Sat Oct 11 2025
Completely rewritten from scratch for iOS 26. Some interface improvements. App is now free.
Zotz is an abstract puzzle game that feels like it belongs in an art gallery. The gameplay is minimalist: you interact with shapes and symbols to trigger reactions and clear levels. It’s very much an experimental title—it doesn't give you much direction, which is part of its charm.
The sound design is atmospheric and helps create a 'zen' state while you play. While it might be too abstract for some, those who enjoy puzzle games like 'Knytt' or 'Zen Bound' will find a lot to like in its mysterious, understated presentation.
Unique, minimalist art direction
Ambient, immersive soundtrack
No-pressure gameplay with no timers
Challenging logic puzzles that defy tradition
In Zotz, every visual change is a clue. If a shape glows when you touch it, look for other shapes that mirror that glow. Success comes from understanding the patterns of the world rather than just fast reflexes.
Use taps and drags to move elements. Some levels require you to hold multiple points at once to 'activate' a sequence, so be prepared to use both hands!
The goal is to discover the underlying logic of each level to clear the symbols and progress deeper into the abstract world.
This is an attractive (and customizable!) game; the perfect combo of requiring some thought and quick gameplay. Great when you just need to kill a few minutes, but makes you think enough to stay interesting. Once you get the concept, it's fun! (Nice to be able to change the colors.) Once in a while it seems like you're stuck, but there has always been a solution!
This is just what I need when it's that part of the day (or that part of a flight) where my energy is dwindling. After a game or two, I'm invigorated and feel slightly smarter. (Disclaimer: I'm the editor of a couple of his books, which means I'm used to giving him honest feedback, which at the moment is just my wish for an iPad version.)
I like to think I'm especially good at pattern matching, but my first few minutes with Zotz! convinced me that I'm a rank amateur. This requires a little THINKING, but that's a GOOD thing. Got a few minutes to kill? Don't stare at the TV, or you'll be killing neurons along with time. Stare at Zotz! and you'll be giving those neurons a little exercise.
I really like this game, but it's not working with the new iPhone 5 upgrade. Didn't see any actual support on the Zotz! support page.
I love the game itself, but since the ios5 upgrade it crashes anytime a wrong selection is made. I'm thinking of deleting it, but I paid three bucks for it. So lately it's just been taking up space in my games folder.
Do not buy unless the bug is fixed. Should have read the reviews before purchasing...
Ever since the iPhone/iPad system upgrade it force closes!!! It's just awful now.... Please fix!!!