14 Games Like Myst for Linux Gamers
Myst is an iconic adventure puzzle game that was initially released in 1993. Its immersive storytelling, beautiful graphics, and complex, intricate puzzles set it apart from other games of its time, quickly cementing it as a classic in the genre. As a player in Myst, you are transported to an eerily deserted island where you must navigate through different worlds, or “Ages,” solving puzzles to unlock the island’s secrets. This game not only defined a new era of point-and-click adventure games but also left a legacy that continues to influence game design today.
Even though it’s been decades since Myst was first launched, its impact on the gaming world is still apparent. Many games have since tried to replicate Myst’s unique blend of immersive storytelling and mind-boggling puzzles. Some have succeeded, and others have brought their unique spin on the genre.
In the following list, we’ll be exploring some Myst alternatives – mainly those that are available in native Linux versions.
Game 1: Beyond A Steel Sky (2020)
Beyond a Steel Sky is a cyberpunk-themed adventure puzzle game that should please most fans of Myst. It is a follow-up to the 1994 game Beneath a Steel Sky and offers a vast, dynamic world to explore, filled with engaging puzzles and a captivating storyline. Its comic book-style graphics and unique “virtual theater” system, which allows non-player characters to act independently, make Beyond a Steel Sky a standout in the genre.
Game 2: Firewatch (2016)
Firewatch is a first-person adventure game that emphasizes character development and storytelling. Set in the Wyoming wilderness, you play as a fire lookout named Henry. The only contact with the outside world is your supervisor, Delilah, who communicates via a handheld radio. The game offers beautiful scenery, a strong narrative, and a sense of isolation that harkens back to the loneliness of Myst’s island.
Game 3: Broken Sword 5 – the Serpent’s Curse (2013)
Broken Sword 5: The Serpent’s Curse is a point-and-click adventure game that’s not exactly like Myst but has similar mechanics and atmosphere. This game carries forward the tradition of the Broken Sword series with its engaging storyline, challenging puzzles, and beautifully hand-drawn graphics. Playing as George Stobbart and Nico Collard, you’re tasked with unraveling a conspiracy that revolves around a stolen painting and a murderous conspiracy.
Game 4: The Wild Case (2021)
The Wild Case is a mystery adventure game with a compelling storyline and challenging puzzles. The game’s point-and-click gameplay, detailed graphics, and interesting characters create an immersive world that will keep you engaged. In the game, you play as a detective tasked with investigating a remote village in the woods where wild animals have been spotted behaving unusually.
Game 5: AER – Memories of Old (2017)
AER – Memories of Old offers a nice blend of exploration and puzzle-solving. With its serene, open-world environment, beautiful low-poly art style, and intriguing narrative, AER provides a unique gaming experience somewhat similar to Myst. As Auk, a girl with the ability to transform into a bird, you’ll fly to explore ancient ruins, encounter mystical creatures, and solve puzzles to uncover the secrets of your world.
Game 6: Trüberbrook (2019)
Trüberbrook is a visually stunning adventure game with a unique art style. The game’s setting is modeled with real miniature scale models, creating an incredibly detailed and distinctive aesthetic. Coupled with its intriguing sci-fi narrative and thoughtful puzzle design, Trüberbrook offers a gaming experience that is both nostalgic and refreshing.
Game 7: Unforeseen Incidents (2018)
Unforeseen Incidents is a classic style point-and-click adventure game with a beautifully hand-painted world. The game’s compelling story, well-written dialogue, and challenging puzzles make it a must-play for any Myst fan. Playing as handyman Harper Pendrell, you find yourself in the midst of a mysterious disease outbreak and are tasked with uncovering a conspiracy that threatens your town.
Game 8: Botanicula (2012)
Botanicula is an adventure game that stands out with its unique design and quirky humor. This game follows a group of cute creatures on a quest to save their home tree’s last seed from parasitic pests. With its unique puzzles, charming characters, and satisfying soundtrack, Botanicula offers a lighthearted gaming experience that is both entertaining and engaging.
Game 9: The Great Perhaps (2019)
The Great Perhaps is a time-traveling puzzle adventure game with a effective narrative. The game’s unique mechanic of switching between past and present to solve puzzles adds a layer of complexity and intrigue. As a cosmonaut returning to an Earth devastated by an unknown catastrophe, you must navigate through time to uncover the truth behind humanity’s downfall.
Game 10: Return To Monkey Island (2022)
Return To Monkey Island is the long-awaited sequel to the classic Monkey Island series. This point-and-click adventure game continues the comedic and puzzling journey of Guybrush Threepwood, a wannabe pirate navigating the eccentricities of Monkey Island. With its witty dialogue, challenging puzzles, and beloved characters, Return To Monkey Island is sure to be a hit with fans of the original series and newcomers alike.
Game 11: What Never Was (2019)
What Never Was is a short, story-driven adventure game that offers an engaging narrative and intriguing puzzles. In this game, you play as Sarah, who is tasked with clearing out her grandfather’s attic, only to find it filled with artifacts from his travels and cryptic notes. It’s a small but beautifully crafted game that will resonate with fans of the narrative-driven puzzle genre. The puzzles are quite easy, which might be a good thing if you mostly want to enjoy the story.
Game 12: Boxville (2022)
Boxville is a puzzle adventure game that takes place in a world made entirely of cardboard. This game offers a unique perspective on the puzzle genre, as you manipulate the cardboard environment to solve puzzles. With its whimsical art style, quirky story, and innovative puzzles, Boxville offers a fresh and fun gaming experience.
Game 13: The Excavation Of Hob’s Barrow (2022)
The Excavation Of Hob’s Barrow is a point-and-click adventure game that combines archaeology with folklore. In this game, you’ll delve into an ancient barrow to uncover its secrets and decipher the truth behind the local folklore. With its atmospheric setting, intriguing narrative, and challenging puzzles, this game offers a unique twist on the adventure puzzle genre.
Game 14: Delores: A Thimbleweed Park Mini-Adventure (2020)
Delores: A Thimbleweed Park Mini-Adventure is a standalone spin-off of Thimbleweed Park, offering a return to the quirky world of the original game. As Delores, a photographer and aspiring game developer, you’ll solve puzzles and uncover secrets in the strange and humorous town of Thimbleweed Park. This mini-adventure offers a taste of the original game’s charm and mystery, making it a delightful addition to any adventure game fan’s library.