A new puzzler, simpler than some, but more enjoyable than many
Price: $0.99 / £0.79
Version: 1.01
Size: 51.4 MB
It’s starts so simply… can you figure out what you need to do?
Beginning without a menu or settings screen, brand-new puzzler “klocki” clearly wants to show, not tell. Met by two squares, and two lines, each facing away from each other, it quickly becomes clear what “klocki” wants you to do. Tap on one square, then tap on the other, enabling the two to switch, connect, and light up. Really, “klocki” is all about connections – whether these are lines, of varying colors, some dotted, or employing a checkers-style jumping of dots, the game guides you in its constant unveiling of new rules.
The puzzles quickly expand but with a little trial and error it doesn’t take long to solve them
In the first handful of levels it may feel like the game is too simple, that moving the squares around to create the connections will eventually provide you with your goal: simple trial and error. And while the early levels may be just that, as the boards and puzzles get bigger and more game mechanics get introduced, the more challenging and less simplistic it gets. But that’s not saying the game is overtly hard – this might be the best example we’ve seen of a game guiding its users steadily through its levels – its introduction of new skills is fluid and relaxed.
Eventually, the puzzles expand into larger 3D objects
The sound supports this approach, relaxing in nature, and as you progress it truly feels like the connections you’re making aren’t just with the lines, but the game is also concerned with connecting with its players. Even on some of the easier puzzles, the satisfaction of hearing that deep, bass-heavy gong as all your squares line up is just as satisfying whether you’d been trying to complete the puzzle for thirty minutes, or thirty seconds.
The puzzle mechanics are introduced subtly and before you know it you’re powering through puzzles like this
In terms of visuals, the game transcends 2D planes towards 3D objects, cubes, and mismatched shapes as the levels progress in difficulty. The colors are vibrant, but not garish. It’s all part of this relaxing nature that means you can take your time. Despite this, the game isn’t particularly long – but it’s one of many games hitting the App Store now that feels fully-formed, despite its understated longevity. However, the price-tag of just $1 makes this entirely satisfactory. Anyone can enjoy “klocki” and that’s why it’s a great addition to the App Store.