"Suika Game Planet": A Fresh Spin on Fruit-Merging Puzzles

Explore the cosmic evolution of a beloved puzzle phenomenon as "Suika Game Planet" takes players on an intergalactic journey, redefining fruit-merging with innovative physics and a captivating spherical arena.

Embark on a Galactic Fruit Fusion: The Next Dimension of Puzzle Fun!

The "Suika Game" Legacy Continues: A New Cosmic Challenge

The highly popular fruit-combining puzzle game, which captivated enthusiasts throughout 2023, has triumphantly returned with its official follow-up, "Suika Game Planet." This new iteration introduces a fresh physics engine, fundamentally altering the gameplay experience. While the core objective remains to merge smaller fruits into larger ones, ideally culminating in a watermelon, the familiar fruit basket setting has been replaced by an interstellar exploration of gravitational dynamics on a circular stage.

Mastering Interstellar Gravity: A 360-Degree Puzzle Experience

In this latest installment, players gain the ability to launch fruits from any direction, gradually filling a planet that offers full 360-degree combination possibilities. This marks a significant departure from its predecessor, and despite appearing to be a minor adjustment, it entirely reshapes the strategic approach. Players who previously believed they had perfected the art of fruit placement in the original game will discover themselves navigating an entirely new challenge – or, rather, a new 'melon game,' one might say.

Navigating the Galactic Frontier: New Physics and Perils

Gone are the days of merely worrying about fruits overflowing the basket; now, any fruit extending beyond the planet's boundary results in a game over. While the edges offer a slight degree of flexibility, excessive protrusion leads to defeat. The physics engine introduces a distinctly different feel: fruits drift and tend to gravitate towards the center, and larger fruit evolutions appear to exert a stronger pull on their counterparts, occasionally leading to unforeseen shifts. Consequently, players are tasked with managing not only combinations but also an ever-changing gravitational field.

Unleashing Super Evolution: A Strategic Boost

Adding another layer of dynamic gameplay is the Super Evolution mechanic, a temporary bonus mode activated once enough combinations have filled a designated meter. This feature encourages players to achieve as many fruit matches as possible within a limited timeframe to earn additional points. This mechanism stands out in a puzzle genre where players are typically accustomed to a more unhurried pace. It serves as an enjoyable way to infuse extra excitement into the game, yet players are not penalized if they prefer to maintain a more methodical approach.

Control Quirks and Multiplayer Musings

While "Suika Game Planet" maintains its predecessor's addictive qualities, the control scheme could benefit from further refinement to align with its evolved puzzle environment. Though I acknowledge some personal learning curve, my initial instinct was to rotate the analog stick to aim around the circular arena. However, the controls are limited to left and right movement. I've frequently found myself inadvertently moving in the opposite direction, as my brain instinctively tries to navigate in a circle – a design choice that feels quite counterintuitive. Furthermore, the game offers limited multiplayer options, with no online play, only local GameShare, and a basic co-op mode. It's worth noting that the original "Suika Game" introduced its multiplayer functions as a separate paid expansion, suggesting a similar path might be taken for "Planet."

A Worthwhile Investment for Puzzle Enthusiasts

Priced at $3.75 for the Nintendo Switch 2 version and $2.99 for the original Switch, "Suika Game Planet" represents an excellent value. For those who enjoyed the first game and are eager to explore a new style of fruit combination, it's an absolute must-have. Even puzzle aficionados who missed the initial "Suika Game" craze will find "Suika Game Planet" to be a delightful and utterly captivating follow-up, more than justifying its modest price tag.