Beguiling- Picross 3D Review

Michelangelo once wrote, “Every block of stone has a statue inside it and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it.” Although recent release Picross 3D doesn’t allow players to create any artistry that rivals the work of a Renaissance artist, the title delivers a delightful sense of gratification as players chisel away at an impressive succession of blocks. The removal of each piece isn’t determined by aesthetics; instead each block is either retained or removed based on a carefully cultivated set of deductive rules, creating a fascinating package that is certain to mesmerize puzzle enthusiasts.

Those who recall the flat conundrums of 2007’s Picross DS may worry that the addition of a third dimension may bring superfluous complication to an already complex series of head scratchers. After all, the idyllic simplicity of many capable 2D franchises have been sullied by an unwarranted inclusion of the Z-axis – a condition known by anyone who has ever played Sonic 3D Blast, Worms 3D or Castlevania (1999). Fortunately, adding depth to Picross’s puzzles embeds each brainteaser with a mesmerizing strategic component as well as a bit of personality.

Each block-like puzzle in Picross requires a methodical process to solve. Numbers shown on the edge of each row or column indicate how many consecutive blocks are to be saved. If a number is circled, the game is conveying an interrupted secession of chunks in each horizontal or vertical line. By judiciously marking some cubes to be kept and eliminating others, the player gradually reveals a rudimentary shape, such as the letter “K” or a giraffe. Once the proper amounts of blocks are removed, the figurine is brought to life by a splash of color and a simple animation.

While coloring and cutting in 3D could have easily suffered from imprecise stylus control, Picross 3D’s intelligent interface is usually transparent. Players can easily access blocks hidden inside each puzzle by moving a horizontal or vertical slider that conveniently conceals whole planes. Only when players are creating their own puzzles does the title get lax; even this quirk can be remedied by careful camera control.

Picross 3D’s robust online functionality should maintain a player’s interest after the cartridge’s 350 conundrums are conquered.  Once connected to Nintendo’s servers, gamers may upload their own creations to compete in periodic contests, or download supplemental puzzles packs. Players in close proxemic distance may share their creations with other players, or even download a demo version of the title.

Like most puzzlers, they’ll be times when the solution to a specific stage isn’t evident, compelling baffled gamers to either imprudently chip away at blocks, or quick save the level and return to it with a fresh set of eyes. Skillfully, not being able to complete a puzzle typically doesn’t bring Picross 3D to a grinding halt. The title presents waves of challenges to players, so if players don’t dominate one enigma, there’s usually a handful more waiting to be resolved. One element that is woefully absent if any kind of hint feature to assist perplexed participants.

Like Nintendo’s reasonably priced Brain Age series, Picross 3D value is elevated by its $19.99 MSRP, creating an obligatory purchase for puzzle enthusiasts. With an effective tutorial and a cornucopia of conundrums for every skill level, the title is sure to keep gamers obsessed for a protracted period of time. By releasing compelling and affordable games like Picross 3D, Nintendo seems poised to maintain the popularity of their portable system for the foreseeable future.