Planet Puzzle League

Review

A Tetris Clone with some great enhancements

June 8th, 2007 by JSnake

reviewed on NDS

There is also a bit of lag while playing online. It's nothing serious, but while playing, your foe's movements are erratic and spontaneous. Thankfully, there isn't any lag on the player's end of the field, but it makes it hard for people who want to watch and learn from the pros because all their movements are fidgety and bouncy. Overall, the WiFi is great fun and it adds tremendous replay value. It has its flaws, but they're nothing serious and they don't detract too much from the whole picture.

Bright and colourful fun

Being a puzzle game, PPL can get away with having simple 2D graphics, although the game does make great use of colors and rotating effects.
The graphics are so sharp you could cut your finger on them. The blocks are bright and vivid; the backgrounds have primitive 3D effects and blazing neon lights, and the whole game is filled with personality. The fact that each stage has its own block scheme and design is a great touch.

The Puzzle League series has always been known for its amazing soundtrack. To some people (including myself), Tetris Attack has the greatest soundtrack of any video game ever created, but PPL's music is definitely Puzzle League worthy even without Tetris Attack's 'wow' effect. But while Tetris Attack's music was very calming and relaxing, it wasn't the kind of music that gets you pumped. PPL's music definitely does that but some tunes are uneven. All of Tetris Attack's songs were great. You literally had a new favorite tune every level in contrast to PPL's soundtrack where you will quickly find your favourite piece and stick to it.

Replay value is through the roof. The inclusion of online play really makes the difference in this aspect. Without it, players would likely spend much less time on it. Add the fact that you will constantly be trying to beat your high-scores due to the addictive nature of the game, you have a heck of a time-waster! Unfortunately, PPL has no unlockable content. No hidden stages or anything. It's a bit of an annoyance especially since you would think there would be some reward for beating the difficult challenges the game throws at you.

DS game of the year?

Overall, PPL has much improved controls, a plethora of game modes, and an online mode. While the music doesn't match up Tetris Attack, and the online isn't without its flaws, PPL is, without a doubt, the best in the Puzzle League franchise. If we were nearing the end of the year, I would go so far as to declare it the handheld Game of the Year! This is definitely a must-buy for all DS owners and puzzle fans! If you're not a puzzle fan, this game will make you one!

9.0

fun score

No Pros and Cons at this time