PyloricSphincter
Puyo Pop is one of the most famous puzzle games in Japan, with over 20 versions made. But in the US, its not that well known. Actually, it was released here under the names Dr. Robotniks Mean Bean machine and Kirbys Avalanche, but never under its original name. But Sonic Team finally decided to give this game the recognition it deserves and bring it to the US on the GBA.
Puyo Pop is an insanely addictive puzzle game mainly because of its simplicity. Its almost simpler than Tetris. The game uses Puyos, or little bean balls, as the main puzzle item. If you connect 4 or more of them, they disappear. Thats it. The more you clear, such as in huge chain combos you can create, the more garbage blocks you send to your opponent. Its simple for beginners and for experts alike.
The controls are perfect. Well, thats not saying much, considering its really hard to mess up the controls on a puzzle game, but theyre good nonetheless. As for the sound, The Japanese voices, like always, are hilarious to hear, and the music (even though only a few tracks) is exciting and made for a puzzle game. The graphics are adequate enough too, but the bland black backgrounds could have been more colored.
Add all this on to an Endless, Story, and some of the greatest multiplayer action on a handheld, theres no way you can go wrong with Puyo Pop.
Graphics: 8.5- The colors of the puzzle pieces are bright and easy to see, which is great. But the bland backgrounds could have been more exciting.
Sound: 9.0- Great anime voices, and the music is also well suited to a puzzle game. More music tracks wouldve been nice though.
Control: 10- What else can I say? Its very hard to mess these up.
Replay: 9.5- The Story Mode and multiplayer options are some of the best Ive seen in a while. Will keep you playing for weeks.
Overall: 9.4- One of the best puzzle games in years, and on a handheld? Best. idea..ever.
