One of Steam‘s most memorable puzzle games has just received its first major update in more than a decade. Originally released in 2013, The Swapper has earned praise for its gameplay, eerie atmosphere, and thought-provoking narrative. Now it returns with improved visuals, updated audio, bug fixes, and official Steam Deck verification.

Developed by Facepalm Games, The Swapper places players aboard a derelict space station where they control a mysterious device that creates clones and allows consciousness to shift between them. Each clone mimics the player’s movements, and solving puzzles requires clever coordination and strategic sacrifice. These mechanics are woven into a story that explores themes of identity, mortality, and selfhood.

The recent update brings several enhancements. Visual improvements include light dithering, sharper depth-of-field effects, better texture resolution, and smoother bump-map anti-aliasing. Audio has been refined with more natural sound panning and a louder text cue. These changes are designed to feel subtle but make the game smoother and more immersive, especially on smaller screens.

Players who prefer the original can access a legacy version on Steam that maintains the updated stability fixes while preserving the original look and feel. This gives returning players the option to experience the game as they remember it.

One of the biggest additions is official Steam Deck support. The game now runs in handheld mode. Facepalm recommends the updated main version for portable play, as the visual refinements have a more noticeable impact at lower resolutions. While The Swapper predates the Steam Deck by years, it turns out to be a perfect match for quiet, focused gameplay on the go.

If you have not tried The Swapper before, this is an excellent time. It is currently available for $2.24 on Steam until June 5, discounted from its regular price of $14.99. The game holds very positive reviews for its claymation-style visuals, atmospheric sound design, and layered storytelling. Written by Tom Jubert, who also worked on The Talos Principle and Faster Than Light, the story unfolds through exploration, cryptic terminals, and even talking rocks.

Puzzle games continue to rise in popularity, from daily word challenges to immersive escape rooms. These games offer more than just entertainment. Research shows they can boost cognitive abilities, sharpen memory, and improve attention span. They activate key parts of the brain that support reasoning, planning, and focus.

The Swapper remains a standout title that combines art, intellect, and introspection. It is not just about solving puzzles. It is about confronting what it means to be you.