N is a game with minimalist graphics and mechanics, but that challenges you to guide your character successfully through ever more challenging levels. The real obstacle in this program is not death but beating the clock, and you’ll find yourself quickly getting sucked in and losing track of time while you play.

PROS

No distractions: The minimalist design of this app makes everything about solving the puzzle of the individual levels. It’s so easy to lose yourself in this game because it doesn’t distract you with a bunch of bells and whistles. Even dying is not really a problem, as you have unlimited lives, so all you have to keep track of is your character at that moment. Nothing else matters.

2-player option: There is a 2-player option in this app, and you can take advantage of it even if you don’t have any special equipment. Both players can use the same keyboard with different hot keys for each, and while these come preset, you can also reconfigure them to suit your needs.

CONS

Level creation option: One extra feature of this program is the ability to create your own levels. However, this is really only an option for people with at least some knowledge of coding. Even then, it’s tough to make these levels actually playable with the tools the program gives you to work with.

Confusing log-in: There is also a log-in box in the lower left-hand corner of the screen when you open the game. Signing up does create an account for you, but there’s no indication on the screen that you’ve accomplished this or obvious reason that you should.

BOTTOM LINE

N is a fun and engaging game that includes both puzzle and action components. While the option to create your own level isn’t really accessible to users of all experience levels, the rest of the game gives you plenty of reason to download it and dive in.