Coil
Introduction to Coil
Coil came out in 2008 and stands as an experimental flash title. Edmund McMillen and Florian Himsl created it. Seven segments form a journey from fertilization to birth. Players steer shapes through each stage by moving the cursor instead of clicking. Each segment flows into the next and invites players to find meaning in the abstract sequence.
Coil leaves out detailed directions. Anyone jumping in has to learn how objects respond with a few gestures. The sights blend with sounds. They create an atmosphere more like a living painting than a typical game. Reviewers and players praised this style. It puts ideas ahead of simple goals.
A core group of fans has kept Coil alive online. Indie showcase sites still host it. People find and share it today. Its success proves games can serve as art and deliver more than pure fun. Coil turns a simple play session into a moment of reflection.