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

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!