"Picross 3D" Brings Puzzle Games Into Another Dimension

When Mario's Picross debuted for Game Boy in 1995, the game became a cult hit among hardcore puzzle fans. The simple sudoku-like concept was easy to grasp, but difficult to master. The controls for the game were rather cumbersome, but Nintendo was able to overcome the issue when they rehashed the series in 2007 and released Picross DS for their touchscreen handheld.

Since the reception of the game was so positive, this past Tuesday Nintendo released a third iteration of the series, Picross 3D. The original concept remains intact, but instead of solving puzzles on a traditional flat game board, the new title allows players to chisel away at a three dimensional cube to reveal the hidden image inside.



Those familiar with the series will find the gameplay self explanatory, but with Nintendo attempting to appeal to casual gamers, players will find themselves required to go through numerous, lengthy tutorials before they are able to get to the standard puzzles. Aside from being slow and tedious, the tutorials later begin to teach advanced problem solving techniques taking away most of the challeng
e that makes the series so appealing.

Once into the actual puzzles, however, the game becomes additively fun. Every completed puzzle yields an 8-bit animal or object which are then placed onto various different backgrounds. These begin to form scenes as more puzzles are mastered, making the game hard to put down as players will constantly wonder what will be added next.

With over 365 included puzzles, as well as downloadable puzzles and the ability to create your own, players will be able to spend lots of time with the game before they run out of things to do. Ratings stars are also awarded upon completion of each puzzle, depending on speed and the amount of errors, and they are used to unlock additional bonus puzzles, adding additional replay value.

Overall, Picross 3D is an incredible value for $20 and great for those who enjoy the puzzle genre. It is also a perfect game for entry-level players and would be an excellent gift for moms this Mother's Day.

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