Too busy to devote 12+ hours a day to your gaming habit? Here's a review that's sensitive to your needs: Short and focused on just the things that a busy gamer like you really needs to know.
Reviewed On: PC. Also available on Mac. In development for Nintendo DS, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.
In a Nutshell: Bejeweled 3 continues the match-3 tradition with some new twists joining the classics. This edition features several modes that will send your finger (and eventually, eye) twitching in fast and furious style. Zen mode offers a laid back endless game for players who don't need the stress. Those willing to take on the challenge can try out all of the modes through the quest, which tests players with a little bit of everything in each progressively tougher level.
The major modes available include:
- Poker. A clever take on the card game, with players creating "cards" by matching gems. Each match grants a single card with the corresponding gem. (In other words, a three-diamond match is the same as a four-diamond match – both will give you a single diamond card.) The goal is to create classic poker "hands," such as a Full House, using the gems. It requires more planning than you'd expect, as a single cascade can destroy several potential matches.
- Ice Storm. Ice builds from the bottom up at an aggressive rate, threatening to "freeze" the board and end the game. Matching gems melts the ice, with special gems (explosion, electricity, etc.) turning icy boards into short-lived oceans. It's survival mode for match-3 freaks.
- Lightning. The classic stress-inducer. It's match-3 for people who need a bit more action in their lives.
- Diamond Mine. Players excavate by matching gems in the dirt. The challenge: A certain number of items must be unearthed before time is up. Again, tougher than it sounds, but quite fun.
- Butterflies. Certain gems turn into butterflies on the board. All butterflies move up one row with each move. Match the butterfly with at least two like gems, and it flies free! Just watch out for the spider carousing at the top of the board. If your butterfly reaches the top, it becomes dinner – ending your game.
Learning Curve: The basics are easy: Match 3 or more gems, you know the drill. Mastering certain individual games may take longer – for example, Poker was particularly vexing. The games are fun and engaging, though, and the learning curve is never frustrating.
The Save Game: The game saves on exiting a mode, making it easy to drop in and out for some quick match-3 action.
Family Factor: Entirely family friendly, although certain modes may inspire decidedly R-rated language. (I'm looking at you, Ice Storm!)
Buy, Rent or Skip? A solid buy. PopCap offers a one-hour free trial if you're on the fence.
On a Personal Note: I absolutely love Bejeweled, and have bought numerous versions of the games in the series for different platforms over the years. Bejeweled 3 is by far the best combination of engagement, challenge and fun. It also provides a great way to take a "brain break" from work.
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Busy Gamer Audio Reviews and Features (MP3):
