Lorelei and the Laser Eyes Review: The Puzzle Hotel for True Tinkerers

Lorelei and the Laser Eyes is a game for people who like sitting in front of the screen with pen and paper. In an abandoned hotel, you solve puzzles that combine math, art and logic. It was developed by Sweden's Simogo, known for Sayonara Wild Hearts, and published by Annapurna Interactive. It launched on May 16, 2024.

We filled up notepads and reveal who the puzzle hotel is worth it for. On Steam, around 93 percent of reviews are positive.

Lorelei and the Laser Eyes: How the puzzles play

You explore the hotel from a bird's-eye view and come across locked doors, boxes and devices. Almost everything can be opened with a code, and the clues are hidden in books, paintings, photos and documents. The game explains nothing; you have to figure out for yourself which clue goes where.

The puzzles range from simple combination locks to complex challenges that require several layers of logic. A notebook next to your keyboard is a must. The game does have a memory system that stores important documents, but you have to remember a lot yourself.

Especially in the middle of the game, that can get frustrating when you're stuck at one spot. But if you stick with it, you're rewarded with aha moments you rarely experience.

Story and atmosphere

You play a woman invited to the hotel by an artist. What the place is all about gradually reveals itself through memories, film scenes and documents. The story is convoluted, cryptic and reminiscent of arthouse films. Not everyone will understand everything, but that's exactly part of the appeal.

Plan on 15 to 20 hours for a playthrough, depending on how quickly you crack the puzzles. Optional puzzles and secrets extend the game even further.

Graphics, sound and tech

Visually, Simogo goes for a strong style: black and white with red accents, low-poly models and overlays in the style of old computers. It feels cool, elegant and unmistakable. The soundtrack is minimalist and underscores the mysterious mood.

Technically, the game is very undemanding. You'll find the minimum requirements in the table below this article. On Steam Deck, it's Verified and, with a notebook in hand, works well on the couch.

You can read more about the studio on our Simogo page, and more about the publisher at Annapurna Interactive.

Scores at a glance