Developer: Ogre Pixel
Platforms: Apple App Store, Google Play, PC (Reviewed), Switch
Genre: Adventure
Publisher: Ogre Pixel
Hidden around the World is developed and published by Ogre Pixel, who are a team known for creating relaxing and visually engaging hidden object games. Hidden around the World is a game where the narrative is kept light and simple, which allows for a relaxing playthrough. The premise of the game is straightforward, where the players travel across the beautifully illustrated cities around the globe, searching for hidden objects that are scattered throughout the lively, detailed environment. Rather than relying on a storyline, the game focuses on exploration and observation, letting each location stand out and tell its own subtle story through the environmental design. Each level feels like a miniature world that is full of life and hidden surprises.
Gameplay is simple and accessible, where each level presents you with a vibrant city scene, and your goal is to locate a set of hidden objects, snaps and fairies. The items you need to find are displayed clearly at the bottom of the screen, which helps you guide your search through the bustling environment. This game is set apart from other object hidden games due to how interactive everything feels as you are able to move objects around, peer into buildings with an almost X-ray vision, and you are able to adjust the lights and filters to help spot hidden items. The snap mechanism adds an extra layer to the already engaging game, which requires players to recreate a specific scene by arranging objects correctly. This encourages more than just searching.
Initially, the ability to move tiles and objects can feel a bit overwhelming or even slightly frustrating. It may not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer traditional hidden object gameplay. However, over time, it becomes more intuitive and even essential, particularly when trying to perfectly align scenes for snaps or uncover well-hidden items. Another clever touch is the use of fairies, which are required to move certain objects, adding a subtle progression system within each level.
The sandbox mode allows players to create their own levels and share them with others, which allows for replayability. The in-game tutorial and guide are also well-designed, making it easy to understand how to build and share your creations. What I really liked was exploring other people’s hidden worlds. Some people executed such interesting areas with well-hidden items, and others were more easily spotted. Either way, I thought this addition to the game was nice as you could play newer levels besides the story ones. Plus, you can challenge your own creativity.
The game features a rewarding progression system. By completing levels, you earn coins, which unlock new sandbox items and buildings, and gacha tickets provide additional rewards. This constant sense of progression makes the game feel generous and engaging. You are always working towards unlocking something new, whether it’s for the gameplay or creative expression.
Visually, Hidden around the World shines. The game has amazing, bright, colourful environments, with cute animations, and a charming, cartoon-like art style. Each city is packed with immense detail and makes every scene feel alive. The density of objects can sometimes make the items of the game blend into the background, but this feels like part of the challenge, and it’s well-balanced enough to remain fair. The game includes 3 different lighting settings from morning, afternoon, to night, with 12 colour filters to assist visibility. These options not only enhance the accessibility, but they also add a variety to how each level looks and feels.
The controls of the game are simple and inviting to all users with their click, drag and movement, to navigate freely and select items. While the freedom to move objects is a unique feature, it can feel a bit awkward, mainly at the start, especially when you can even move the tiles on the floor. The game is also extremely forgiving, as it allows you to play at your own pace, while giving multiple hints if you are stuck. Making it accessible to both casual players and more dedicated completionists.
The audio is perfect and complements the relaxing gameplay, with gentle, soothing music that creates a calm atmosphere. Finding the correct items triggers a satisfying, pleasant sound, while clicking the wrong item results in a soft squeeze that adds a lighthearted touch. Overall, the sound design enhances the experience without ever becoming distracting.
The difficulty adds a nice balance: while the environment is busy and colourful, something that keeps objects from blending in keeps things fair, with the addition of the tools the game provides. The game is challenging enough to stay engaging but never too hard to be frustrating to the point of discouragement. Hidden around the World successfully evolves the hidden object genre by introducing interactive elements, creative tools, and a strong community focus. Its sandbox mode, snap mechanic, and rewarding progression system give it a unique identity beyond traditional hidden object games. Combined with its charming visuals, relaxing music, and thoughtful design, the game offers a highly enjoyable and replayable experience.
Overall: 7.5/10
This is S & S. We are world game explorers. We play games. We have played over 10,000+ games! We travel, we write reviews AND we play more games!!!!
