In the past, I drew those maps with pencil and paper and that was part of the fun, but I feel nothing gets lost with a game supported map that doesn't show areas one hasn't explored yet. The automatically expanding/developing map with both player position and orientation indication was also much appreciated. BTW, I loved the notebook which allowed me to attach my own written notes to snapshots of scenes/objects. This is where Riven excelled and Quern didn't feel as strong as in its other aspects. In Quern's story, it somewhat makes sense for the player to encounter such artificial puzzles, but I would have much preferred if all puzzles had been organically integrated into the environment and story. I'm exaggerating a bit but imagine a road which you cannot follow anymore unless you solve a Rubik's cube.

Some of the puzzles feel like artificial hurdles. The world building in terms of the story could have been significantly richer, but having said that the ending and informing the player of their choices works so much better than that of Obduction. Essentially the vast majority of it unfolds very quickly and there is only a small further point of interest added further down the road. The only two points of criticism I have are: 1. I fully enjoyed playing Quern and would love to see a successor from the same team. Graphics, ambient sounds and musical score are all wonderful.

Quern - Undying Thoughs on the other hand is full of charm and draws the player into the world in a similar way to Myst and Riven. However, with all due respect to Obduction, the latter feels unfinished and leaves one feeling somewhat empty. Nominally, Obduction should carry that title as the original Myst creators were involved with Obduction. Nominally, Obduction should carry that title as the original Myst creators were involved A gem of game! The true spiritual successor to Myst. A gem of game! The true spiritual successor to Myst.

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