Quern: Undying Thoughts

Quern: Undying Thoughts is a single-player first-person adventure game done in the style of Myst and Riven: The Sequel to Myst. The game begins with the player transported through a mysterious portal to the deserted island of Quern. The location is filled with remnants of an ancient civilization, intricate machinery, and locked structures. A series of letters and clues left by a previous inhabitant guide the player through the island, hinting at the purpose of its mysteries and the possibility of escape. The player’s goal is to explore, solve the puzzles integrated into the landscape, and uncover the history of Quern while piecing together the truth of why they were brought there.

Gameplay focuses on environmental exploration and logic-based puzzle solving. The world is interconnected, with devices, structures, and mechanisms that must be carefully studied and activated in the correct sequence. Many puzzles are multi-step processes requiring observation, experimentation, and the combination of clues gathered from the environment. Unlike traditional inventory-heavy adventures, most progress is tied to interacting directly with the world rather than carrying numerous objects.

Progression is non-linear, with different parts of the island opening as the player solves puzzles, unlocks passageways, and activates machinery. Certain challenges require revisiting earlier areas once new knowledge or tools have been obtained. Notes, journals, and written symbols act as vital references, encouraging players to keep track of discovered information. The game emphasizes immersion by minimizing on-screen guidance, leaving players to rely on deduction and careful record-keeping.