To put it simply, if you like managing multiple nodes at the same time to survive (like in mini Metro), you will like this game. If you like finding secrets, exploring new paths, delving into mysteries... you will like this game.
I haven’t been this hooked in a long, long time. I was apprehensive of the lack of tutorial warning, since the last game I tried warned of the same thing and I was too confused to understand and enjoy. For this game, the confusion is purposeful. The basics are obvious, so you can hop right in. Click and drag: that’s it. You click and drag the card to the square. There’s even a manual to explain (which made me wonder about the no-tutorial thing but whatever).
What’s confusing is how to survive; how to balance the different elements so you don’t perish; and what elements unlock new things. And that’s the purpose of the game; to discover those things. Easy to learn, hard to master and all of that jazz. The mechanics fit brilliantly. You don’t grind for unlocks but you won’t go through any one play through where you haven’t discovered another cool thing to explore — and another way to die. But since you are constantly progressing, death is insignificant, not annoying. It’s a progression game done right.
Not to mention, the atmosphere, sound effects, music, writing and style blend together seamlessly. In fact, the writing is lyrical and brilliant. No easy sentences or rough translation here. I have yet to encounter any bugs.