Tiny fox, big world, and a manual in an unknown language you decode page by page: Tunic plays the mystery card all the way through.

The profile is split, and that's what makes it interesting. Art direction scores high, ahead of 96% of games, with its charming isometric look that clearly stuck with the community. Connection follows, ahead of 94% of games, along with rediscovery at 93%. That tracks for a game built entirely around progressively uncovering its own rules.

On the other hand, everything tied to immediate enjoyment drops back. Fun and controller feel sit around the middle, ahead of roughly 55% to 60% of games. The desert island score lands at 59%, decent but nothing more. The soundtrack falls further behind, ahead of only 29% of games.

That tension is telling. Tunic doesn't live off its combat or moment-to-moment feel, it lives off its world and that rare feeling of piecing together its manual. It's a game that leaves a mark, not one that gives you a quick thrill.

Who's it for? The curious, the ones who enjoy taking notes and poking around. Skip it if you want snappy combat or gameplay that delivers instant payoff.