XXZ: XXL
- September 29, 2017
- L. Stotch
Get on Steam"XXZ: XXL" is a physics-based puzzle platformer where players manipulate and slide blocks to guide a cube-like character towards the goal in each level. The game features over 100 levels with increasing difficulty and complexity, and also includes a level editor for creating and sharing custom levels. Players must use creative problem-solving skills to overcome obstacles and find the best path to the end.
Reviews
- The game features engaging match-three gameplay with unique mechanics that require strategic thinking.
- The artwork and character design are appealing, adding a fun and light-hearted atmosphere to the game.
- It offers a good balance of challenge and fun, making it addictive and enjoyable for fans of the genre.
- The lack of a clear tutorial and confusing instructions can make it difficult for players to understand the mechanics.
- Later levels can become frustratingly reliant on luck, which may detract from the overall experience.
- Some players find the game repetitive and lacking in content, with limited replay value.
- gameplay25 mentions
- 48 % positive mentions
- 40 % neutral mentions
- 12 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by innovative mechanics that blend turn-based strategy with match-three elements, creating tense and engaging matches. Players control three survivors activated by specific stone colors, with only the rightmost survivor able to attack, adding a layer of strategy. While some mechanics may feel restrictive, the overall experience is praised for its depth, addictive nature, and the inclusion of challenging DLCs that enhance gameplay variety.
“Cool little mechanics work well together to create tense matches: you have three survivors at your disposal, each one activated by a specific stone color on the board, but the kicker is that only the survivor in front of the group (the rightmost position) attacks when activated by a match.”
“I don't normally go in for games like this, but the gameplay strategy is surprisingly interesting as well as addictive.”
“The match 3+ is an interesting game mechanic with a twist, that color only attacks if they're in position to do so.”
“Some of the mechanics are cheap in that you can't attack until certain requirements are met.”
“Otherwise, the game mechanics are the same.”
“-somewhat of an arbitrary game mechanic system is in place”
- graphics10 mentions
- 80 % positive mentions
- -10 % neutral mentions
- 30 % negative mentions
The graphics in the game are widely praised for their extraordinary quality and unique artwork, which enhances the overall atmosphere and serves as a strong motivator for players. However, some reviewers noted a lack of variety in the zombie designs and other elements, leading to a sense of repetition despite the impressive visuals.
“A cool game, not too easy, the graphics are extraordinary, sometimes a completely different zombie game.”
“Beautiful artwork by the way.”
“The graphics are a great reward and motivator.”
“Other than the reward artwork, there is a ton of repetition in the graphics, including sound effects, strategy elements, and zombie artwork.”
“The graphics lack variety, with many elements feeling recycled and uninspired.”
“The overall visual presentation is disappointing, as it fails to deliver unique and engaging designs.”
- story8 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 38 % negative mentions
The game's story is generally viewed as lacking, with many players noting that it prioritizes gameplay over narrative depth. While some express a desire for a more developed storyline, including animated cutscenes and background lore, others appreciate the art and mechanics despite the absence of a compelling plot. Overall, the consensus is that the game is enjoyable but would benefit from a more engaging story.
“Great story, even better art.”
“Also, speaking of a story mode, it could show how the infection began, and the first few people who had fallen to it.”
“It's not for everyone, but that doesn't mean it's a bad game - I really could have used some story.”
“There's no storyline.”
“I really could have used some story.”
“It could show how the infection began, and the first few people who had fallen to it.”
- grinding2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players express frustration with the grinding aspect due to the inability to replay previous levels, limiting their ability to farm resources effectively. The automatic rotation of enemies during combat further complicates strategy development, as players can only engage one opponent at a time while others remain inactive. This design choice impacts both early and late-game strategies, making grinding feel less rewarding.
“A guide talks about grinding, but you can't replay previous levels (not at my point anyway), so I don't know what they're on about. They mention 'killing other zombies if one has a weapon,' but they rotate automatically, so you only ever fight one while the others stand in the background, unable to damage or be damaged.”
“The special effects (concussion, entanglement, and so on) force you to develop a strategy both in the initial levels (finishing or farming because every campaign starts from level 1) and in the final levels where you have a team of opponents and need to recover or force a swap.”
- replayability2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
Users have mixed opinions on replayability; while some find value in additional content and recommend purchasing the season pass for better deals, others feel the game lacks replay value entirely.
“Both add a bit of replay value and are worth trying; buy the season pass to get a better deal.”
“No replay value for me.”
- humor1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is widely appreciated, with many users finding it both enjoyable and genuinely funny.
“It's a lot of fun and really quite funny.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's zombie theme significantly enhances its atmosphere, contributing to engaging visuals that immerse players in a chilling environment.
“The zombie theme adds a captivating atmosphere and stunning visuals.”
“The eerie sound design and haunting visuals create an immersive atmosphere.”
“The game's atmospheric lighting and detailed environments draw you into its world.”
