In Rays of the Light

After exploring In Rays of the Light in its many facets, we can confidently say that it offers a truly unique gaming experience – one that guides the video game medium into rare, contemplative territory. It is not a conventional title and must be approached with the right mindset: that of someone seeking an emotional and introspective journey, rather than action or challenge. What resonates most is the evocative power of silence and light, elements that serve as the true protagonists of the narrative. Traversing these abandoned spaces, laden with remnants of a lost civilization, evokes a profound sense of solitude – one rarely achieved in games. The near-total absence of characters or direct dialogue allows for personal interpretation, turning every environmental detail into a piece of an existential puzzle. Artistically and technically, despite the constraints of budget and scale, the team has succeeded in crafting a cohesive and evocative atmosphere. The minimalist yet thoughtful visuals, the poetic interplay of light and shadow, and a meditative, well-integrated sound design coalesce to deliver an experience that lingers in the memory. Naturally, the slow pacing and minimal interaction – though integral to the game’s design – may prove demanding for players more attuned to dynamic or goal-oriented gameplay. The lack of overt direction or conventional challenges can feel alienating to those seeking a clearer structure or sense of progression. In Rays of the Light is a game for a very specific audience: those who value games as artistic expression, who find meaning in stillness and subtlety, and who welcome the opportunity to reflect rather than rush. It is not a title meant for quick sessions or fleeting amusement, but a contemplative work to be absorbed with care and attention. On a personal note, I recommend this game to anyone interested in indie experiences that break the mold, to those drawn to atmospheric and symbolic storytelling, and to players unafraid of confronting silence and solitude. While not without its flaws, In Rays of the Light is a testament to how games can tell complex stories and prompt reflection—transcending mere mechanics. Its short but fitting length doesn’t offer answers so much as it teaches us to ask the right questions. And given its incredibly accessible price, it’s an opportunity well worth taking.

Brilliant sound. A remaster to take into account.

Sure, ‘In rays of the Light’ may not be an RPG, but it’s a new indie that still grabbed our attention; how does this first-person adventure stack up?

In Rays of the Light is another successful game from Sergey Noskov and Sometimes You with good puzzles and outstanding sounds and music creating a tense atmosphere. It is a short game but a good one to finish over a couple of nights and is worth a playthrough for puzzle game fans after a thought-provoking story.

In Rays of the Light is a really good, if brief, atmospheric adventure that will provide players at least some moments of introspection.

In general my history with walking simulators has been mixed, at best...

There is a lot to appreciate here: the atmosphere and general presentation are super well done and were just enough to ensure that I was never fully against my time with the game. Yet the story did not do anything for me, and if you’re not into the story with a walking sim it is for sure a recipe for a bad time. There is an audience for In Rays of the Light, with the two endings providing a small reason to go back (as well as looking for some notes to expand upon the narrative), fans of the genre will be right at home here—while others may find the experience swiftly forgotten upon the credits rolling.

The slow-paced gameplay and freedom to analyse the story will not be everyone’s cup of tea. I lapped up the atmosphere and unnerving environment and enjoyed how the plot evolved the further it progressed. The puzzles were interesting, but lacked challenge and depth. The controls weren’t great, but you easily adjust to them and move on. I recommend this for the presentation alone, so buy it here! In Rays of the Light proves that beauty can exist in the darkest and most desolate of places.

In Rays of the Light is a massively disappointing game hampered by its confusing nature and abysmal optimization. So far, it’s the PS5-specific game with the single worst framerate in the console’s fresh, yet ever growing library. It’s a shame, considering that Sergey Noskov’s previous effort was such a delightful surprise, but this one fails to deliver in every single aspect except its soundtrack.