World of Goo is one visually stunning puzzle game

World of Goo, a computer game from independent developer 2D Boy, is creating a stir. Rarely does a game come along that appeals to both casual and hard-core gamers alike, but that is just what this great puzzle game has pulled off. Even more impressively, World of Goo—available for Linux, Mac, Wii, and Windows and rated everyone—incorporates sophisticated physics, and still manages to be completely accessible.

Your job as the player is to build wild constructions using as building blocks the living viscous creatures called Goo Balls. As you progress from level to level, the game presents more challenging situations, and more versatile types of living goo. You build upside down, in gale winds, on seesaw-like pivots, and even in the air. There are moments of frustration and confusion, as World of Goo becomes more difficult very quickly. Along the way, you’ll encounter often-ominous signs with hints and tips, appropriately autographed by “The Sign Painter”. There is lots of variety, and it’s all great fun.

World of Goo raises the bar for 2-D games. Everything about it is visually stunning. The balls of goo jiggle convincingly while you build with them. The beautiful colour palette is best described as eye candy, and, with its wonderfully drawn levels, you feel like you’re playing a cartoon. Even the menus and game movies are engaging. With so much activity on the screen, it can be difficult to pick a specific Goo Ball out of a crowd.

The game sounds incredible. When interacting with the Goo Balls, they splort convincingly, pop like balloons when abused, and make generally comical noises. Every level of the game sounds right, with weather and environmental effects that never get old. The in-game music is worthy of being sold separately like a movie soundtrack.

This is a game you can introduce to your mother. With its delicious atmosphere, simple controls, and inventive gameplay, it’s very easy to recommend World of Goo.