This is a physics-based puzzle-platformer where players control a customizable human character, often referred to as Bob, navigating surreal dreamscapes. The core objective is to solve environmental puzzles and overcome obstacles to progress through each level. The game emphasizes player agency and experimentation, allowing for multiple solutions to challenges through its unique, wobbly movement mechanics.

The Premise and Setting

The game invites players into the subconscious of Bob, a seemingly ordinary builder plagued by recurring dreams of falling. These dream worlds are constructed from his daily experiences, hopes, fears, and memories, creating a fragmented yet interconnected environment. The atmosphere is one of playful absurdity and gentle exploration, where the laws of physics are often bent and twisted to create unique puzzle scenarios.

Core Gameplay Mechanics

The defining feature of this title is its highly interactive physics engine. Players directly control the limbs of their character, allowing for a deliberate and often comical approach to movement. This means grabbing, pushing, pulling, and swinging are all essential actions. The open-ended nature of the puzzles encourages creative problem-solving; there isn't always one single "correct" way to proceed. Players must utilize the environment, their character's limited abilities, and the game's physics to find a path forward.

What Makes This Game Unique?

The game's distinctiveness lies in its unpredictable physics-driven gameplay and its focus on emergent solutions. Unlike many platformers with precise controls, this experience embraces a more fluid and often clumsy character movement. This leads to humorous situations and requires players to think outside the box, often combining objects and environmental elements in unexpected ways to overcome obstacles. The ability to customize the character's appearance adds a personal touch to the player's journey through these dreamlike worlds.

Game Information

Released in 2016, this main game is available on a wide range of platforms, including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux, Mac, iOS, and Android. It falls into the genres of Platform, Puzzle, Simulator, and Adventure, with its indie development roots evident in its creative approach.

How do you move your character?

Movement is achieved by directly controlling each of your character's limbs. You can grab onto ledges, push objects, swing from ropes, and generally interact with the environment in a tactile way. This hands-on approach to character control is central to solving the game's puzzles.

What is the goal of the game?

The primary goal is to navigate through a series of dream levels, solving environmental puzzles and overcoming physical challenges to escape the dreamscape. Each level presents a new set of obstacles and opportunities for creative problem-solving.