Lumines (2004)

by Christopher November 15, 2019

written by Christopher November 15, 2019 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 2004
Genres: Music, Puzzle
Platforms: iOS, Legacy Mobile Device, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, Xbox 360
Developers: Gameloft, Q Entertainment
Publishers: Bandai, Gameloft, Q Entertainment, WildTangent

Lumines: A Dazzling Symphony of Puzzle and Sound

Released in 2004 for the PlayStation Portable, Lumines is a block-dropping puzzle game that quickly gained a cult following for its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and infectious soundtrack. Developed by Q Entertainment and published by Ubisoft, Lumines has been praised for its unique blend of puzzle mechanics and rhythm-based gameplay, creating an experience that is both challenging and exhilarating.

Gameplay: A Twist on the Classic

At its core, Lumines is a block-dropping puzzle game similar to Tetris or Columns. Players must rotate and drop blocks into a playing field, creating horizontal or vertical lines of matching colors to clear them from the screen. However, Lumines introduces a unique twist to this classic formula: the “timeline.”

The timeline is a horizontal bar that sweeps across the playing field from left to right. When the timeline reaches a block, it will either clear it (if it is part of a matching line) or cause it to split into smaller blocks. This adds a layer of strategy to the gameplay, as players must carefully time their drops to maximize the number of blocks they can clear with each timeline sweep.

Visuals: A feast for the Eyes

One of the most striking things about Lumines is its visuals. The game’s vibrant colors and sleek, minimalist design create a visually stunning experience that is both eye-catching and immersive. The blocks themselves are rendered in a variety of shapes and sizes, adding to the game’s overall visual appeal.

Music: A Sonic Masterpiece

Music plays a central role in Lumines. The game features a soundtrack of over 40 electronic tracks, each of which is perfectly synchronized with the gameplay. The music’s tempo and rhythm directly affect the speed of the timeline, creating a sense of urgency and excitement that keeps players engaged.

Challenge: A Test of Skill

Lumines offers a variety of challenge modes to keep players entertained for hours on end. The main campaign mode features over 100 levels, each with its own unique layout and challenges. In addition, there are several other modes, such as Time Attack, Puzzle, and Versus, that offer different ways to test players’ skills.

Legacy: A Lasting Impact

Lumines has been praised by critics and players alike for its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and infectious soundtrack. It has been hailed as one of the best puzzle games ever made, and its influence can be seen in many other games that have come after it.

In 2006, Lumines was ported to the Nintendo DS, and in 2018, it was released on the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch as part of the Lumines Remastered collection. The remastered collection includes both the original Lumines game and its sequel, Lumines II.

Conclusion

Lumines is a truly unique and unforgettable puzzle game that continues to captivate players to this day. Its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and infectious soundtrack make it a must-play for fans of puzzle games, rhythm games, and anyone who appreciates a truly exceptional gaming experience.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

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Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.