Quell (video game)

Lore & Background

Quell was created by British studio Fallen Tree Games and released on August 7, 2010, for iOS and Android. In the game, players control a raindrop by swiping their finger in directions; the raindrop moves until it hits a wall. The objective is to touch every golden ball without getting stuck or hitting spikes. Additional puzzle elements such as switches, blocks, and gates introduce more complexity during gameplay. The game received a 'generally favorable' Metacritic score of 84 based on four critic reviews. AppSpy described it as 'a beautifully relaxing puzzle title to delve in to,' while Eurogamer noted its low price and zen-like quality. Slide to Play called it 'a simple puzzle game that you won't want to quit.'

Developer Fallen Tree Games released multiple sequels: Quell Reflect (announced and released August 19, 2011, for iOS, later on Android, Nintendo 3DS, and Steam); Quell Memento (released April 2013 for iOS, later on Android, Nintendo 3DS, PS VITA, and Steam, introducing light panels, batteries, colored beams, roses, and hidden timekeeper levels); and Quell Zen (announced and released July 2016 for iOS, Android, and Steam, introducing matching symbol tiles, poisoned pearls, and hidden Zen and Black Hole levels).

Reader's Guide

Quell's significance lies in its early success as a mobile puzzle game that combined simple touch controls with a calming aesthetic. The game's core mechanic—swiping to move a raindrop until it hits a wall—was praised for its accessibility and relaxing nature. Critics highlighted its ability to provide a zen-like experience, with Eurogamer noting its low price point and AppSpy emphasizing its beauty even during difficult puzzles. The game's 'generally favorable' Metacritic score of 84, based on four reviews, reflects its positive reception. Quell also established a series of sequels that expanded on its formula, with Quell Reflect, Quell Memento, and Quell Zen each introducing new puzzle elements such as switches, blocks, gates, light panels, batteries, colored beams, roses, hidden timekeeper levels, matching symbol tiles, poisoned pearls, and hidden Zen and Black Hole levels. The sequels were released across multiple platforms including iOS, Android, Nintendo 3DS, Steam, and PS VITA, demonstrating the franchise's longevity and adaptability. The game's legacy is tied to its role in popularizing thoughtful, minimalist puzzle games on mobile devices during the early 2010s.

Did You Know?

• Eurogamer compared the game's price to that of a packet of Extra gum.
• The sequel Quell Reflect was announced and released on August 19, 2011.