Puzzle Quest challenges both DS and PSP
Classic 'three-of-a-kind' puzzle action with a twist or two
Sure, you've looked at the screenshots and deemed this to be your average 'match-three' puzzle title (that is, a game revolving around the play mechanic of creating a three-in-a-row line of identical play pieces).
But this, insists the game's maker, would be a mistake.
The game dynamic may indeed be rooted in tradition, but it also incorporates strategy and roleplaying elements to potentially give this effort considerably more depth, as well as a welcome distinguishing feature.
As such, players are encouraged to create, customize and ultimately develop their hero's abilities, magical arsenal and creature companions in order to save the land of Etheria from the evil Lord Bane.
Progress is achieved through turn-based, head-to-head battles within a match-three game world, and your performance can be substantially boosted by using items received from completing quests or bought at the local friendly shop – something to call upon when facing powerful foes should you subsequently find yourself running low on strategic nous (though correctly using, say, magic potions at the appropriate time will still require a certain tactical approach, of course).
Three game modes are promised, ranging from a 150-quest singleplayer option pitting you against the AI, an Instant Action alternative for those wishing to play continuous battles in order to level-up characters without having to embark on quests, and multiplayer wireless encounters.
Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords is currently scheduled to appear on both PSP and DS on March 16th 2007.
