Friday, November 29, 2024

Keycap Series: Featuring Artists of the Month

November 29, 2024 0 Comments

Enjoying art and fun shouldn't come with a hefty price tag; it can be both high-quality and affordable.


Welcome to this monthly new series where I will be spotlighting talented keycap artists whose work I have come across and purchased from them as I love their designs. With reasonable pricing and shipping options that have proven worthwhile to me, here I am sharing them with you. Whether you're in search of intricacy, uniqueness, or affordability in artisan keycaps, I hope you find inspiration and the opportunity to support these creators.


Getting into the hobby and into the rabbit hole of artisan keycaps can be a bit overwhelming for the pocket as one artisan keycap can cost as much as a whole set, with some costing more than S$80 (not including shipping fees yet). And let's not get started on shipping... If you are in Singapore or South East Asia, sometimes shipping from overseas sellers are more than S$20-40+!😵


[Beginner's Guide to Artisan Keycaps: Everything You Need to Know]


Hopefully this list helps you as it did me (especially if you are from South East Asia) and support the lovely artists who are doing a wonderful job, and making it a little bit more easier for you and your wallet in personalizing your mechanical keyboard!


*Do note that these are based on my own experiences and thoughts, so remember to always check the reviews before committing to anything.

Think an artist (who is not on this list and fits the bill) should be added, do let me know in the comments below on where are they and why they should be added! 😆

Artists Featured:

  • 2024
    • April: 🍎 wildapplestudio
      • Material: Polymer clay, protected with UV resin
      • Style: 🧚 Whimsical / Fantasy / Sweet 🍬
    • May: 🐶 shopqwerkycaps
      • Material: Polymer clay, PBT keycap, Matte glaze or UV resin glaze
      • Style:  🍬 Fantasy / Gaming / Pop Culture / Nature Inspired / Anime 📺
    • June: 🍵 teas_factory
      • Material: Resin / Polymer Clay
      • Style:  📺 Pop Culture / Nature Inspired / Gaming / Anime
    • July: 🍑 peache_atelier
      • Material: Resin / Polymer Clay
      • Style:  📺 Anime / Animals / Food 🍞
    • August: 🧸 AnyKey 
      • Material: Resin (Hand sculpted) 
      • Style: 🧸 Adorable Dori Bear Designs
    • September: 
      • 🍁kōyōkeys
        • Material: Resin
        • Style: 🍁 Nature-Inspired
      • 🐇 pyuyucaps
        • Material: Polymer clay + PBT
        • Style:  🐇 Animals / Pokemon / Cartoon & Game Characters
    • October: 🐯 O_OOHKeycap
      • Material: Resin (Hand sculpted)
      • Style:  Animals / Fantasy 🐉⛅
    • November: 🐥 Duckycaps (on hiatus)
      • Material: Polymer clay, soft pastel + acrylic paint
      • Style:  📺 Anime / Animals / Food 🍞
    • December: ???

Wednesday, November 27, 2024

Keycap Series: Dalgona Dori by AnyKey aka any____key

November 27, 2024 0 Comments


AnyKey aka any____key makes their adorable iterations of their Bear character called Dori available through Raffle Sales (with Google Forms) which are announced on their Instagram and discord server. I first came across their adorable Dori creations on Instagram and was immediately smitten with their beary cute designs! 


[Keycap Series: August Artist Featuring AnyKey aka any____key]

[Keycap Series: All Doris I have gotten from Anykey]


The invoice for Dalgona Dori was USD$50, including shipping. I paid S$70.60 via PayPal (no thanks to currency conversation😂). 


In my last payment for Cotton Doll Dori (yes I believe I am now a beary fan of Dori 😂), Anykey has adopted a new payment method: instead of issuing an invoice directly, they now provide a link to an online store (Shopify) where customers can complete their purchase through the checkout process, still using PayPal. Maybe a store is in the works? 😍💸💸💸


Dalgona Dori has a simple caffeine sweetness vibe and I am addicted.  😝

 

It has such a matching hue to my Rainy75 that I put Dalgona Dori there. 




ASMR Video


[Exploring the Rainy75 Mechanical Keyboard: A Game-Changer in Affordable Luxury]


As expected, the keycap arrived well-protected in its compact tin box, accompanied by a certificate that adds a thoughtful touch. The elegant packaging is just as impressive as the keycap itself, making the unboxing experience all the more enjoyable.



Unboxing Video



Anykey announces the latest sales and updates to shipping, as well as posts about past creations on their Instagram and their Discord, so do check them out!


One thing to note is that shipping of the adorable Dori creations take about a month or so to be made and then shipped out.

Artist Info

  • Style: 🧸 Adorable Dori Bear Designs
  • Pricing (per keycap)US$35 (about S$50+)
  • Shipping Internationally: Depends on your country and ranges from USD$15-$23 (S$20-S$30+)
  • Wait Time: It took about 6 weeks to get an update about shipping. If you join the discord, a post will be made, but if you did not do not worry as there will be an email to inform you that it has been shipped out along with the tracking number. From there, it took another 5 business day to receive my adorable keycap from South Korea. So all in all it was almost a 2 month wait.
  • Material: Resin (Handsculpted)
  • Location: South Korea
  • Payment Method: Paypal
  • Social Media: 


Have you gotten any keycaps from any____key? If the answer is yes, let me know in the comments below what you loved and what did you get! 



Tuesday, November 26, 2024

Keycap Series: November Artist Featuring Duckycaps (on hiatus)

November 26, 2024 0 Comments

For the month of November, the artist of the month is Duckycaps, who is located in Malaysia! She has been around since 2021! Inspired by animals, nature and anime, her designs are adorably elegant. 😍 Lately her designs have also a touch of food too (think matcha, bread and yummy things). Her creations are not only limited to artisan keycaps, but charms, pins and keychains!


Shipping (to South East Asia) is US$15 (S$20~) for normal registered mail, which is somewhat reasonable. If you want faster delivery via DHL, it would be US$26 (S$35).


International shipping via DHL is as below, otherwise it would be US$18 (S$25~):

  1. North America (US & Canada): US$31 (S$42~)
  2. Australia & New Zealand: US$32 (S$44~)
  3. Europe: US$32 (S$42~)
  4. South East Asia: US$26 (S$35~)


Her keycap creations range from an average of US$28 (S$38~) to US$40+(S$55~) . The price range is reasonable along with the unique and good quality designs. 😆 


[Keycap Series: Featuring Artists of the Month

[Beginner's Guide to Artisan Keycaps: Everything You Need to Know]


I first came across Duckycaps on Instagram, and one day she was having a raffle sale on her matcha series! 😍


It was a touch decision to choose between Tobi the rabbit, Toshi the dog or Tokki the kitty, but choose I did. I saw the adorable Matcha Toshiba and just had to get him. 


Duckycaps recently opened her online store for international buyers, but this I got Toshi via Google forms. The form was easy to complete, the process was straight forward as well. Payment was either via Stripe, Wise or PayPal. Needless to say I selected PayPal as the payment option. I ended up paying S$77.33 (US$55). If you are located in Malaysia, the ordering would be done via Google Forms. You can find the details on her Instagram page.


From the time the order was put in to the time little Toshi was received, it took about 1.5 months to arrive. Duckycaps was really responsive via Instagram, it was such a pleasure chatting with her too. Do remember to check out her page and give her the support she deserves!


Packaging was sufficient: little Toshi was protected within a box and even came with a packet of matcha tea! There were also cute matcha themed stickers.

 

Unboxing Video 


The overall experience was fantastic. Isn’t little Toshi adorable and so detailed? I love the side floral details. 😀

 

One thing to note about Duckycaps  is that she is taking some time off so she is not as active, but she is still around, so do occasionally stalk out her page to see if she has anything new.

Artist Info

  • Style:  📺 Anime / Animals / Food 🍞
  • Pricing(per keycap)an average of S$38 to S$55+ (S$38 US$28  to US$40+
    • Pricing for commission pieces might vary so always reach out and clarify. 
  • Shipping to Singapore (and the rest of South East Asia): S$20~ (US$15)
  • Shipping Internationally:
    • Normal Mail: S$25~  (US$18)
    • DHL:
      • North America (US & Canada): S$42~ (US$31)
      • Australia & New Zealand: S$44~ (US$32)
      • Europe: S$42~ (US$32)
      • South East Asia: S$35~(US$26)
  • Wait Time: My order took about 1.5 months to reach me. Since it was made to order, the time frame is pretty reasonable.  Duckycaps is also very responsive so do message her if you have any concerns.
  • Material: Polymer clay, soft pastel + acrylic paint
  • Social Media:  

💗 Loves

💗 Unique designs and aesthetics.
💗 Light weight and easy to install caps. 
💗 The evenness and smoothness of the end product. 
💗 The attention to detail is impeccable, love the floral paint designs on the sides of little Toshi!
💗 Good quality and amicable, responsive artist (to address and concerns or questions). 
💗 Reasonable pricing and aesthetically pleasing designs.



Remember to compare prices and shipping costs across different artisans and platforms to find the best fit for your budget!


Have you gotten any keycaps from Duckycaps? If the answer is yes, let me know in the comments below what you loved and what did you get! 


[Keycap Series: Featuring Artists of the Month]

[Beginner's Guide to Artisan Keycaps: Everything You Need to Know]




Thursday, November 21, 2024

Sharing: How to glaze polymer clay ✿ Tips for beginners

November 21, 2024 0 Comments

If you are feeling creative and want to create really cute polymer clay artisan keycaps and learn the secreta of how to glaze polymer clay, do check out this really informative and easy to understand tutorial by wildapplestudio. She really does not gatekeep and shares the essentials for beginners to start their polymer clay adventure! 


 

I've been a fan of Apple and her creations, even getting a couple of her adorable artisan keycaps and featured her in my Artist of the Month series for artisan keycap artists. Seeing the behind the scenes of how her creations come to "life" was really insightful and while I might not be attempting to create any time soon, this video was really enjoyable so I decided to share it with you too!


Do drop by her Youtube page and give a like or follow to support this wonderful artist! 

 

 

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

Sweeten Your Keyboard Setup with Sea Salt Meow MAO Profile Keycaps

November 19, 2024 0 Comments

If you’re looking for keycaps that bring a unique blend of charm and comfort to your typing experience, the Sea Salt Meow MAO Profile Keycaps might be just what you need. Inspired by the rich, indulgent colors of sweet desserts and sea salt caramel, these keycaps are perfect for anyone with a taste for the whimsical. 

 

Best of all, they’re currently on sale at 30% off, making it the ideal time to grab a set for yourself!

They are usually S$50 (about US$38 ), but now with the sale they are S$35 (about US$27) at the Ktechs website.


[Ktechs: Mechanical Keyboards and Tech Accessories]


Purchase Sea Salt Meow MAO Profile Keycaps Here

 

 



Unboxing Video


 

 

1. Dessert-Inspired Design with Sweet Caramel Tones

The Sea Salt Meow keycaps feature a delicious palette of creamy beige, caramel browns, and soft whites, reminiscent of decadent desserts drizzled with sea salt caramel. The warm color scheme adds a touch of sweetness and coziness to your setup, while the subtle, playful paw prints and fishbone designs add a hint of feline fun to complete the look. This combination of rich tones and subtle accents creates a delightful, inviting vibe that’s sure to stand out.

 

2. MAO Profile for a Comfortable Typing Experience

The keycaps are designed with the MAO profile, which offers a rounded, ergonomic shape that enhances typing comfort. The profile’s gentle curve provides a natural wrist posture and smooth keystrokes, perfect for long hours of work or gaming. Whether you’re working or playing, the MAO profile ensures a comfortable experience that lets you enjoy each keystroke.

 

3. Durable PBT Material for Long-Lasting Quality

Made from high-quality PBT (polybutylene terephthalate), the Sea Salt Meow keycaps are built to withstand daily use without fading or developing a shiny appearance. PBT is known for its durability and slightly textured feel, which resists wear over time. The legends on each keycap are double-shot molded, so they’ll stay crisp and clear even with heavy use, keeping your keyboard looking as good as new.

 

4. Broad Compatibility and a Full Set for Customization

This set comes with 138 keycaps, allowing you to create a custom layout for almost any keyboard with MX-style switches. Compatible with brands like Corsair, Ducky, and Razer, this versatile set provides everything you need, whether you have a compact 60% keyboard or a full-size layout. The wide range of keys makes it easy to give your entire keyboard a cohesive dessert-inspired look.

 

[Review: SK82 Mechanical Keyboard - A Blend of Functionality and Style on a Budget]

 

 

5. On Sale Now – Add a Sweet Touch to Your Setup!

Originally priced higher, the Sea Salt Meow keycaps are now available at a a 30% discount price of S$35 (about US$27). So iit’s the perfect chance to indulge in a set that combines charm and durability at an irresistible price. Treat yourself to this one-of-a-kind keycap set and enjoy a keyboard upgrade that’s both stylish and built to last!

 

Don’t miss out on this sweet deal!

👉 Purchase the Sea Salt Meow MAO Profile Keycaps Here

 

With these dessert-themed keycaps, each typing session will feel like a tasty treat!

 

 

Saturday, November 16, 2024

KTechs: Mechanical Keyboards and Tech Accessories

November 16, 2024 0 Comments

 


 Known for its curated selection and knowledgeable staff, KTechs is a specialty store that provides both an in-store and online shopping experience tailored to keyboard enthusiasts and tech lovers. From customizable keyboard kits to key switches and accessories, KTechs offers everything you need to build the perfect keyboard setup.



About KTechs

KTechs was established in Singapore to serve the growing demand for mechanical keyboards, custom keyboard kits, and tech accessories. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced builder, KTechs offers a variety of options to suit every budget and preference. With both a physical location and a comprehensive online store, KTechs makes shopping for mechanical keyboards in Singapore easy and convenient.

 

If you are in Singapore, you can experience the walk-in experience as well as the online experience should you not have the time to head down to the physical store.  For those of you who are not in Singapore, KTechs also does international deliveries so you can shop online with ease as well. 



Where to Find KTechs – Location and Online Store

For those who enjoy hands-on shopping, KTechs’ retail store is located at:

37 Lor 23 Geylang
Yu Li Industrial Building, #07-05
Singapore 388371 

 

Here, you can test out various keyboards, try different types of switches, and get expert advice from the staff. This physical location is ideal for those who want to experience the products before buying, especially helpful for new keyboard builders.


KTechs also offers a full-featured online store at ktechs.store, where customers can browse their extensive collection from anywhere. The website is user-friendly, featuring clear categories and detailed descriptions, making it easy to shop for mechanical keyboards, keycaps, and accessories. The online store also offers shipping across Singapore and internationally, giving customers access to KTechs’ quality products even if they’re not local.



KTechs Product Offerings and Pricing

KTechs stocks a wide range of mechanical keyboards and accessories to fit different budgets:

  • Mechanical Keyboards:  
    • Pre-built keyboards range from S$100 to S$300, while customizable kits start at S$150 and can go up to S$500. These options cater to everyone, from beginners to experienced hobbyists.
  • Key Switches
    • Available in packs, switch prices vary from S$15 to S$50, covering popular brands like Gateron, Cherry MX, and more.
  • Keycaps
    • Premium keycap sets range from S$50 to S$150, with a wide variety of materials and styles.
  • Accessories
    • Desk mats, cables, and lubricants range from S$20 to S$80, providing affordable ways to personalize your workspace.


By offering competitive pricing and frequent online promotions, KTechs makes it easy for keyboard enthusiasts to find high-quality products at reasonable prices.



The KTechs In-Store Experience

Shopping in-store at KTechs offers a unique experience for anyone passionate about mechanical keyboards. 

 

Located in Singapore, the store allows customers to physically test keyboards, compare switch types, and browse keycaps and other accessories up close. The KTechs staff are highly knowledgeable, ready to answer questions, and offer advice on building and customizing keyboards. This hands-on approach is ideal for anyone looking to get a true feel for different products before buying.



The KTechs Online Shopping Experience

If you prefer shopping from home, the KTechs online store is an excellent resource. Their website, ktechs.store, is designed with ease of navigation in mind, featuring high-quality images and comprehensive product descriptions. This setup makes it simple to shop for everything from custom keyboard kits to switches and accessories. The online store also offers exclusive deals and promotions, making it a convenient and cost-effective way to shop for mechanical keyboards and accessories.


 

Why Choose KTechs?

KTechs sets itself apart with its focus on quality, customer service, and community engagement. Whether in-store or online, the company provides a welcoming environment where customers can explore, learn, and find products that suit their needs.


Whether you’re in Singapore or (overseas) shopping online, KTechs is an ideal destination for anyone looking to purchase mechanical keyboards, custom keyboard kits, key switches, and tech accessories. With a physical location for hands-on exploration and an online store for convenient shopping, KTechs offers a full range of products and expert support for keyboard enthusiasts of all levels.




Thursday, November 14, 2024

Cute Shark Theme PBT Keycaps in Blue: A Unique, Fun Upgrade for Your Keyboard

November 14, 2024 0 Comments


Looking for a way to bring some personality to your keyboard?

The Cute Shark Theme PBT Keycaps in Blue offer a unique look with playful shark designs and high-quality materials. Priced at just around US$10-15 (depending on the various discounts available), these keycaps are an affordable way to add an ocean-inspired theme to your setup.

 

Let’s dive into the details of why these keycaps are worth considering and where to buy them.


Design: Cute Shark-Themed Keycaps

These keycaps feature a soothing blue and white color scheme, decorated with cartoon shark illustrations, waves, and bubbles to create a subtle underwater theme. The design is playful yet not too bold, making it easy to blend with different desk setups. It’s a great choice for fans of ocean-inspired designs or anyone looking for a bit of fun in their keyboard layout, but yet want something subtle and not too overly cute.



Quality and Build: Durable PBT Material

These shark-themed keycaps are crafted from high-quality PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) plastic, known for its durability and resistance to shine. Unlike ABS keycaps, which can become shiny over time, PBT keycaps maintain their matte texture and color, even with heavy use. The dye-sublimation printing ensures the colors remain vibrant. Designed with a Cherry MX profile, they fit most mechanical keyboards and provide a comfortable typing angle.



Typing Experience: Smooth and Enjoyable

Typing on these keycaps is comfortable and enjoyable. The PBT material has a slight texture, giving each keystroke a smooth and substantial feel. They produce a soft “thock” sound, which makes typing and gaming sessions pleasant. The Cherry MX profile also offers an ergonomic design, which is helpful for long periods of use.

 

I paired mine with Pantheon's TSIC ("This Switch is Called) Linear Switches and placed them on my GM87 barebones kit. 


It ended up being producing a deeper creamy thock as you can hear from the video below. 

 



Where to Buy the Cute Shark Theme Keycaps

These Cute Shark Theme PBT Keycaps in Blue are available on AliExpress, a reliable platform for unique keycaps and accessories. Priced at US$10-15, they’re budget-friendly and often come with sales, so it’s worth checking for any active discounts.


Get from AliExpress

 




Why Choose These Shark Keycaps?

  • Ocean-Inspired Aesthetic: Fun and refreshing look to personalize your keyboard.
  • High-Quality PBT: Durable material that resists shine and wear.
  • Comfortable Typing Experience: Ergonomic Cherry MX profile suitable for long sessions.
  • Affordable and Accessible: Available on AliExpress with international shipping options.



Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the Cute Shark Keycaps?

If you’re looking for a unique, ocean-inspired touch for your keyboard, these Cute Shark Theme PBT Keycaps are a great option. They offer durability, comfort, and style at an affordable price, making them ideal for anyone wanting to switch up their setup.

Ready to add some playful ocean vibes to your keyboard? Check out these Cute Shark Theme Keycaps on AliExpress and bring the sea to your desk.

 

 

 

 


Related Posts:


Tuesday, November 12, 2024

Brighten Up Your Setup: An In-Depth Review of Blue Meow Meow (Cat) Themed Keycaps

November 12, 2024 0 Comments

Are you a cat lover searching for unique keycaps to give your keyboard a fun, personalized look? Look no further! These Blue Meow Meow (Cat) Themed Keycaps from AliExpress add the perfect touch of charm and functionality. 

 

In this blog post, I’ll cover everything from their design and build to typing experience and where to buy, so you can decide if these keycaps are right for you. If you have not known it yet, I have used these keycaps on my Cidoo ABM066 Alice mechanical keyboard, and I totally love the feeling on typing with them! I even paired them with 2 very adorable cat artisan keycaps.




First Impressions: Adorable Blue Cat Themed Keycaps

If you’re looking to bring some life to your keyboard, these Blue Cat Themed Keycaps do it in style. Each keycap features charming cat-inspired details: cute paw prints, cat faces, and a soft blue and white color palette. These cat keycaps make your keyboard visually pop without overwhelming the setup, blending cuteness with elegance.



Quality and Build: Durable PBT Keycaps with Unique Design

Crafted from high-quality PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) plastic, these Blue Cat Themed Keycaps are designed to last. PBT is known for its durability and resistance to shine, which makes it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. Each keycap is dye-sublimated, so the blue color and cat designs won’t fade or wear down over time, even with heavy use. They’re compatible with Cherry MX switches and similar key switches, ensuring a comfortable typing experience and an easy fit on most mechanical keyboards.



Typing Experience: Smooth, Satisfying, and Comfortable

Typing with the Blue Cat Themed Keycaps feels smooth and satisfying. PBT plastic’s slightly textured surface gives each keystroke a pleasant grip, making typing and gaming sessions feel effortless. With these keycaps, you’ll get that soft “thock” sound that fans of high-quality keycaps appreciate, adding a unique sound profile to your typing.



Where to Buy Blue Cat Themed Keycaps

You can find these Blue Cat Themed Keycaps on AliExpress, a popular site for gaming accessories and custom keycaps. AliExpress offers international shipping, so you can get these adorable cat keycaps delivered to your door, no matter where you live. Keep an eye on site-wide sales for extra discounts or bundle offers!


Get from AliExpress

 




Why Buy These Blue Cat Themed Keycaps?

  • Unique Design: The cute cat-inspired elements make your keyboard stand out.
  • High-Quality PBT Material: Durable, anti-shine plastic keeps the keycaps looking fresh.
  • Ergonomic MDA Profile: Comfortable for both gaming and typing.
  • Affordable: Great value, especially when on sale. Typically ranges from US$15-40, depending if you get them during sales or non-sales.



Final Thoughts: Should You Buy These Cat Keycaps?

If you’re a cat enthusiast or just want to add a touch of whimsy to your gaming setup, the Blue Cat Themed Keycaps are an excellent choice. Their adorable design, combined with high-quality PBT construction, makes them a long-lasting, affordable option that’s both functional and stylish.

Don’t miss out on these playful, well-designed keycaps that can bring a smile to your face every time you type. Enhance your keyboard setup and let your love for cats shine through with these fun, stylish Blue Cat Themed Keycaps!

 

 

 

 [First Look: CIDOO ABM066 Barebones Kit Alice-layout Review]



Thursday, November 7, 2024

ASMR Sound Check: Cidoo ABM066 Keyboard with Akko Cream Pro V3 Tactile Switches

November 07, 2024 0 Comments

 

If you’re in search of a truly satisfying mechanical keyboard sound test, you’re in the right place. The Cidoo ABM066, equipped with Akko Cream Pro V3 tactile switches, is a dream setup for anyone who appreciates both smooth typing and soothing ASMR. Each keystroke on this board offers gentle resistance, delivering a refined "thock" that’s music to the ears of keyboard enthusiasts and ASMR fans alike.

 

In this quick ASMR sound check, I’ll guide you through the unique sounds of this setup. You'll get to experience the tactile feedback and subtle, relaxing tones that make the Cidoo ABM066 so enjoyable to type on. The Akko Cream Pro V3 switches add just the right amount of bounce and resistance, making each press satisfying without being overwhelming.

 

Whether you're exploring different switches for your own setup or simply looking for a moment of relaxation, plug in your headphones, sit back, and enjoy the rhythmic typing sounds of the Cidoo ABM066. It’s the perfect way to unwind or maybe... discover a new favorite switch.

 

 If you want a deeper dive into this board, be sure to check out my full review of the CIDOO ABM066 Barebones Kit with its Alice-layout linked below. Enjoy the ASMR and happy typing!

 

[First Look: CIDOO ABM066 Barebones Kit Alice-layout Review

 

 

Tuesday, November 5, 2024

Nintendo Switch Review: A Monster’s Expedition (Through Puzzling Exhibitions)

November 05, 2024 0 Comments


If you’re anything like me, you know that not all puzzle games feel truly relaxing. Some are more like a mental marathon, leaving you exhausted instead of refreshed. But A Monster’s Expedition (Through Puzzling Exhibitions) on the Nintendo Switch was exactly what I needed. It is a game that combines clever puzzles with a sense of calm, light humor, and pure charm. 


Draknek & Friends have crafted a delightful adventure that invites you to slow down, get curious, and solve puzzles at your own pace; all while enjoying a lighthearted take on the quirks of human artifacts.

In this review, I’ll break down why A Monster’s Expedition is worth adding to your Switch library, especially if you love games that soothe the mind as much as they engage it.


Story & Setting: A Puzzle Game with Personality

At first glance, A Monster’s Expedition feels like a cozy escape into nature. You play as an endearing little monster exploring an open-world museum of human artifacts scattered across charming islands. Each island holds its own exhibition, with descriptions that offer a whimsical look at everyday objects from a monster’s perspective.
Personally, I loved this twist on storytelling. The museum artifacts make the puzzles feel purposeful and give you a reason to keep moving forward. Each new artifact had me smiling, guessing at what bizarre or funny take the game would give on it. This quirky narrative style was refreshing and kept me invested in the game beyond just solving puzzles.


Gameplay: Simple Mechanics, Endless Challenge

The core gameplay mechanics of A Monster's Expedition are elegantly simple. Your task is to connect islands by rolling logs into the water, creating pathways to continue your expedition. Early puzzles ease you in, teaching you the basics of rolling, pushing, and placing logs. But as you explore, the puzzles become increasingly intricate, demanding creativity, logic, and sometimes, a bit of trial and error.
What makes A Monster's Expedition unique among puzzle games on the Switch is its open-world layout. You’re not bound to a single path—you can choose various routes, revisiting islands or trying new areas as you please. This freedom makes the experience feel open-ended and more personal, giving players control over their own adventure.


Visuals and Atmosphere: Cozy and Calming

The visuals are a huge part of what makes this game so special. A Monster's Expedition has a soothing art style featuring soft, pastel-colored landscapes and minimalist island designs that look fantastic on the Switch in both handheld and docked modes. Paired with a gentle soundtrack that melts into the background, the visuals create a calming atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding.  I could relax and try new strategies, knowing I could always change course without losing progress. As someone who often feels pressured by timers in other games, this felt like a breath of fresh air.


Accessibility: A Game that Respects Your Pace

One of the best aspects of A Monster’s Expedition is its accessibility. There are no time limits, no penalties, and you can undo moves as much as you like. The game autosaves after each action, so you’re free to try new strategies and solve puzzles without the stress of losing progress. It’s ideal for casual players who may want a low-pressure game to relax with, as well as puzzle fans who enjoy tackling tricky challenges at their own speed.
For me, the gameplay was deeply satisfying. I loved that the game allowed me to experiment and figure things out without holding my hand. I could take my time and play in small bursts, which was perfect for unwinding at the end of the day. Plus, the open-world design meant I could move on when a puzzle felt too tricky and return later. It’s a game that respects your time and curiosity.


Why A Monster's Expedition is a Must-Have for Puzzle Lovers

After spending hours with A Monster’s Expedition, I can confidently say it’s a game worth having. Whether you’re a serious puzzle fan or just want a relaxing experience, this game ticks all the right boxes. The puzzles are clever, the humor is charming, and the atmosphere is perfect for unwinding. It’s a game that feels like it’s always giving back to the player, and it makes every minute spent worthwhile.


Pros:

  • Clever puzzles with lots of variety
  • Open-world exploration that’s unusual for puzzle games
  • Charming humor and unique storytelling
  • Relaxing visuals and peaceful soundtrack

Cons:

  • Some puzzles may feel similar if played in long sessions

Final Rating: 9/10



A Monster's Expedition on Nintendo Switch is an absolute gem—perfect for anyone craving a relaxed, immersive, and brain-stimulating experience. This delightful game is as satisfying to play as it is to look at, making it a fantastic addition to any Switch library. Dive in, get curious, and let the adorable monster take you on an expedition you won’t soon forget!