Pearls of Atlantis
- February 15, 2024
- Alder Games
Get on Steam"Pearls of Atlantis" is a bubble shooter game with over 1,000 puzzles set underwater. Players must navigate obstacles and use power-ups to match pearls and collect magic charms to restore Atlantis. The game features a mermaid companion, Kaia, who guides players through the Cove of Memories as they uncover secrets of the underwater city.
PC
Web Browser
Windows
Reviews
- The game features charming visuals and a pleasant soundtrack that enhance the overall experience.
- Gameplay is addictive and offers a fun match-3 experience with interesting mechanics and challenges.
- Players can enjoy the game without spending money, as it allows for progression through skillful play.
- The game is heavily monetized, with many paywalls and a pay-to-win structure that frustrates players.
- The narrative is weak and lacks depth, making the story feel non-existent compared to the original.
- Repetitive gameplay and artificial scarcity mechanics lead to a grind that detracts from the enjoyment.
- story12 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The story in *Pearls of Atlantis* is generally considered thin and simplistic, serving primarily as a backdrop to the gameplay rather than a compelling narrative. While some players find the storyline charming and appreciate its cute aesthetic, others criticize it for being repetitive and skippable, with many levels feeling identical as the game progresses. Overall, the story adds a lighthearted touch to the match-3 experience, but it is not the main draw for most players.
“When Pearls of Atlantis first released, it offered a satisfying match-3 experience with a charming story.”
“Each level we complete allows us to collect a star; these stars are used to help Kaia progress through the story.”
“I appreciate the storyline being cute and not too over the top, and the microtransactions are not at all intrusive - more so for cosmetics.”
“The story is so thin you can barely see it, and the once-magical Atlantis now serves only as a lifeless backdrop to mind-numbing gameplay.”
“Story is dumb and would be completely skippable except that it gives you rewards that allow you to continue playing.”
“The story was kinda stupid but most of them are so I was overlooking it.”
- gameplay12 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 42 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the game has received mixed reviews, with some players appreciating its balance and challenge, particularly in puzzle mechanics and level design, while others criticize it for being repetitive, overly reliant on monetization, and featuring frustrating waiting mechanics. Although the narrative provides some context for the gameplay, many feel it is too thin to enhance the experience significantly. Overall, while some find it enjoyable and calming, others are deterred by its grindy nature and pay-to-win elements.
“The gameplay was balanced, and the narrative, while basic, gave players a reason to care about rebuilding Atlantis.”
“I've played numerous games of this particular genre (including the original Bejeweled and Bubble Bobble games) and Pearls of Atlantis: The Cove is on par with these ... it's well paced, challenging enough once you're past the learning levels, the gameplay is excellent, and, as a crown on King Triton's statue, the little story added to it is charming ... definitely recommending this game for a calming moment now and then!”
“The level design is well thought out and allows you to experiment with the mechanics, chaining combos with gravity and causing explosive chain reactions.”
“The story is so thin you can barely see it, and the once-magical Atlantis now serves only as a lifeless backdrop to mind-numbing gameplay.”
“Gameplay: repetitive and pay-to-win.”
“The gameplay’s a broken grinder.”
- monetization11 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 27 % neutral mentions
- 45 % negative mentions
The monetization in the game has been widely criticized as excessive and exploitative, with many reviewers labeling it a "greedy cash grab" that detracts from the original experience. While some players find the microtransactions manageable, particularly for cosmetic items, the overall sentiment leans towards frustration with manipulative practices and a gameplay structure designed to encourage spending.
“It's a fun puzzle spam game; it's got microtransactions and a 'stamina' system akin to modern mobile games.”
“I appreciate the storyline being cute and not too over the top, and the microtransactions are not at all intrusive - more so for cosmetics.”
“- A lot of monetization attempts around/outside of gameplay too.”
“Fast forward to the cove, which feels like a greedy cash grab that abandons everything the original stood for.”
“The game is bloated with monetization, and the soul of the original is long gone.”
“If it weren't for the dark-pattern, manipulative monetization, it would be decent.”
- graphics5 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- -20 % neutral mentions
- 60 % negative mentions
The graphics are praised for their charming art style and beautiful underwater visuals, with good artwork throughout each level. While the visuals and music stand out as highlights, they are not enough to elevate the overall experience of the game.
“The art style is charming, and the underwater world is beautiful.”
“Good artwork throughout each level.”
“The story and animations are also cute; my girlfriend especially likes the mermaid aesthetic.”
“Visuals and music: the only bright spots.”
“The art style is charming, but the overall graphics feel outdated.”
“The animations are cute, but they lack fluidity and polish.”
- music4 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The music in the game is atmospheric and enhances the overall experience, providing a pleasant backdrop during gameplay. However, while it is a highlight, it cannot compensate for other shortcomings in the game.
“The music is pleasant to listen to while we are busy collecting pearls.”
“Visuals and music: the only bright spots.”
“The music is atmospheric and genuinely adds to the experience.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is enhanced by its atmospheric music, which significantly contributes to the overall experience.
“The music is atmospheric and genuinely adds to the experience.”
“The game's environment is richly detailed, immersing you in its world.”
“The lighting and sound design create a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere.”
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Players indicate that grinding is a significant aspect of the game, often required for progress unless they opt to make in-game purchases. This suggests a reliance on repetitive tasks to advance, particularly for those who choose not to spend money.
“If you’re not paying, you’re grinding.”
“The grinding feels endless and tedious, making it hard to enjoy the game.”
“I spent hours grinding for resources, only to realize it was all for nothing.”
- humor1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is well-received, with players finding moments that elicit genuine laughter, such as playful interactions and witty remarks.
“Eric: [laughing] 'Nice one, Triton!'”
- character development1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviewers appreciate the thoughtful attention to character designs and seascapes, highlighting that this detail enhances the overall character development in the game.
“The character development is incredibly rich, allowing players to form deep connections with each character.”
“I love how the characters evolve throughout the story, making their journeys feel authentic and engaging.”
“The attention to detail in character backstories adds layers to their personalities, making every interaction meaningful.”
