Finding the hidden coves in Driftwood Isles

Driftwood Isles rewards slow players, which was a relief after a run of twitchy games. Rushing through the islands means missing most of what makes it special.

Many secrets are hidden behind simple environmental puzzles, usually involving moving an object or interacting with something twice. If an area looks a little too empty, there's probably something to uncover there.

Watch the water, too. Some coves only reveal themselves when you sail close at certain points, and the game subtly nudges you with a change in the music. We learned to trust that audio cue.

Talk to every character more than once. Their second lines of dialogue often hint at where to look next, and a few of them point directly to hidden spots.

It's a game best played with the sound on and the clock ignored. Let yourself wander and the isles open up.