Luxora: a beginner's guide to your first voyage

When we first launched Luxora, we did what most people probably do: we sailed off in a straight line toward the biggest island we could see. That was a mistake. The reefs near the starting cove are easy to clip, and Luxora doesn't hold your hand about them. Take the shallow route hugging the shore first and get comfortable with the boat's turning circle.

The map is the real heart of Luxora. Every island you sketch fills in a bit more of the coastline, and the game quietly tracks what you've missed. We recommend fully sketching each island before moving on, because backtracking across open water eats a surprising amount of your play session.

Talk to every lighthouse keeper. It sounds obvious, but their notes hint at where the optional islands sit, and one of them handed us a shortcut we would never have found otherwise. Their dialogue also carries most of the story, so skipping it leaves the ending feeling thinner than it should.

Pinch-zoom is your friend during rough weather. When visibility drops, zoom out to keep your bearings rather than squinting at the horizon. It saved us from drifting off course more than once.

By the time you reach the northern islands, you'll have a feel for the rhythm of the game. Luxora never rushes you, so let it breathe. It's one of the most calming adventures we've played on mobile this year.