XXZ: XXL
- September 29, 2017
- L. Stotch
"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 to the overall enjoyment of the game.
- It's a fun and addictive game that provides a good mix of challenge and entertainment, especially for fans of the genre.
- The lack of clear instructions and tutorials can make it difficult for players to understand the mechanics and progress in the game.
- Later levels can feel overly reliant on luck, which may frustrate players seeking a more skill-based experience.
- Some players find the game repetitive and lacking in content, with limited replay value and a simplistic storyline.
- gameplay50 mentions
- 48 % positive mentions
- 46 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by a unique blend of turn-based mechanics and match-three puzzles, where only the rightmost survivor attacks based on the color matches on the board. Players appreciate the strategic depth and addictive nature of the mechanics, despite some initial challenges due to the lack of a tutorial. Additional DLCs enhance the experience with new missions and variations, making the gameplay both engaging and rewarding.
“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.”
“All of this notwithstanding, there's a surprising amount of depth and strategy to the gameplay.”
“Some of the mechanics are cheap in that you can't attack until certain requirements are met.”
“Somewhat of an arbitrary game mechanic system is in place.”
“Otherwise, the game mechanics are the same.”
- graphics20 mentions
- 80 % positive mentions
- 15 % neutral mentions
- 5 % negative mentions
The graphics in the game are widely praised for their extraordinary quality and unique artwork, which enhances the overall atmosphere, particularly with the zombie theme. However, some players note that while the reward artwork is varied and impressive, there is a significant amount of repetition in the zombie designs and other visual elements. Overall, the graphics serve as a strong motivator for players, despite the noted repetitiveness.
“The graphics are a great reward and motivator.”
“The zombie theme adds some cool atmosphere and visuals.”
“Amazing graphics!”
“Other than the reward artwork, there is a ton of repetition in the graphics, including sound effects, strategy elements, and zombie artwork.”
- story16 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 56 % neutral mentions
- 19 % negative mentions
The game's story is largely criticized for its lack of depth and engagement, with many reviewers noting that it prioritizes gameplay over narrative. While some express a desire for a more developed storyline, including animated cutscenes and background lore, others appreciate the art style despite the absence of a compelling plot. Overall, the consensus is that the game is not suited for those seeking a rich narrative experience.
“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.”
“There's no storyline.”
“It's not for everyone, but that doesn't mean it's a bad game - I really could have used some story.”
“It could show how the infection began, and the first few people who had fallen to it.”
- grinding4 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players express frustration with the grinding aspect of the game, noting the inability to replay previous levels, which limits 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. Overall, the grinding experience feels restrictive and poorly designed, hindering player progression and enjoyment.
“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 suggest to 'kill 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.”
- replayability4 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The game's replayability is mixed, with some players finding value in additional content and recommending the season pass for better deals, while others feel there is little to no replay value.
“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.”
“No replay value for me.”
- humor2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is consistently praised, with users finding it both enjoyable and genuinely funny.
“It's a lot of fun and really quite funny.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The zombie theme significantly enhances the game's atmosphere, contributing to its engaging visuals and overall immersive experience.
“The zombie theme adds a captivating atmosphere and stunning visuals.”