Sparkle 2

In conclusion, Sparkle 2 is a lot like Sparkle Unleashed, which in turn was a lot like PopCap's Zuma. If you are a fan of this genre of game, then Sparkle 2 has a lot going for it, but it unlikely to convert anyone else to its cause. We found it weirdly addictive, with the "just one more level" effect being very strong, and the usually pretty graphics and reactive music all helping to hook us in. At its heart, its another colour matcher, but this is a little different to the run of the mill mobile ports that we see, and with the new modes to unlock as you play, it could well keep you hooked a little longer than normal.

74%Game Brain Score

music, gameplay

story

92% User Score Based on 52 reviews

Critic Score 72%Based on 4 reviews

Platforms

Buy Nowfrom $7.99

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About

Sparkle 2 is an action-puzzle game that offers a premium experience with state-of-the-art special effects. With four game modes, over 90 levels, and more than 200 Slinger enhancements, players can delve into an engaging mystery through a story narrated with professional voiceovers. Explore exciting locations, discover enchanted keys, and unlock secrets in this long-awaited sequel to the award-winning Sparkle.

Genres & Tags

Play Modes

Single-Player Play through the game's story or campaign solo

92%

Audience ScoreBased on 56 reviews

music9 positive mentions

Sparkle 2 features vibrant graphics and a catchy soundtrack that enhance the overall gaming experience.
The game offers a variety of modes and power-ups, allowing for personalized gameplay and extended replayability.
It provides a fun and addictive puzzle experience, especially for fans of the marble shooter genre.

The difficulty spikes significantly in higher modes, which can lead to frustration for players not prepared for the challenge.
The game lacks a compelling story and can feel repetitive after extended play, especially when replaying the same levels for achievements.
Some players have reported bugs related to achievements and unexpected orb color changes during gameplay.

story
17 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
18%
65%
18%
The story in this game is generally considered bland and less engaging compared to similar titles like Zuma and Tumblebugs, with players feeling burnt out after repetitive quest mode gameplay. While the quest involves a journey to collect keys across various levels, the narrative lacks depth and could benefit from additional side storylines for higher difficulty modes. However, the calming and ominous narration adds a pleasant touch, and some players appreciate the magical feel and light storyline that accompanies the gameplay.
- “A plus side here is the narrator's voice, which is calming yet ominous as you complete the quest to search for keys to open the portal at the end.”
- “This game has a magical feel to it, and a story to go as well.”
- “There is a main story with a path that you follow, but there are also other game modes that you unlock along the way.”
- “In terms of the story, it isn't as exciting compared to Zuma and Tumblebugs, which have more lore behind the animal you play as the slinger.”
- “The story is quite bland for my taste. I might have overstayed my welcome with playing this game three times continuously. Even after you unlock all of the enchantments for the slinger, you still have to play the same route in the other difficulties, which really bugged me.”
- “It would have been better if the sections were closed off and a side storyline could be provided for the hard and nightmare difficulty to avoid burning the player out.”
music
15 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
60%
20%
20%
The music in the game is generally praised for being upbeat, catchy, and nostalgic, enhancing the overall gameplay experience. While many players find it pleasant and non-repetitive, some express a desire for a greater variety of tracks. Overall, the soundtrack contributes positively to the game's addictive nature and aesthetic appeal.
- “Music is also good which hypes me up to play and gives me nostalgia while I battle with the orbs.”
- “And with a soundtrack that's as upbeat and catchy as the game itself, you'll be humming along as you play.”
- “The music is pleasant to the ear, and the game is very addicting.”
- “I wish it had more of a music variety though, it gets a bit repetitive.”
- “Can't really comment on the music since I had it off for most of my hours playing.”
- “Music: balls”
gameplay
10 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
40%
30%
30%
The gameplay of Sparkle 2 is characterized by its vibrant graphics and addictive mechanics, reminiscent of classic titles like Zuma, with added power-ups and a variety of mini-games that enhance the experience. While it adheres closely to established match-three puzzle formulas, it offers a substantial campaign and multiple modes that keep players engaged. Overall, it is praised for its polished execution and enjoyable puzzle loop, making it a solid choice for fans of the genre.
- “From the moment you start playing, you'll be hooked by its bright, vibrant graphics and addictive gameplay.”
- “In addition to the main campaign, Sparkle 2 also offers a variety of mini-games and challenges that add even more variety to the gameplay.”
- “An accomplished and engaging take on the match-three puzzler, Sparkle 2 ably provides the PlayStation 4 with the sort of compelling bite-sized puzzle gameplay that it hasn't really had until now.”
- “This game, along with Sparkle Unleashed, feels like the core gameplay and mechanics have been stolen from Zuma.”
- “Gameplay-wise, it definitely feels like the developers took a lot of care to make this the best-feeling ball shooter game.”
- “It doesn't deviate much from the already established puzzle loop formula; although there are a lot of modes, they all involve the same basic gameplay.”
graphics
8 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
63%
13%
25%
The graphics are consistently praised for their bright and vibrant aesthetic, reminiscent of older casual PC games, which enhances the overall addictive gameplay experience. Players appreciate the combination of appealing visuals and engaging music, contributing to a captivating atmosphere that encourages continued play.
- “From the moment you start playing, you'll be hooked by its bright, vibrant graphics and addictive gameplay.”
- “Its bright, vibrant graphics and addictive gameplay will keep you coming back for more.”
- “Graphics: balls”
- “We found it weirdly addictive, with the 'just one more level' effect being very strong, and the usually pretty graphics and reactive music all helping to hook us in.”