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 strategic elements, requiring players to manage character positions and abilities effectively.
- The artwork and design are appealing, with a unique theme that adds a humorous twist to the gameplay.
- It's an addictive game that offers a fun way to pass the time, with a variety of levels and mechanics that keep players entertained.
- The lack of a clear tutorial and confusing instructions can make it difficult for players to understand the game mechanics, leading to frustration.
- Later levels can feel overly reliant on luck, which may detract from the overall enjoyment and challenge of the game.
- Some players find the game repetitive and lacking in content, with limited replay value and a short overall playtime.
- gameplay25 mentions
- 48 % positive mentions
- 40 % neutral mentions
- 12 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by innovative match-three mechanics that create strategic and tense matches, where only the rightmost survivor attacks based on specific stone colors. Players appreciate the depth and addictive nature of the turn-based RPG elements, despite some initial challenges due to the lack of a tutorial. Overall, the game successfully prioritizes engaging gameplay over narrative, with additional DLCs enhancing the experience further.
“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 mechanic 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, particularly in the zombie theme. However, some players note that while the reward artwork is varied and impressive, there is a significant repetition in the design of the zombies and other elements. Overall, the visuals serve as a strong motivator for players.
“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 feel outdated and lack the detail expected from modern games.”
“Character models are poorly designed and lack any real depth or personality.”
- story8 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 38 % negative mentions
The game's story is generally viewed as lacking, with many reviewers 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 style despite the minimal storytelling. Overall, the consensus is that the game is not recommended for those seeking a compelling narrative.
“Also, speaking of a story mode, it could show how the infection began, and the first few people who had fallen to it.”
“Great story, even better art.”
“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 or improve strategies. The automatic rotation of enemies further complicates combat, as it restricts player engagement to a single opponent at a time, while special effects require strategic planning throughout the game.
“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 significant 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.”
- humor1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is widely appreciated, with users finding it both enjoyable and genuinely funny.
“It's a lot of fun and really quite funny.”
“The humor is sharp and keeps you laughing throughout the game.”
“I love the witty dialogue and hilarious situations that arise!”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % 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.”
“The eerie sound design and haunting visuals create an immersive atmosphere.”
“The game's atmospheric tension keeps you on the edge of your seat.”