Best games for people who love puzzles
If you love crosswords and jigsaws, start with Monument Valley, Tetris Effect and The Case of the Golden Idol. They suit beginners and reward patience over fast hands.
Puzzle games are the easiest bridge from a hobby you already enjoy. None of these ask for quick reactions.
| Game | Level | Plays on | Tried & tested |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monument Valley | 1 · Gentle | Computer, Phone / tablet | 99.1 · Hall of Fame |
| Tetris Effect | 2 · Easy | PS5, Computer | 92 · Proven favourite |
| The Case of the Golden Idol | 2 · Easy | Switch / Switch 2, Computer, Phone / tablet | 92 · Proven favourite |
| Dorfromantik | 1 · Gentle | Switch / Switch 2, PS5, Xbox, Computer | 89.3 · Proven favourite |
| Mini Metro | 2 · Easy | Switch / Switch 2, PS5, Computer, Phone / tablet | 86.4 · Well liked |
| Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy | 2 · Easy | Switch / Switch 2, PS5, Xbox, Computer, Phone / tablet | 85 · Well liked |
| Unpacking | 1 · Gentle | Switch / Switch 2, PS5, Xbox, Computer, Phone / tablet | 84.8 · Well liked |
| Mini Motorways | 2 · Easy | Switch / Switch 2, Computer, Phone / tablet | 82.4 · Well liked |
| Lego Builder's Journey | 1 · Gentle | Switch / Switch 2, PS5, Xbox, Computer | 79.4 |
| Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker | 2 · Easy | Switch / Switch 2 | 78.3 |
| Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics | 1 · Gentle | Switch / Switch 2 | 77.6 |
| Peggle 2 | 1 · Gentle | PS5, Xbox | 76 |
About each game
Monument Valley. Beautiful optical-illusion puzzles; about two hours.
Tetris Effect. Classic Tetris with music and visuals; has relaxed 'chill' modes.
The Case of the Golden Idol. Work out whodunnit from frozen crime scenes. Point and click; hints available.
Dorfromantik. Place hexagon tiles to build peaceful villages. Calm, no time limits.
Mini Metro. Draw tube lines as a city grows. Endless mode removes pressure.
Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy. Defence-lawyer mysteries. Lots of reading; no reflexes needed.
Unpacking. Unpack boxes into rooms; tells a life story with no words.
Mini Motorways. Draw roads to keep traffic flowing.
Lego Builder's Journey. Short, calm Lego building puzzles.
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker. Can't jump; rotate tiny puzzle worlds. Perfect practice for 3D cameras.
Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics. 51 familiar card and board games with simple rules screens.
Peggle 2. Aim and fire one ball. Very forgiving and cheerful.
Not sure which one? Answer seven questions and we will match games to you.