Zuma's Revenge!
- October 15, 2009
- PopCap Games, Inc.
- 19h median play time
"Zuma's Revenge!" is a single-player Kids Arcade game with a good story and fabulous gameplay. The game features stellar visuals, a humor-filled environment, and a great soundtrack. Players must conquer over 60 levels, battle six mini-game bosses, and explore new gameplay mechanics while defeating evil spirits and tenacious tiki bosses in four game modes. With 70 all-new challenges and the Iron Frog gauntlet, this PopCap ball-blasting challenge offers an engaging and exciting experience.
Reviews
- Highly addictive and fun gameplay that remains enjoyable even after many years.
- The game features a variety of modes, including challenging boss battles and unique level designs.
- Great nostalgic value, bringing back fond memories for many players.
- The difficulty curve can be frustrating, especially in the later levels where players may feel overwhelmed.
- Technical issues such as crashes and resolution problems on modern systems can hinder the experience.
- The checkpoint system can be punishing, forcing players to replay multiple levels after losing all lives.
- gameplay48 mentions
- 48 % positive mentions
- 46 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by its fast-paced, addictive mechanics that blend simplicity with engaging challenges, making it accessible to players of all skill levels. While it retains the core elements of the original game, it introduces new items, levels, and power-ups that enhance the experience. Overall, the combination of intuitive controls, captivating sound design, and colorful graphics creates a nostalgic yet fresh gameplay experience that keeps players coming back for more.
“The gameplay is fast-paced and addictive.”
“The gameplay is simple yet challenging; players have to match colored balls in a line before they reach the end of the track, and each level presents new obstacles and power-ups that keep the game fresh and exciting.”
“Sound design is just as lush as the visuals; gameplay is unique and addictive, and for all intents and purposes, this is another PopCap masterpiece.”
“Despite the fact that she shares my objections regarding balancing of the gameplay, all in all she's more positive towards the whole game.”
“Adding bosses does occasionally break up the gameplay but far too infrequent to keep the pacing at a rewarding level.”
“❎ poor: unresponsive controls, numerous bugs, or frustrating mechanics.”
- graphics46 mentions
- 37 % positive mentions
- 57 % neutral mentions
- 7 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game have received mixed reviews, with some praising the colorful and vibrant art style that enhances the gameplay experience, while others feel it falls short compared to its predecessor. Many users noted improvements in detail and design, particularly with the addition of new levels and a more engaging aesthetic, although some described the visuals as basic or outdated. Overall, the graphics are generally considered solid and enjoyable, contributing positively to the game's appeal.
“Its quite amazing the choice of art style the game depicts and how everything is rigged to the game's music and back vocals.”
“The graphics are simply better, with levels themed around various areas of tiki island.”
“A true gem among the puzzle games, it manages to capture attention with its colourful graphics, cute sound and really well thought out and engaging gameplay.”
“Nice game, but unfortunately it is no longer relevant graphic.”
“❎ poor: extremely outdated or low-quality visuals.”
“❎ fair: basic graphics, but lack detail and polish.”
- story30 mentions
- 23 % positive mentions
- 67 % neutral mentions
- 10 % negative mentions
The story in Zuma is generally considered minimal and straightforward, often described as lacking depth or complexity, with some players noting it as a simple backdrop to the gameplay. While there are elements of adventure and a basic narrative involving a shipwreck and local challenges, many reviews emphasize that the game focuses more on mechanics and puzzle-solving than on storytelling. Overall, players appreciate the cute and engaging story mode, but it is not the primary draw of the game.
“The immersive tribal themes render a mood of an adventurous quest even though it's mainly popping balls.”
“It is here, amidst this vivid tapestry of colors and sounds, that the enigmatic protagonist, Zuma, embarks on his quest for retribution.”
“Overall, I loved the story mode; after finishing it, I did heroic mode.”
“No dramatic story, no level-ups, no loot boxes, no character creation, no crafting systems...”
“❎ fair: basic storyline, lacks depth, or predictable.”
“No real story, though there is a little surprise at the end.”
- music22 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 36 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received mixed reviews; while some players appreciate the well-composed tracks that enhance the gameplay experience, others find the sound effects and music to be repetitive and lacking in variety. The soundtrack is noted for fitting the game's theme and creating an engaging atmosphere, but it can also feel overwhelming or even scary during intense moments. Overall, the music contributes positively to the game, though it may not meet everyone's expectations.
“Its quite amazing the choice of art style the game depicts and how everything is rigged to the game's music and back vocals.”
“Well, when I first picked up Zuma a few years ago, I immediately felt transported back to when I was a child obsessed with the PopCap games of old; their addictive game design, humor, and outstanding music were all here in Zuma.”
“Plus, the colorful graphics are great and the sound and music are really well done.”
“They also got rid of the 'doom' song when you're about to lose, which instantly makes the vibes less tense and fun.”
“However, its music and sound effects are awfully repetitive.”
“Pretty much everything about it works well, but the music leaves little to be desired.”
- humor15 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is widely appreciated, with players enjoying its lighthearted and whimsical elements, particularly the amusing character of the frog that shoots balls. Many reviews highlight the game's charming and sometimes cheesy humor, which enhances the overall experience and keeps players entertained. While some comments touch on the game's quirky mechanics and dialogue, the general consensus is that the humor adds a delightful layer to the gameplay.
“Well, when I first picked up Zuma a few years ago, I immediately felt transported back to when I was a child obsessed with the PopCap games of old. Their addictive game design, humor, and outstanding music were all here in Zuma.”
“The game also features a great sense of humor, which adds to the overall charm of the game.”
“Despite the game's challenges, the aesthetics are along the lines of cheesy humor.”
- replayability10 mentions
- 30 % positive mentions
- 40 % neutral mentions
- 30 % negative mentions
Overall, the game's replayability is viewed positively, with many users noting the presence of multiple game modes and diverse gameplay experiences that enhance replay value. However, some players feel restricted by the challenge mode for level selection, which may limit their enjoyment. Despite this, the game is generally considered to offer a high level of replayability, with various paths and challenges to explore.
“The art style is a bit different from the first game, but there is much more replayability in this game than the first!”
“Endlessly replayable.”
“Four game modes, two of which are really difficult, ensuring replayability!”
“So basically, for replayability, I don't really like the fact that I'm basically locked to challenge mode if I want to play levels I like and chase scores.”
“❎ fair: some replay value, but lacks variety.”
“❎ good: multiple paths or modes, moderately replayable.”
- grinding4 mentions
- 75 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be excessively time-consuming, often requiring 60 to 100 hours to progress, which can lead to tedium after the initial nostalgia fades. While some may enjoy the challenge, many describe it as a frustrating experience dominated by random number generation (RNG). Overall, it seems to appeal primarily to those who appreciate grind-heavy gameplay.
“The grinding aspect of the game can be quite extensive, taking anywhere from 60 to 100 hours to fully experience.”
“While the grind is significant, it offers a rewarding sense of progression that keeps you engaged.”
“The time spent grinding is well worth it, as it allows for deep character development and mastery of the game mechanics.”
“This game was good for a short little nostalgia trip, but once the nostalgia wears off and you play the game for what it is, you're just left with a long tedious ride on the RNG carousel.”
“Good fun but can be tedious at times.”
“If you're a masochist or you just enjoy tedious games, have fun with this one... 3/10.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -150 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is considered basic, with sound and music that do not significantly enhance the experience. While players still find enjoyment in replaying the game, it lacks the immersive qualities and visual appeal found in other titles, such as Luxor.
“Seeing ancient Egypt locations in 3D was so epic back then, contributing to the overall atmosphere of the game.”
“Well, beating this game for the 5th to 10th time is still fun, but we all know Luxor is better in any aspect, including the general atmosphere.”
“The sound design is lackluster and fails to immerse you in the game world.”
“The music is forgettable and does nothing to enhance the overall atmosphere.”
“The overall ambiance feels flat and uninspired, making it hard to get lost in the experience.”
- stability2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Users report that the game is highly stable, functioning smoothly without any noticeable bugs or glitches.
“The game is bug-free, providing a seamless experience.”
“Suffice to say, it works smoothly with seemingly no glitches.”
- emotional2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players report that the game evokes strong emotions, with some feeling a sense of specialness upon purchasing it, while others describe intense and stressful moments that led to tears.
“When I bought this with the PopCap Power Pack, it made me feel special.”
“So intense and stressful, it made me cry.”
- optimization1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 100 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The reviews highlight that the game's optimization is groundbreaking, showcasing a deep understanding of development that effectively addresses complex themes. The direction and screenplay work together to enhance the overall experience, suggesting a well-optimized performance that resonates with players.