2 of 10

Write now Article Tools

Xena Sola by XenoClone is an interesting little game, but very much like any number of other interesting little games out there. The graphics are nice, though not groundbreaking in any way. The gameplay is a simple strategy type of drawing tiles from the deck and positioning them to build a space station. The strategy involved could get very complex, providing hours of playtime and endless replay value. The computer generated opponents are challenging, keeping the game from becoming a mindless click and drag routine.

One element that adds a little interest is the ability to bet on where your opponents will place their tiles. Players can place their bets when they place a tile and if an opponent adds a tile adjacent to where the bet was placed the player gets bonus points. These points can really add up, so well placed bets can turn the tide very quickly. That adds a little spice to what would otherwise be just another reskin of a game format that has one too many incarnations.

The preview is very limited, making it hard to rate any special features the game might have that would make it stand out above the crowd. Players have no choice of opponents, or of their own avatar, making me wonder why the four little anime character pics are even there. The options menu is grayed out in the trial version and the playtime is limited to a five minute teaser. This makes buying the game a gamble in itself. From the short play time it is hard to tell if it is worth playing more than five minutes.

I am giving Xena Sola a 3 out of 5. If you have never played one of the myriad tile placing strategy games out there they can be loads of fun. If you have, and grown tired of them, this one is going to loose your interest pretty quickly. There is nothing really new and unique here for anyone how has played this type of game before. There may be some unique elements in the options that are not available on the demo, but that makes buying the game a gamble in itself. If XenoClone has a surprise up their sleeve they should give a little taste in the demo. Veterans of this type of game may want to pass.

Learn more about this author, Maxwell Cynn.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Downloadable game reviews: Xena Sola?
We want to hear your view. Write now!