39 Facts About Unravel (Video Game)

What is Unravel?

Unravel is a visually stunning puzzle platformer developed by Coldwood Interactive and published by Electronic Arts. The game features a small, endearing character named Yarny, made entirely of red yarn. Players guide Yarny through various environments, solving puzzles and overcoming obstacles.

1. Unravel was first announced at E3 2015, capturing the hearts of many with its unique art style and heartfelt story.
2. The game was officially released on February 9, 2016, for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Microsoft Windows.
3. Unravel was developed by a small team at Coldwood Interactive, a Swedish studio.
4. The game's protagonist, Yarny, unravels as he moves, using his yarn to solve puzzles and navigate the world.
5. Unravel's story is inspired by creative director Martin Sahlin's family and personal experiences.

Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay in Unravel revolves around using Yarny's yarn to interact with the environment. Players must think creatively to solve puzzles and progress through the levels.

6. Yarny can swing from yarn lasso points, similar to a grappling hook.
7. Players can create bridges by tying yarn between two points, allowing Yarny to walk across gaps.
8. Yarny can pull objects using his yarn, which is essential for solving many puzzles.
9. The game features a limited amount of yarn, requiring players to find more yarn to continue their journey.
10. Environmental hazards like water and fire can unravel Yarny, adding an extra layer of challenge.

Visuals and Soundtrack

Unravel is known for its breathtaking visuals and emotionally resonant soundtrack, which together create an immersive experience.

11. The game's environments are inspired by the natural beauty of northern Scandinavia.
12. Unravel uses photorealistic graphics to create detailed and lifelike settings.
13. The soundtrack, composed by Frida Johansson and Henrik Oja, features traditional Swedish folk music.
14. The music dynamically changes to reflect the mood and pace of the gameplay.
15. Unravel's art style and music work together to evoke a sense of nostalgia and emotional depth.

Critical Reception

Unravel received generally positive reviews from critics and players alike, praised for its visuals, story, and innovative gameplay.

16. The game holds a Metacritic score of 81/100 for PlayStation 4.
17. Critics praised the game's emotional storytelling and unique protagonist.
18. Some reviewers noted that the puzzles could be challenging but rewarding.
19. Unravel was nominated for several awards, including Best Art Direction at The Game Awards 2016.
20. The game won the award for Best Original Game at the 2016 Develop Awards.

Sequel and Legacy

Due to its success, Unravel spawned a sequel, continuing the adventures of Yarny and introducing new gameplay elements.

21. Unravel Two was announced and released on June 9, 2018, during EA Play.
22. The sequel introduced co-op gameplay, allowing two players to control two Yarnys.
23. Unravel Two features a more dynamic and fast-paced gameplay style compared to the original.
24. The sequel received positive reviews, with praise for its co-op mechanics and level design.
25. Unravel and its sequel have inspired a dedicated fanbase, with many creating fan art and sharing their experiences online.

Behind the Scenes

The development of Unravel was a labor of love for the team at Coldwood Interactive, with many interesting stories from behind the scenes.

26. Martin Sahlin, the creative director, created the first Yarny prototype using wire and red yarn during a camping trip.
27. The game's development was heavily influenced by the natural landscapes of Sweden.
28. The team used real-world objects and textures to create the game's photorealistic environments.
29. Unravel's story was intentionally left open to interpretation, allowing players to find their own meaning.
30. The developers aimed to create a game that felt personal and heartfelt, resonating with players on an emotional level.

Fun Facts

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Unravel that add to its charm and appeal.

31. Yarny's design was inspired by the idea of connection and the bonds that tie people together.
32. The game features hidden collectibles called "secrets," which unlock additional content and artwork.
33. Unravel's development team consisted of only 14 people.
34. The game was initially prototyped using Unity before switching to the PhyreEngine.
35. Yarny's name was chosen to reflect his nature and the central theme of the game.

Cultural Impact

Unravel has left a lasting impact on the gaming community and beyond, influencing other games and media.

36. The game has been praised for its representation of Scandinavian culture and landscapes.
37. Unravel has been used in educational settings to teach game design and storytelling.
38. The game's themes of love, loss, and connection have resonated with players worldwide.
39. Unravel has inspired other indie games to focus on emotional storytelling and unique art styles.

Final Thoughts on Unravel

Unravel isn't just a game; it's an experience. With its stunning visuals, emotional storytelling, and unique gameplay mechanics, it stands out in the world of video games. The character of Yarny captures hearts, making players feel connected to his journey. The Swedish landscapes and beautiful soundtrack add depth, creating an immersive environment. Unravel teaches us about love, loss, and the importance of memories. It’s a reminder that even the smallest things can make a big impact. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the scene, Unravel offers something special. It’s a game that stays with you long after you’ve put down the controller. So, if you haven’t played it yet, give it a try. You might just find yourself wrapped up in Yarny’s world.