Review

This game is definitely something to behold. Its addictive gameplay can make even the burliest of men succumb to the cute, multicolored insects that infest its core gameplay. They may cringe each time their bug flaps its adorable little wings at the completion of the level, but deep down they will share the very joy that the bug is experiencing. Try as they may to retain their masculinity in the faces of these cuddly critters, they will fall victim sooner, rather than later. Thus is the power of Tumblebugs.

Bug Treachery

The story behind this product isn't the deepest, but it's more than enough. The evil black bugs and their king are capturing all of the wonderful, colorful tumblebugs and forcing them to be slaves, in an effort to expand their evil empire all across the backyards of the world! You come to rescue in the role of tumble, squashing black bugs wherever you find them! As the game progress, more plot points unfold, and you're taken to new backyards. Like I said, it's nothing deep, but I doubt anyone turns to a puzzle game for a good story.

Buggin' Out

The gameplay mechanics of this product operate similarly to those of Zuma. You control a large bug that sits in the middle of ring of rotating insect pieces, shooting same-colored pieces in order to make matches of 3 or more. Your bug can shoot one of three colored balls, and you can cycle through them by right clicking. I must add, however, that this is more appropriate for experienced players, as beginners will likely just waste time. When you make matches of three or more, those matches then disappear, shortening the line. The line of pieces is headed towards a destination, where, if they make it there, you lose a life and must restart. Once the line has been completely depleted, you gain bonus points equal to the distance left between the last piece and the end destination.

Bug Power

There are several powerups to be had throughout. Some cause the line to freeze, giving you a window of opportunity to do some serious damage. Some cause the line to move backwards temporarily, giving you more time to complete the level. One of my personal favorites allows you to shoot upwards and get hard to reach pieces in the back of the line. This is only a small sampling of the powerups available, as I wouldn't want to spoil everything. The powerups really add a special dynamic to an already addicting game.

A Bug's Life

The main mode is separated into rounds; 12 rounds to be exact. Each round contains four sub-rounds, which can consist of several different types of rounds, such as standard rounds; frenzy rounds, where the pieces all move significantly faster; bonus rounds, where you have to remove a small number of pieces in an incredibly short amount of time; as well as other kinds of rounds. This variation in gameplay keeps it fresh and exciting, instead of running the risk of it turning into a chore to complete. From beginning to end, Tumblebugs will have you hooked.