Monument Valley
A short, calm puzzle game about guiding a silent princess through architecture that bends the rules of geometry
by ustwo Games Ltd · listed Nov 14, 2026
Quick verdict
Well worth the small price if you value atmosphere and clever design over difficulty. Just know it is brief, and the extra chapters cost more.
Best for People who want a relaxing, beautifully designed puzzle game they can finish in an evening
Reviewed by AppsPicks on Nov 13, 2026. How we review
Monument Valley review
Monument Valley is a puzzle adventure where you twist, slide and rotate pieces of strange buildings so that impossible paths connect. You guide Ida, a quiet princess, through a series of temple-like structures built on optical illusions, while avoiding the Crow People who block your way. It suits anyone who likes gentle puzzles, striking visual design, or a game they can finish in an evening.
Play is simple: tap where you want Ida to walk, then drag handles and turn levers to reshape the level until a route appears. The puzzles lean more toward wonder than difficulty, so you rarely get stuck for long. The soundtrack responds to your moves and works best with headphones. Progress can sync between devices, and the game is tuned for both phones and tablets.
Why we picked it: It remains one of the best-known examples of mobile games as design objects, with a one-time price and the bonus Ida's Dream chapter included.
Watch out for: The main game is short, and the Forgotten Shores expansion costs extra on top of the purchase price.
What we like
- One-time purchase with no ads
- Clever puzzles built on optical illusions
- Distinctive art style and reactive soundtrack
- Easy for newcomers and non-gamers to finish
- Cloud save across devices
What could be better
- Main story can be completed in a couple of hours
- Forgotten Shores chapters are a separate purchase
- Little challenge for experienced puzzle fans
Questions about Monument Valley
How much does Monument Valley cost?
It is a paid game at 3.99 USD on both the App Store and Google Play. The Forgotten Shores expansion is sold separately as an in-app purchase.
Is it available on iPhone and Android?
Yes, it is on the App Store for iPhone and iPad and on Google Play for Android phones and tablets.
Can I play it offline?
Yes, the levels are part of the download, so you can play without a connection once installed. Cloud save syncing needs internet.
How long does it take to finish?
The main game is short, typically a few hours at most. Forgotten Shores adds eight more chapters if you want more.
Are there sequels?
Yes, ustwo games has released Monument Valley 2 and Monument Valley 3, which follow the same style with new characters and puzzles.
From the developer: how Monument Valley describes itself
** Apple Game of the Year 2014 ** ** Winner of Apple Design Award 2014 **
In Monument Valley you will manipulate impossible architecture and guide a silent princess through a stunningly beautiful world.
Monument Valley is a surreal exploration through fantastical architecture and impossible geometry. Guide the silent princess Ida through mysterious monuments, uncovering hidden paths, unfolding optical illusions and outsmarting the enigmatic Crow People.
Ida's Dream now available.
Forgotten Shores: Eight new chapters of adventure and illusion available now as a separate purchase.
Buy or download Monument Valley now and you’ll also get our fully animated iMessage sticker pack, including 5 stickers exclusive to players! Only available on iOS10 and above.
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"This might be the most beautiful iPad game of 2014" - Wired
"Brilliant design... stayed with me like a dream I didn't want to forget" 9/10 - Polygon
"The most sublime hour my iPad has ever given me... and the value of such a thing is incalculable" - Kotaku
"Monument Valley stuns with its serenity... each screen is a work of art" - Huffington Post
"Almost impossibly gorgeous... a feast for your senses" 5/5 - Touch Arcade
Text from the app store listing, quoted for reference. Our own take is above.
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