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Dale Hardshovel
3.5/5

Dale Hardshovel, by Phime Studio is a typical slide and match puzzle game that can while away some time. As you begin the game, you will notice there is no tutorial. Although it is a relatively simple game, a quick tutorial would be very beneficial, because you do not realize that there is a method to which you must match all similar icons in order to be able to pass the level.

Aligning the icons in matching sets of two or three will cause them to disappear, and when you have cleared the screen, you move on to the next level. The trial contains a limited number of levels, so although there is no tutorial, you are able to easily move through the levels, finishing the trial fairly quickly.

The cell-shaded cartoon graphics begin with the plot line, presented in comic book style as you discover that your search is for a special Egyptian artifact. You must move through the levels, which are all contained within a pyramid, to find this artifact.

The sound consists of Egyptian-type background music and noises such as comments in an Australian accent, presumably from "Dale," and can range from "C'mon mate!" to "Good on ya, mate!"

The game play mode consists of full screen mode and window mode, and as usual, you can adjust the background volume. There are sounds and graphics when the icons drop and touch. Although this can consume some of your time, it is simply a remake and different story line on a typical puzzle game.

There are some creative ideas incorporated into this game, such as levels containing moving parts that you must work around or use to complete the puzzle. Certain parts move around and you must use them to solve the puzzle, and this was different from most puzzle games in this genre.

Although it is a relatively simple game to figure out, it will keep the attention of most adults, provided you can endure the first few simple levels. Many puzzle game aficionados will quickly move through the beginning levels and could easily become bored with the lack of challenge at the beginning, but hang on and you will become more challenged as it continues.

This game is given a 3.5/5 rating because of the lack of tutorial, the average sounds and the lagging game speed when you move icons. Be sure to download the trial version to see if this is a game worth owning, but if you are a puzzle game fan, this is definitely a must play.

Learn more about this author, Adrienne Brunner.
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