Free artistic puzzle game
Painting Lacy is a free artistic puzzle game that stems from the same itch.io arena as many other titles, including S.o.L.o, Passing By and Haikyuu Otome. It has a slow narrative element that’s drawn out in painted visuals, while there’s an excellent musical score to complement it. It reveals the nature of the modern world where people struggle to find a balance between work and home.
The game is available for Mac devices, but it only lasts ten minutes long. In that time, you’ll need to uncover secrets and solve puzzles to make your way to the end. It’s an emotional roller coaster ride into the mind of the developer.
The creator of Painting Lacy clearly states that the game will turn dark. There are some choices you need to make, and some interactions with Lacy are required. What unfolds is a sad tale that will creep into your heart and have you thinking for a few days one end about it.
Sad storyline
Painted visuals
You’ll find plenty of artwork in the game, as it asks you to paint your way through the story. There are different styles and brushes you can use, but they all serve to progress you through the plot. For an extra auditory experience, you’ll have stunning music to accompany you.
Secrets and puzzles
While there’s only one ending, you can solve puzzles and uncover different mysteries with each playthrough. It encourages replayability as you try to find all the secrets in Painting Lacy. Each puzzle has a function in the story and isn’t merely a place-filler until the next chapter.
Short gameplay
The developer indicates that the entire game will take you ten minutes to complete. The top right of the screen plays host to a count-down clock that runs while you attempt to solve puzzles. It challenges you to finish it a set period, which is a bonus for game runners who try to complete titles in the quickest time.
Life is a painting
Painting Lacy delivers a story that reflects the poor working habits of humankind. You’ll need to find that balance of home and work while speaking to Lacy every chance you get. If you play the game again, you can uncover more secrets.