Gambit Shifter

Gambit Shifter is not a game with lofty ambitions despite its regal cast of chess pieces. It’s a pleasant, low-stress, low-stakes puzzler that wants you to succeed and get you to think outside the board to figure out its riddles. Although its blue-steel aesthetic seems forgettably low-key, it actually allows you to put your thinky cap on and focus on the puzzle, without a lot of additional doodads to confuse its goal. No matter what, a glint of gold is your reward, and that makes it easier to push forward into the harder puzzles. The result is a sleek game that’s perfect for someone who wants something more spatial than the Piczle franchise and less punishing than Braid. At a budget price and a full slate of carefully designed puzzles, it’s a fine side game for someone who wants to shift — har — their brain into a different gear after a long day. Currently available on PC and via the Steam storefront, it’s a pleasant slice of quiet time, with no Bobby Fischer wannabes yelling in your ear about zwischenzugs or wing pawn decoy tactics. Try Gambit Shifter out. Then, maybe, try a casual game of chess at the park or the library

Gambit Shifter is a nearly-perfect experience: the puzzles are great, the UX is smooth and there aren't relevant faults in this Italian indie instant classic.