Game: Cylinder: Puzzles Returned
Genre: Action, Puzzle
System: Steam (Windows)
Developer|Publisher: Mighty Rabbit Studios
Controller Support: Yes
Steam Deck: Playable
Price: US $12.99 | UK £10.99 | EU € 12,79
Release Date: September 4th, 2024
A review code was provided, thanks to Big Games Machine.
Cylinder: An Indie Gem Returns
Originally released in 2012 on Xbox Live Arcade, Cylinder emerged during a vibrant period in gaming history that witnessed a boom in indie games. This era, often referred to as the “indie revolution,” saw a surge of creative titles that pushed the boundaries of traditional gaming. Fast forward several years and Cylinder has returned this time with a release on Steam that includes gameplay tweaks and a new mode. For puzzle enthusiasts, this re-release offers a chance to dive into a charming and engaging experience that combines the nostalgia of classic puzzle games with modern enhancements.
Match-4 at Its Core
At its heart, Cylinder is a match-4 arcade-style puzzle game. The gameplay is straightforward, making it accessible to players of all skill levels. The basic mechanics involve using a simple square template that you move around a cylindrical grid. Players can rotate the square’s tiles clockwise or counterclockwise with the press of a button. The goal is to match four tiles of the same colour, which causes them to disappear and score points. This basic formula is easy to grasp, but the game offers depth for those who seek a more challenging experience.
The game’s mechanics allow players to create chain reactions by carefully orienting the tiles. When you match four tiles, the grid shifts, potentially aligning other tiles for additional matches. This can lead to satisfying score combos that reward strategic thinking. If you’re able to match nine tiles in one move, you activate a special block that eliminates all adjacent tiles of the same colour. This adds a strategic layer to the game, encouraging players to think several moves ahead and plan their matches for maximum effect.
Single-Player Experience
Cylinder evokes memories of classic puzzle games like Puzzle Bobble or Bust-a-Move with its variety of modes. The first mode players will likely encounter is Adventure Mode, a single-player experience that focuses on solving puzzles by clearing the grid within a set number of turns. This mode is more relaxed and requires careful observation and planning. Adventure Mode also serves as a tutorial, guiding players through the core mechanics of the game. It’s an excellent starting point for newcomers, offering a gentle introduction to the game’s intricacies.
Once you’ve completed the initial ten puzzles in Adventure Mode, the game introduces an Endless Mode and a versus stage, which we’ll explore next. However, if Adventure Mode isn’t your cup of tea, the game provides additional resources in the options menu to help you master the gameplay at your own pace.
Diving into Endless Mode and Multiplayer
Endless Mode is where I found myself spending most of my time during my review. In this mode, the cylinder is filled with randomized tiles, and the goal is to rack up as high a score as possible. As the game progresses, a new row of tiles is added to the bottom of the cylinder, gradually raising the grid. If the grid reaches the top, it’s game over. Endless Mode is all about instant gratification, offering a fast-paced, high-energy experience that’s perfect for those nights when you just want to switch your brain off and unwind.
In addition to Endless Mode, Cylinder features a Practice Mode where you can hone your skills in a stress-free environment. This mode allows players to experiment with different strategies and improve their gameplay without the pressure of a ticking clock or rising grid.
One of the most significant draws of Cylinder is its multiplayer component. The game supports both local and online multiplayer for up to four players. If you don’t have enough friends to fill all the slots, or if you prefer to play solo, you can fill the remaining spots with AI players whose difficulty levels can be adjusted. In multiplayer mode, players compete to match tiles and send “distractor” blocks to their opponents’ grids. The goal is to overwhelm your opponents by filling their cylinder towers and knocking them out of the game. With its easy-to-learn gameplay, Cylinder is an excellent choice for game nights, offering a fun and competitive experience for players of all ages.
Customization and Creativity
For players with a creative streak, Cylinder offers a level editor where you can design your own puzzles and share them online. The customisation tools are intuitive, allowing you to easily place tiles of different colours and styles to create challenging brain teasers. While this mode may not appeal to everyone, it’s a nice addition for those who enjoy crafting their own levels or challenging others with custom puzzles.
Graphics and Unlockables
Visually, Cylinder is pleasing but not groundbreaking. The cylindrical tower is rendered in bright, colourful tiles, with varying backgrounds that change as you progress through the game. While the graphics are serviceable, they aren’t likely to be the main draw for most players. However, as you play through the different modes, you’ll unlock additional content, such as new characters, backgrounds, and other features that add variety to the experience.
Conclusion: A Worthwhile Puzzle Night In
Cylinder: Puzzles Returned is a solid puzzle game that offers a range of modes to suit different types of players. Whether you prefer the slower, more thoughtful pace of Adventure Mode, the fast-paced action of Endless Mode, or the competitive thrill of multiplayer, there’s something here for everyone. While Cylinder doesn’t necessarily reinvent the wheel, it offers a well-rounded and enjoyable experience that puzzle fans will appreciate. It may not stick with you as much as other iconic puzzle games, but it’s still a worthy addition to any puzzle lover’s library and a great option for your next game night.
Final Verdict: I Like It
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