We Were Here is a cooperative puzzle adventure game that emphasizes teamwork and communication between two players. Set in a chilling abandoned castle in a frozen wasteland, it serves as the free introductory episode in a series of standalone titles from Total Mayhem Games. Released in 2017, this indie title draws inspiration from classics like Myst and Amnesia: The Dark Descent, blending exploration with brain-teasing challenges that require precise verbal exchanges over a walkie-talkie.
Gameplay
In We Were Here, the core loop revolves around two players working together to escape an eerie castle through a series of interconnected puzzles. One player takes on the role of the confined individual, limited to a small area, while the other acts as the explorer, navigating larger sections of the building. Success depends entirely on voice communication, as each person sees different clues and environmental details that the other needs to progress. Puzzles test observation skills, logic, and the ability to describe surroundings accurately, creating an asymmetric experience where roles can influence the overall challenge. The game mandates a working microphone for both participants, turning every session into a test of partnership and clear articulation.
Exploration plays a key role, with players searching for hints in a setting inspired by real-world locations like Castle Rock in Antarctica. Mechanics focus on cooperative problem-solving without combat or time-based pressures, though the atmospheric tension builds through dim lighting and mysterious lore. Sessions typically last a couple of hours, making it suitable for a single evening playthrough.
Game Modes
We Were Here features a single cooperative mode designed exclusively for two players. There are no solo options or additional multiplayer variants; the entire experience is built around this duo setup. Players connect online, and the game assigns roles randomly, ensuring each run feels distinct based on who handles which perspective.
Key Features
Several elements stand out in We Were Here, including its 26 Steam achievements that reward puzzle completion and exploration milestones. The title supports cross-platform play between PC and macOS, with language options extending to 22 subtitles for broader accessibility. Its puzzle design draws from real-life escape rooms, incorporating riddles that demand creative thinking and mutual trust.
Supported platforms include:
- Windows 10 or later
- macOS 11 or higher
Is It Worth Playing?
For fans of cooperative puzzle games that prioritize communication over action, We Were Here offers a compelling entry point. With an overall Very Positive rating on Steam from 31,951 reviews (89% positive), and recent reviews maintaining a Very Positive status (84% positive from 265 reviews), it has sustained appeal years after launch. The free availability removes any financial barrier, making it easy to try with a friend or even a stranger for added unpredictability.
If you enjoy titles that challenge interpersonal dynamics and quick thinking in a tense setting, this game delivers value in its concise format. However, those seeking complex mechanics or solo play might find it limited, as it lacks ongoing updates or expansions beyond the core episode. Overall, it suits short, engaging sessions focused on collaboration.
