Editor's Review

Puzzles & Survival is a unique mobile game that combines match-3 puzzle mechanics with survival strategy elements, creating an engaging experience that captivates players' attention. Developed by 37Games, this title immerses players in a post-apocalyptic world where they must solve puzzles to gather resources and build their stronghold. In this review, I will discuss the strengths and weaknesses of Puzzles & Survival based on my personal gameplay experience.

One of the most impressive aspects of Puzzles & Survival is its innovative gameplay design. The match-3 puzzles serve as the core mechanic, allowing players to swap and match tiles to gather resources, such as food, wood, and metal. These resources are essential for upgrading buildings, training troops, and defending against zombie attacks. The combination of puzzle-solving and resource management creates a satisfying loop that keeps players engaged. The puzzles themselves are well-designed, offering a range of challenges that increase in difficulty, ensuring that players remain entertained as they progress through the game.

The graphics in Puzzles & Survival are vibrant and appealing, with well-detailed characters and environments. The post-apocalyptic theme is effectively conveyed through the visuals, creating an immersive atmosphere. The animations during puzzle matches are fluid and visually satisfying, enhancing the overall experience. Additionally, the game features a variety of character designs and zombie types, which adds variety and keeps the gameplay fresh. This attention to detail in the graphics helps to draw players into the world and makes the game visually stimulating.

The strategic elements of Puzzles & Survival are another highlight. Players must not only solve puzzles but also make important decisions regarding their base's development and troop management. Building and upgrading facilities, training different types of units, and planning defenses against waves of zombies require strategic thinking and resource allocation. This depth adds a layer of complexity that enhances the gameplay experience, allowing players to feel a sense of ownership over their stronghold. The inclusion of alliances and multiplayer elements further enriches the game, encouraging players to collaborate and strategize with others.

However, Puzzles & Survival is not without its drawbacks. One of the main criticisms is the reliance on in-app purchases. While the game is free to play, players may feel pressured to spend money to acquire resources or speed up progress, especially as they advance to higher levels. This pay-to-win aspect can create frustration for players who prefer to progress through skill and strategy alone. Offering more opportunities to earn premium items through gameplay would improve overall satisfaction and reduce the reliance on monetary purchases.

Another area for improvement is the pacing of the game. Some players may find that the early stages can be slow and grindy, particularly when trying to gather enough resources to build and upgrade facilities. The need to wait for construction times or resource generation can lead to moments of stagnation, where players feel less motivated to continue playing. A more balanced progression system, perhaps with shorter wait times or additional rewards for completing objectives, would help maintain player engagement and interest.

The user interface is mostly intuitive, allowing players to navigate menus and access different features with relative ease. However, some players may find the layout cluttered, especially when managing their resources or troops. A more streamlined interface would help improve the overall user experience, making it easier for players to focus on gameplay without unnecessary distractions. Additionally, occasional bugs or glitches can disrupt gameplay, making regular updates essential to ensure a smooth experience.

In terms of replayability, Puzzles & Survival offers a decent amount of content, with various events and challenges to explore. The daily missions and seasonal events provide ongoing incentives for players to log in regularly and engage with the game. However, once players have completed the main objectives, they may find themselves waiting for new updates or events to keep the gameplay fresh. Regular content updates, including new puzzles, characters, or storylines, would help maintain long-term player interest and engagement.

Overall, Puzzles & Survival is an engaging and visually appealing game that successfully combines match-3 puzzles with survival and strategy elements. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, vibrant graphics, and depth of strategy make it a compelling experience for players looking for something unique. However, the reliance on in-app purchases, pacing issues, and occasional technical glitches can detract from the overall enjoyment. For players seeking a fun and challenging mobile game that blends puzzles with strategic gameplay, Puzzles & Survival is definitely worth checking out.

About Game

Rev up your entertainment gear as we introduce Puzzles & Survival, a stimulating game where you make your way through a post-apocalyptic world in a quest for survival. This dynamic game efficiently combines strategy and match-3 puzzles to create a surreal gaming encounter. This isn't your run-of-the-mill game, it thrusts you right in the middle of thrilling action where your smart decisions can mean life or death. As humanity's last line of defense, you are tasked with unravelling mysteries and erecting an impenetrable sanctuary.

A collaborative manifestation with Kumamon, a merry Christmas celebration awaits you in-game. Hop on this ride to experience a spectacular blend of despair and hope, strategy, and joy. Commanders and survivors assist Kumamon in spreading joy worldwide, with fun Christmas activities such as decking up the Sanctuary's Christmas tree, organizing a hearty feast, and crafting special gifts for survivors.

How to play

• Just a regular match-3 puzzle game? No way! Puzzles & Survival is a fusion of strategy and puzzle-solving. To survive, you'll need to strategically solve puzzles and kill zombies. The emphasis is not solely on battling the undead, but also arming yourself with clever tactics. Not only do you get a thrilling wargame, but also enjoy casual puzzle gameplay ensuring you're entertained at every step. So get ready, the game promises an innovative post-apocalyptic experience where you'll need to use your brain to protect...well, your brain!
• As a leader, you are to guide survivors to the last bastion of humanity. Remember, the future of humanity lies in your hands! A successful leader leverages the power of his followers. Recruit Heroes, build a strong military, and enhance your economical strength. Puzzles & Survival provides a unique opportunity to build a sanctuary, craft radical equipment, smash enemies, and employ the notorious heroes from Noah's Tavern.

Features

• Puzzles and Survival is a Strategy plus Match-3 game. A unique gameplay makes it thrilling.
• Solving puzzles leads to zombie killing, combining the best of tactical wargame and casual puzzle play.
• You can build a sanctuary ripe with cutting-edge equipment to squash your enemies.
• Recruit Heroes from the notorious Noah's tavern to enhance army and economy.
• Remember, in this apocalyptic world, you can't survive alone. Unite with allies and stay vigilant against potential threats.