Prune is a beautifully minimalistic and poetic game about tree cultivation. Its relaxing gameplay, combined with a soothing soundtrack and elegant visuals, make it not just a game, but an experience that celebrates the beauty of growth and life.
Prune is a unique, minimalist puzzle game developed by Joel McDonald and released in 2015. The game is an ode to the beauty of trees and the act of cultivating them. It's a touch-based game where the player's primary objective is to prune a tree in such a manner that it grows into the light while avoiding obstacles and dangers such as red zones which represent death to the tree.
The gameplay mechanics are simple yet profound. The player swipes the screen to prune branches, which encourages the tree to grow in the opposite direction. As levels progress, the difficulty increases with the introduction of various elements that either hinder or assist the growth of the tree. This tranquil and meditative game is not only about strategic cutting but also about experiencing the serene environment.
The art style of Prune is distinct with its minimalist graphics and soft, pastel color palette, which complements the soothing soundtrack that immerses the player in the game's tranquil atmosphere. The game received critical acclaim for its artistic design and was praised for its calming gameplay, which provides a respite from fast-paced action games.
Prune's level design and progression system encourage the player to think creatively and plan their cuts strategically. There's no text or dialogue in the game, which reinforces the game's universal appeal and accessibility. The game received numerous awards and was featured by Apple as one of the standout games of 2015 due to its artistic achievement and innovative gameplay.