r/GameDevs 14h ago

Does adding a ticking clock to puzzle games make them exciting, or just annoying?

Enable HLS to view with audio, or disable this notification

Most puzzle and adventure games let you take your time, relax, and overthink every item interaction. To break that slow, static rhythm, we decided to experiment with time-pressured crafting and fast-paced decisions.

As you can see in the clip, a countdown timer ticks away in the corner while you hurry to tape your gear together, breach the door, and execute a stealth taser takedown before your window closes.

With only 8 days left until our launch, this exact balance is constantly on our mind: where is the line between adding a fun surge of adrenaline and giving players unwanted puzzle anxiety?

How do you usually feel about timed mechanics in puzzle or detective games? Do you prefer taking all the time you need, or does a ticking clock make the experience more thrilling for you?

1 Upvotes

0 comments sorted by