Klocki review - Top of the line

Much like its predecessor HOOK, Klocki begins simply, a toe-dip into its pool of mechanics. Two tiles to move, two line segments to connect. From that foundation blossoms a clever puzzler that explores its core mechanic in myriad ways. If HOOK was an introduction to Rainbow Train’s style of relaxing puzzlers, then Klocki is a refinement, offering both a calm pace and reasonably satisfying challenge.

Line up

Klocki is about connecting lines (well, mostly). How you’re connecting those lines, and the rules governing how lines can connect, change throughout the game, but solving a puzzle is as easy as moving tiles into the correct space on the level grids so that lines connect cleanly. The early puzzles task you with simply swapping tiles marked with single straight lines, but Klocki soon evolves beyond that.

Levels expand from single planes to 3D shapes. Lines curve and branch and overlap, forcing you to consider corners and intersections. Tiles that could be swapped with ease must be moved within limited space, or slid into position instead of swapped, among other rules. Tactile switches let you rotate entire sections of a level or perhaps just individual tiles, adding orientation to the mix of factors you need to consider.

All these elements coalesce into a surprisingly varied experience. The desire to see what new mechanic Rainbow Train introduces next is as much a reason to continue as the thrill of devising the solutions to Klocki’s spatial challenges.

No rush

However, while Klocki’s later levels ask you to consider its diverse array of tiles and lines and mechanics simultaneously, the game never becomes too taxing. There are no move pars to limit your actions, or timers to hurry your puzzle solving, or secondary objectives to achieve. Klocki is a puzzler to complete at your own pace, enjoying its vibrant minimalist style and pleasing soundtrack as you study the levels and experiment with different solutions.

Klocki isn’t the longest game, with some levels only lasting a minute or less as you’re taught a new concept, nor is it an exercise in brain-twisting, logic-bending conundrums. But for those looking for a title that's simple enough for anyone to enjoy while still offering a delightful challenge, Klocki is the game for you.