Archipelagos

Definitely among the most unique action/puzzle hybrids ever created, Archipelagos is a fun cross between chess, Populous, and a good measure of its own idiosyncracies.

The goal is to destroy the 2001: Space Odyssey-style Obelisk in order to free the power that cleansed all of human race in Ancient times. The Obelisks are destroyed by absorbing the energy from the stones that provide power for the Obelisks. But since the stones are far apart, you will need to build vast land bridges to them before you can absorb their energy.

Higher levels are not only much more difficult because of bigger maps and more devious placements of stones, but also because you will face many more dangerous enemies. The Necromancer, for example, can turn the piece of land you're standing on into sand, causing you to sink helplessly and lose the game. The more devious Eggs of Blood, once hatched, will spread poisoned blood until it consumes the entire island. If you make it past 25 islands, you will confront the dreaded Lost Souls, who will tirelessly hunt you down to claim you as one of their own. Each level (i.e. island) is timed, so you must plan your move quickly, while deftly avoiding the menacing arboreal trees.

With 9,999 islands to conquer, Archipelagos becomes very repetitive towards the end, and there is not enough gameplay variety to keep things interesting. Worth a try for all puzzle fans for its uniqueness, although it won't keep anyone hooked for long-term play. If you are looking for a unique puzzle game that does manage to be interesting for hundreds of levels on end, play Sentinel Returns instead.

Review By HOTUD