Baba Is You – Redefining Puzzle Games
Baba Is You is a critically acclaimed indie puzzle game created by Arvi Teikari (Hempuli). Originally developed for a game jam in 2017 and later expanded into a full release in 2019, the game stands out for its groundbreaking mechanic: you don’t just follow the rules—you change them.
There isn’t a traditional storyline in Baba Is You. Instead, the game unfolds through its innovative puzzle design. Players take control of “Baba,” a simple white creature, and navigate levels where the rules of the game world are written out as movable text blocks. By rearranging these words, you alter the logic of the puzzle itself—transforming walls into keys, turning obstacles into goals, or even redefining the player character entirely.
Gameplay
The genius of Baba Is You lies in its flexibility. Each stage presents a unique puzzle board filled with word blocks like “BABA IS YOU,” “FLAG IS WIN,” or “WALL IS STOP.” Moving these blocks rewrites the rules in real time, opening creative solutions that bend logic and challenge expectations. The mechanics start simple but grow increasingly complex, requiring both lateral thinking and experimentation.
Features
Revolutionary Mechanics: Change the rules of the game itself to solve puzzles.
Challenging Levels: Over 200 puzzles ranging from simple to brain-meltingly difficult.
Award-Winning Design: Winner of multiple indie game awards, praised for originality.
Expansions: Free updates have added new levels, mechanics, and challenges since release.
Accessible Yet Deep: Simple visuals make it approachable, while puzzles test even veteran players.
With its unique rule-bending gameplay, minimalist visuals, and endless creativity, Baba Is You has become one of the most influential indie puzzle games of the decade.