With its striking low-poly look and playing "like a virtual coloring book", Lantern is there for you when you just need to clear your head, when you want to kick back and not think of anything in particular. It also works quite marvelously as companion piece to a podcast or audiobook. It is incredibly undemanding. "But... but is it a game"" Well. Who cares"

Playing as the wind itself, you guide a lantern through a scenery devoid of color, bringing light and life back into the world. Everything in your vicinity turns back to normal, which looks just lovely. It's part Flower, part Katamari Damacy. There is no conflict, no fail state, and no challenge whatsoever. You can play at your own pace, choosing only to fulfill each level's requirements or play until the whole world is awash with color. Just make sure to bring enough time, as there is no saving mid-mission and each of the four levels takes at least half an hour to complete.
As a game, a "serious of interesting choices", Lantern falls flat. As a relaxing, strangely satisfying experience, on the other hand, it works just fine. The game is also compatible with the Oculus Rift and HITC Vive, and while I couldn't play it on a VR setup, I can definitely see this adding to the overall experience.

You can purchase Lantern from Steam for $6.99. For more information, you can visit the game's website or follow developers Storm In A Tea Cup on Facebook or Twitter.

...