Daimon's Lair

First Impressions

I've heard so many good things about Portal, so I was expecting a lot coming in--even though it took me so long to actually play it. From the beginning, the quirky storyline (such as it is) had me hooked. The puzzles weren't too shabby, either :P.

Pacing

There isn't much story here, but what story there is never gets in the way--and compliments well--the main drive of the game: the puzzles. The puzzles themselves are well-constructed and aren't overly long or involved. The exception to that is the last level, which I felt dragged on a bit too long.

Game Mechanics

The mechanics here are super simple: jump, grab items, crouch, open portals. The portals themselves are the hardest thing to get used to--especially the mind-bending times where you have to build momentum by purposely falling through a portal and get shot out a totally different direction. Those of you who have played the game know exactly what I'm talking about. Those of you who haven't have to play the game. It really is one of those things: you just have to do it. As mind-bending as it is, trust me: it's super easy to get the hang of it.

Balance

I haven't tried any of the "advanced" puzzles yet, so the progression there is anyone's guess. The progression within the game proper, however, is incredibly well-done. The way the portals are introduced to the way the complexity of the puzzles gradually builds is ingenious. The speed at which the game goes from easy to mind-bending is uncanny, but the learning curve isn't steep at all. There are a few puzzles which were outliers as far as difficulty went, but for the most part this game is incredibly well-balanced.

Would You Do It All Again?

Yes. Especially since the game is an incredibly good deal as part of The Orange Box for the 360. It's a game that's totally worth picking up. Do it. Now.

And remember: