Review: Cubot – The Complexity of Simplicity

Cubot – The Complexity of Simplicity
Cost
$1.99 / £1.59
Format
Digital only
Size
0.35 GB
Available On
Xbox ONE [Reviewed], PS4, Steam
Release Date
01/08/16
Developer
NicoplvGames
Publisher
NicoplvGames
Modes
Single player

Cubot has a very straightforward mechanic. You control a coloured block (or cube if you prefer) and you need to get it to the like coloured square on the floor. But, as the name suggests there is a great amount of complexity to the implied simplicity. See what I did there?!

The game is split up into 10 episodes each with 8 levels with varying degrees of difficulty. They start off really simple, requiring you to guide your block to the coloured square on the floor by just avoiding some obstacles. As you progress through the levels the game introduces more complicated mechanics, such as extra blocks, different coloured blocks that move differently and teleports.

These pesky blocks move two squares at a time

These pesky blocks move two squares at a time

Cubot does a really good job at introducing a new mechanic during the beginning of each episode so you don’t feel overwhelmed by it. By the time you hit the mid levels of the episode you’re fully comfortable with how the levels work and you can really get into solving the puzzles put in front of you. By the end of some of the episodes I had some real head scratching moments…I just couldn’t figure out how to get the level done.

I’m not going to lie, I struggle with puzzle games and I did end up having to use some guides for the later levels but that didn’t take away from the enjoyment of the game. Anyone well versed, or even average at puzzle games would probably be able to figure them out without the need for a guide.

Blocks moving in different directions gave me more trouble than I care to admit.

Blocks moving in different directions gave me more trouble than I care to admit.

If there is anything to complain about it has to be the length of the game. You could probably finish it within 2-3 hours without the use of guides, maybe even less than that depending on your puzzle skills.

As far as achievements are concerned, the list is pretty unimaginative. There are a total of 10 achievements each for 10 which unlock at the end of every episode. This game is a must buy for any achievement hunters out there without a doubt.

Initially, I was sceptical. That scepticism didn’t last long. This game is a fantastic little puzzler and will give you a few hours of enjoyment. I know I painted the length of the game as a negative, but when you consider the price of the game sits at just $1.99 it is an absolute steal. I mentioned above that this is a must buy for achievement hunters and I would recommend it to pretty much anyone who enjoys casual puzzlers to give it a go.

A review code for Cubot – The Complexity of Simplicity was provided by the Developer for the purpose of this review.

PROS:
1) Great introductions to new mechanics
2) Excellent puzzles
3) More than reasonable price point
CONS:
1) Quite short
2) Achievement list is meh
7.9
GOOD