Solitaire 2.0

Solitaire is the ultimate relaxation game. It's also the number one killer of productivity; trust me, I have experience. It's hard to say if it's something in the game that draws people in or if it's just the fact that it's on everyone's computer, but people love the game. They can't get enough of it! If you're one of those people, you are going to absolutely love Jewel Quest III: Solitaire.

Some people may argue that purchasing a solitaire game is pointless when you already have the basic product on your computer. That argument is weak because this product adds a few key ingredients to the formula to drastically shape the way it plays. How does it do this? The same way every computer game improves on pre-existing formulas: by adding power-ups.

I'm getting ahead of myself. Let me tell you about the story.

Introducing Ratu Edward Kadanu

Ratu Edward Kadanu was a famous explorer who hid away a very valuable treasure before he died. In Jewel Quest III, this is what you're after. With Ratu's journal as your guide, you'll travel around the world, completing his puzzles to prove your worth. I really enjoyed how the game play actually fit into the story. Plenty of games have neat stories, but they don't explain why you're matching blocks, shooting marbles, or whatever else you may be doing. Here, however, it makes perfect sense. These games of cards and matching were deliberately set up by the late Katu to ensure that the treasure wasn't found by someone who wasn't worthy of it. They aren't just random; they're tests of skill.

Playing Cards

Those who've played solitaire can just zip right past the tutorial; the formula here is similar enough that you'll recognize how to play. The change comes in the power-ups. The objective is the same as always: move all of the cards - in order - to the four spots on the top of the screen. Whenever you move a card up, your power-up meter gains a point. Once the meter fills up at three points, you'll get a bonus weapon to use in play.

In the first level, all of the bonuses are wild cards. These cards are invaluable. This game is notoriously difficult to finish; oftentimes you'll get stuck in a rut that you can't get out of. With wild pieces, although it can still happen, it happens much less often. Later in the game you'll acquire different kinds of power-ups, like X-ray powers that can see through upside-down cards.

Match 3

It wouldn't be a Jewel Quest game without some match-3 action. After you complete each card game, you'll have to complete a match-3 puzzle. These are completely traditional; match three or more stones to turn the underlying tiles gold. Turn all of the tiles gold in order to complete the stage.

The New Time Waster

Jewel Quest III: Solitaire combines the two best elements: it's both new and familiar. Anyone can jump into this game and immediately start having fun. Those of you who spend a little too much time goofing off on your computer; this isn't going to help. It's just a better way to do it!