Hexsider

One of the most unique puzzle games ever made, Hexsider is a fun and very challenging mix of roboting programming and chess.

The game, in the designer's own words: ".. is an adventure/puzzle game where the player manages robots in a large labyrinth. In the XXIst century, a new bread of robots called Hexsiders carries out man’s most perilous operations. However, a new danger menaces mankind today. At the defence headquarter, a band of terrorist robots have destroyed the computer that maintains the state of security. The protection shields remain engaged and the internal Hexsiders are out of orders. The player must lead 6 radio-commanded Hexsiders to the heart of the treacherous labyrinth and replace the defective module."

Sounds easy enough, right? Wrong. Although the game has a demo mode and on-line help, it is not an easy game to grasp. There are many modules you can use, each with different options. Not to mention different kinds of doors, mines, electromagnets, and other room features you need to interact with. On top of all that, you need to think in three dimensions-- robots with more modules cannot go through short doors, for example. And of course, the whole map is a giant maze, and you can easily get lost.

One of the game's best features is that you can view the action in isometric 3D mode at any time, although you cannot move in this mode. The 3D view is indispensable, and you will refer to it many times during the game. In the end, Hexsider's intense complexity makes the game more frustrating than fun, especially after you've gone about half the map. The more you play it, the more you realize why the "easy to learn, hard to master" mantra of chess could make Hexsider a lot more fun.

As it stands, the game will be enjoyable only to puzzle experts who can handle complicated rules, or anyone who enjoys esoteric puzzle games. Recommended, with some reservations.

Review By HOTUD