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No-thrills puzzle solving for PSP. Developer Killer Game had a very clear purpose with Frantix: to create a no-thrills a game for the PSP with throwbacks to the puzzle games of old. Keeping this philosophy in mind, Frantix doesn’t include any frivolous extras that many puzzle games try to include namely character background and a plot. These things aren’t really missed since we don’t care about them most of the time. Unfortunately, it also leaves out some features like multiplayer which subtract from the overall experience.
The gameplay in Frantix is very simple. You go around six theme worlds, completing a number of puzzles in each one. The puzzles aren’t particularly long; some take only a few seconds though others last through a couple of minutes. Each puzzle loads for a usually insignificant amount of time though sometimes it is a bit annoying when you play for just about as long as you just loaded. Don’t get me wrong though, the five second load times are insignificant most of the time.
In the game’s many levels, you’ll need to collect gems which are scattered throughout the level. The game is quite passive, since your character can’t attack enemies or jump. However, you are given the ability to show bombs and crates in order to kill the enemies that populate the levels. The challenge depends on the particular level you’re in. Some of the puzzles are fairly obvious requiring only swift thumbs to get through it as quickly as possible. Other levels provide a good bit of challenge, requiring that you think everything through before deciding on a plan of action. The latter levels are undoubtedly the most fun since the fun is definitely found in the challenge since the actual gameplay mechanics are basic.
The game’s visuals were definitely not the focus point. There is very little variety since you’ll find the same enemy, crates and blocks in every level. No one expects puzzle games to be state-of-the-start but a bit more variety and creativity would have helped the presentation. The game is 3D but it doesn’t really use it since the gameplay is essentially 2D. As is, the presentation doesn’t really hinder the game since it is pretty easy to get what you need done.
The game’s audio fares just as well. The soundtrack is melodious and ambient, though it is a bit low and you don’t change that in the options. The sound effects are barely existent but don’t really hinder the game. On the other hand, a more dynamic soundtrack could have made the game better. As is, the sound doesn’t bother.
Frantix would have been a solid budget title. The gameplay isn’t bad and it is nice to spend a few minutes with as you relax. The music certainly helps accomplish this, as do the visuals. Unfortunately, for $40, the game is grossly overpriced. Wait for the price to fall and play it, if you like puzzles. -- Jose Liz, PGNx Media
---- Oct 3, 2005
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