Games, this indie game is an adorable 2D puzzle experience that offers a minimalist art style that’s easy on the eyes and unique gameplay mechanics that will keep you on your toes.
factori is similar to games like gem setter, wherein you aren’t given any hints on how to complete a level. However, you’re free to try for as long as you want. Take note that this is the demo version and only features some of the game modes.
Industrializing letters
In factori, you must use factories to produce and combine new letters to complete the required entries. You begin by placing an “i” factory and connecting it to other factories, as it produces a simple vertical line that’s the base for all other alphabet letters. To change it, there’s the Bender, which can turn it into a “C,” the Rotator which can rotate it 90°, and the Reflector which mirrors it.
There’s also the Merger factories, which can combine the parts produced—and there are three versions, depending on the number of connections you want to combine. Aside from the confusing logic, you’ll need to form as you figure out how to create new letters, the main challenge of this game as you progress is trying to manage the space left on the grid as the factories are unlimited.
However, for a demo, the tutorial does a great job of explaining how to solve the puzzles. It could use some adjustments, though, as there are only 9 playable levels and 6 of them happen to be the tutorial. A hint system would be nice, too. If you’d like more challenges, the game has a Type-a-Word mode that allows players to create their own levels.
It’s all about the right perspective
Overall, factori is a nice little indie game for puzzle enthusiasts, especially if you like cheeky little visual challenges. While the demo could use some adjustments on its offerings, it still highlights what you can expect from the game when you get the full version. This is also a highly recommended title for anyone interested in games that let players submit their own creations.
