GDC 2010: Puzzle Quest 2 Impressions

Puzzle Quest was one of the biggest surprises of 2007. Initially launching on handhelds and spreading like wildfire across console and PC platforms soon there after, the "just right" mixture of puzzle fundamentals and RPG storytelling struck a chord with casuals and core gamers. In making the true sequel (remember, Galactrix was a spin-off), Infinite Interactive has the challenge of finding ways to improve the game for both audiences while maintaining the careful balance between the two. Going by the demo they showing off at GDC, the developers behind Puzzle Quest 2 did a fantastic job of accessing what they needed to be reworked and what should remain untouched.

In the "reworked" category, you'll notice a total revamp of the story presentation. No longer will players move a little marker around on a map. Instead they'll move a character around the world through a Diablo-like isometric perspective. The overall art style has moved away from an anime inspired look into something I would describe as "Heavy Metal" fantasy. It sounds like a small change, but seeing your character and their environments up close really helps set the stage and new look is definitely an improvement.

The simple "match 3" styled puzzle game remains largely the same, but a few new additions keep it fresh. For starters, character information that doesn't have much to do with the battle (experience points, gold, etc.) have been removed from the screen, allowing the grid itself to be a little bit larger. Your character will be able to use weapons this time around once they've cleared special "Gauntlet" gems. Weapons work similar to spells, but help balance out the differences between the game's 4 character classes. For those that want to fully customize their character, the sequel also features stat modifiers that can give your characters enhanced attacks or buff your defenses.

Infinite Interactive's demo did a great job of looking at what other have done with the genre since they entered the scene in 2007 and added their own twists. From adding smaller elements of visual flair to reworking how story progresses, the game feels like a true sequel in every way imaginable. The only bad part about it was that it ended and now I have to wait until late spring for the 360 or DS release.