When mixed together, the Marvel Comics universe and the “Puzzle Quest†engine are like chocolate and milk- you just can’t mess it up.
With tons of characters awesome abilities and easily over a hundred levels, this is simply one of the best takes on the “Puzzle Quest†formula yet. The comic book-inspired story of bevy of cool characters and abilities to make the match three puzzle game more than the sum of its parts. Although the game could have benefitted with voice-overs and a few more bells and whistles, it’s an amazing puzzle game that works great in single-player and is just as fun with a pair of players.
Those that have played this game on Android and iOS remember it as addictive, but not being bound by the limitations of the mobile game, “Marvel Puzzle Quest: Dark Reign†will immediately harken many older gamers to the series on the Xbox 360. Just as immersive, but with a better story, it’s the type of game you can invest a few minutes in if you need a quick fix, but also something you can spend hours with.
It’s also a perfect introduction to the puzzle genre for young gamers. Much like “Pokemon Shuffle,†it’s awesome use of its license will bring in novices and turn them into instant fans. Forcing them to think on their toes as well and its the type of game you wouldn’t mind your kid getting lost in front of for a few hours. For hardcore gamers, the match-three gameplay is a throwback, it’s been done before, but with the level up ability, team-ups and wide-ranging story, “Marvel Puzzle Quest: Dark Reign†is one of the deepest, most immersive console puzzle games of all time.
It also helps that the game has top shelf art. While the animations for special attacks are solid as well, it’s those character cut-outs and comic book covers that add an extra level to the eye candy. Although they are small touches, it’s always fun to see a character pull off a special move. Overall, with tried and true gameplay, the visuals aren’t the most important element, but it’s a nice touch and it’s something that shows D3 and Marvel worked extremely closely on this title.
With that being said, voice-overs could have gone a long way here. There’s just so many awesome characters, all with their own level of charisma and personality. Seeing them come to life on the screen, thanks to Marvel’s awesome art is one thing, but actually hearing them would create an even richer gameplay experience.
But regardless of a lack of bells and whistles, “Marvel Puzzle Quest: Dark Reign†is an incredibly deep puzzle game that can and will steal hours of your time.
The Good:
5: Classic “Puzzle Quest†Gameplay: If you’ve ever played a game in the “Puzzle Quest†series, “Marvel Puzzle Quest: Dark Reign†plays like the best games in the series, with some signature Marvel flair. After a few hours, it’s easy to see that it may end up being one of the best “Puzzle Quest†games ever.
4: Tough: While the first few sections of the game help you get adjusted, once you start fighting legitimate baddies, you’ll have to have a solid team in place. A few bad moves and it’s game over.
3: All of Your Favorite Characters: The more you play, the more access to your favorite Marvel characters. All armed with their signature abilities, with plenty of room to level up and develop and it’s never been more fun to play a puzzle game.
2: Follows the Classic “Dark Reign†Storyline: If you’ve never read “Dark Reign,†it’s a blast. A battle between HAMMER and SHIELD, Wolverine and Daken, Spider-Man and Venom, Iron Man and Norman Osborn, there’s so much going on and because of that, it’s easy to get into the story.
1: A Ton of Levels: There is simply too much to do in “Marvel Puzzle Quest: Dark Reign.†If you’re a fan of the series, you’ll have enough to keep you busy for at least 100 hours.
The Bad:
No Voice-Overs: The story is awesome, but without any voices, sometimes you’ll want to skip over it to get to the great gameplay.
Final Thoughts:
After a year on the iOS and Android, “Marvel Puzzle Quest: Dark Reign†is now available, bigger and better on the PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox One and Xbox 360. With a ton of content and classic “Puzzle Quest†gameplay, it’s a blast to play.
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