One problem that has plagued games of this ilk from the beginning is how easy it is to trivialise combat with the so-called “combat mambo”. Attack a monster, then quickly sidestep and turn to face where the monster will move. Repeat until it dies.

Past games tried various monster AI routines, which Grimrock also does but then goes one further and subtly builds the levels around the monster's strengths, giving them the home-field advantage.

The game feels lonely at times as there is no one around to talk to, but this benefits the overall atmosphere as the sense of isolation adds an element of survival to the game, making players rely more on their supplies and the game's crafting system.

Legend of Grimrock turned out to be a surprise hit, selling nearly one million units and paying for its development in less than a week. A sequel was therefore inevitable, and Legend of Grimrock II roared onto the scene in 2014. Instead of a mountain prison, the party is now stranded on a remote island, allowing for non-linear exploration in every direction.

The sequel is superior to the original in almost every sense, adding underwater areas, boss battles, smarter monsters and a stronger emphasis on vertical movement... and yet it somehow failed to rival the impact (and sales) of the first game.