Fortunately, this is all window dressing to the main star of the show, the puzzles. Character and facial models are fine, but certainly not cutting edge, and this comes alongside functional voice acting and an inoffensive background music. The mobile origins are clear though, and this certainly won’t be blowing anybody away (although there are reports of a Vsync issue causing temperature spikes in some PC builds). The game looks good, with the backgrounds having a nice sense of historical authenticity, mechanisms that are clear to see and objects with enough detail to make out the many hidden switches and buttons. These extra elements are welcome and it is always worth checking the Oculus if you reach what you feel is a dead end. Some areas must be affected in the past before you can progress in the present, while other puzzles require you to use the Oculus to reveal their inner workings.
The time manipulation is enabled through the mysterious Oculus Perpetua, providing some extra dimensions to the game. The storyline deviates from this sense of authenticity through a ludicrous sidestep into time travel, though this does open up a new approach to puzzles. These all contain a variety of mechanical puzzles that have a complexity that may seem out of place with the period, but the developers have done well to still capture the technology of the time so everything is achieved through clockwork, levers, and pulleys. The game takes you through an assortment of authentic locations, from Da Vinci’s workshop to a secret library hidden in an abbey.
You go on to be enlisted by Cesare Borgia to spy on Leonardo Da Vinci himself, but must prove yourself to the renowned inventor before you can become his apprentice. A mysterious note and helpful key is dropped into your cell and so the game begins. This is a very familiar opening in gaming terms and typically it isn’t long before an opportunity to escape presents itself. Waking up in a cell with bare walls and filthy hands, you’re seemingly set to see out your days in solitary confinement. You play as Giacomo, a gifted and promising individual who begins the game in less than desirable circumstances. Can developers Blue Brains repeat the success with the sequel? Or is this game going to wipe the smile from the Mona Lisa’s face? Giving the player free rein to pull, push, prod and manipulate an assortment of 3D gewgaws and widgets whilst staying true to the fifteenth century setting made for an enjoyable and challenging experience. The original House of Da Vinci was a bit of a sleeper hit, combining a novel Renaissance setting with familiar escape room gameplay.
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