OVIVO is a captivating platformer that defies convention with its unique mechanics, where everything is depicted in simple black and white. This monochrome aesthetic is more than just a gimmick; it serves as a central metaphor for a game rich with illusions, hidden depths, and open-ended interpretations.

Launched in 2018 by Russian indie studio IzHard, OVIVO puts players in control of OVO, a character literally divided into black and white halves. Each color possesses its own gravity, pulling in opposite directions. By continuously switching between the two, OVO can navigate the puzzle-like levels. The momentum you generate is maintained when changing colors, allowing you to almost glide along the boundaries where contrasting gravity fields converge.

This innovative movement system is arguably OVIVO's most enticing feature. The mechanic introduces intricate new ways to traverse the environment. Mastering the art of chaining redirections and utilizing gravity shifts to soar through the air becomes immensely rewarding. Solving certain puzzles can feel akin to assembling a Rube Goldberg machine, connecting gravity bounces and mid-air flips. This gameplay underpins OVIVO's core themes, creating harmony from opposing forces.

Beyond its clever mechanics, OVIVO's enigmatic world is teeming with visual splendor. The stark 2D art style skillfully employs optical illusions, hidden images, and surreal transitions between areas. Giant hands, keys, and cryptic symbols are scattered throughout the landscape, suggesting a grand allegory. The striking visuals possess an eerie, dreamlike quality that draws you forward through minimalist corridor levels and stark subterranean spaces.

To fully engage players in this mysterious realm, OVIVO eschews excessive text and dialogue. The story unfolds through the scenery, music, and moments of revelation when solving puzzles. This design fosters a meditative, almost spiritual atmosphere. The ambient soundtrack by Brokenkites further enhances the otherworldly ambiance.

With no instructions beyond the core mechanics, OVIVO leaves much open to interpretation. Players are placed in a strange world and encouraged to decipher its secrets. This ambiguity allows for a more personal experience, enabling players to project their own meanings onto the game.

These elements coalesce to create an experience that is both cerebral and visceral. Even after unraveling OVIVO's narrative, its striking visuals and gratifying gameplay maintain an enduring allure. The novel gravity mechanic opens up new possibilities for movement and puzzle solving. Opposing forces harmonize to enable wondrous feats of platforming. OVIVO's cryptic world offers challenge and catharsis, with personal meaning waiting to be discovered. This inventive black-and-white game demonstrates that opposites can indeed attract.