Dark Echo is a thrilling adventure game set in the total darkness of an underground cave, which forces us to navigate using soundwaves that are visualized on the screen.

Every sound created as we walk around the cave generates soundwaves that get represented as lines of different colors. These waves obey the real laws of physics by bouncing off of surfaces, which means although we cannot see the actual objects and obstacles that are all around us, we can perceive our surroundings by analyzing the echo created by these waves as we move forward in search of an exit.

To navigate the cave and avoid threats, we can run, sneak to stay as quiet as possible, clap to generate a lot of waves at the same time, or throw stones to cause audial distractions. The latter becomes especially important in later levels where there are hungry monsters lurking in the dark that can only hunt their prey if they can hear it.

As we progress through 80 levels, more and more mechanics are added, such as deadly pits, locked doors, moving walls, collapsing passages, water basins, and much more. Some levels require that we run for our life, some demand that we stay quiet and unnoticeable, and others can be solved using whichever approach we deem most suitable. This constant introduction of new mechanics ensures that we’re kept occupied till the very end, creating a great gameplay experience.

Dark Echo is a $1.99 game without ads or iAPs. It is one of those truly unique and surreal experiences everyone should try, especially while sitting in a dark room with headphones on.