Summary
- Release Year: 2007
- Genres: Puzzle
- Platforms: Nintendo DS
- Developers: Jupiter Corporation
- Publishers: Nintendo
Picross DS: A Puzzle Masterpiece
Released in 2007 for the Nintendo DS, Picross DS is a puzzle game that combines logic and creativity in a unique and engaging way. Players use simple hints to fill in squares and reveal hidden pictures, earning rewards for solving puzzles quickly and accurately.
Gameplay
Picross DS puzzles consist of grids filled with empty squares. Each row and column has a sequence of numbers written in the margins, indicating how many squares in that row or column need to be filled in. Players must deduce where each filled square is based on the numbers provided.
For example, a row with the numbers “3 2” means that there are three filled squares in that row, followed by two empty squares. Players can use this information to fill in the three squares, leaving two empty squares at the end of the row.
Incorrect guesses earn the player a time penalty. However, players can also use hints to help them solve puzzles. Hints reveal a single filled square in the grid, which can be helpful for getting started or for solving particularly difficult puzzles.
Puzzles
Picross DS features a wide range of puzzles, from simple 5×5 squares to much more challenging 15×15 squares—and larger. The puzzles are divided into different difficulty levels, so there’s something for everyone, from beginners to experienced puzzle enthusiasts.
In addition to the standard puzzles, Picross DS also includes a number of special puzzles, such as puzzles with hidden shapes and puzzles that require players to solve multiple grids at the same time. These special puzzles add an extra layer of challenge and variety to the game.
Creation and Sharing
One of the unique features of Picross DS is the ability to create and share your own puzzles with other players. This feature adds a lot of replayability to the game, as players can always find new and challenging puzzles to solve.
To create a puzzle, players simply need to fill in a grid with squares and then enter the corresponding numbers in the margins. Players can then share their puzzles with other players via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection or by using a local wireless connection.
Rewards
Players earn rewards for solving puzzles quickly and accurately. The rewards are in the form of picture rewards, which are animated illustrations of the thing represented in the puzzle. For example, solving a puzzle of a cat will earn the player a picture reward of a cat.
Picture rewards can be viewed in the game’s gallery, and players can also use them to create their own custom puzzles.
Critical Reception
Picross DS was met with critical acclaim upon its release. IGN praised the game’s “addictive gameplay” and “charming presentation,” while GameSpot called it “one of the best puzzle games on the Nintendo DS.” The game has also been a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.
Legacy
Picross DS is considered to be one of the best puzzle games ever made. It has spawned several sequels and spin-offs, including Picross 3D and Mario Picross. The game has also been ported to other platforms, such as the Wii U and Nintendo Switch.
Conclusion
Picross DS is a fantastic puzzle game that’s perfect for fans of logic and creativity. With a wide range of puzzles to choose from and the ability to create and share your own, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding puzzle game, then Picross DS is definitely worth checking out.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
