Draknek & Friends Unveils Gravity-Shifting Puzzle Game 'He Who Watches'

Solo developer Bobby Vanden of Danga Games has unveiled 'He Who Watches,' a first-person puzzle experience that reimagines traditional spatial logic. Published by Draknek & Friends, the title is scheduled for a 2026 release on PC via Steam.

The game functions as a three-dimensional evolution of the Sokoban genre, tasking players with navigating complex environments to solve puzzles. Core gameplay revolves around a magical bow used to shift blocks and a gravity-flipping mechanic that allows players to walk on walls and ceilings. According to Gamer Social Club, the game features over 120 puzzles with an expected playtime of 10 to 15 hours. The title will be priced at $20 on PC.

A New Direction for 'Thinky' Games

'He Who Watches' enters a market defined by high-concept spatial puzzles, drawing comparisons from outlets like PC Gamer and Polygon to titles such as 'Portal' and 'Legend of Grimrock.' The game is being released through Draknek & Friends, a publisher recognized for its specialization in "thinky" puzzle games and its association with the Thinky Awards. Alan Hazelden noted that this marks the first time the publisher has handled a first-person game featuring such intricate three-dimensional puzzles.

Evolving the Puzzle Genre

The project represents a shift in how 3D Sokoban mechanics are implemented, blending gravity manipulation with a structured approach to player learning. By utilizing mini-puzzle chambers to introduce core concepts, the game aims to mitigate the frustration often associated with high-difficulty puzzle titles. This design choice allows players to master the game's mind-bending logic in a controlled environment before tackling more expansive challenges.

The Road to 2026

For Bobby Vanden, the project is the culmination of several years of development. "He Who Watches has been a labor of love for quite a few years now, and I cannot wait for people to play it," Vanden told Gamer Social Club. While the core mechanics and puzzle count are confirmed, players will have to wait until 2026 to experience the full release on Steam.