"Fun with Squares"

Boom Blox is an engrossing puzzle game built around a physics engine that allows for many situations and puzzletypes. These include a Jenga like block pulling game, shooting galleries, and attempts to deconstruct a structure in as few throws of a ball as possible, among others. Most of the attention was paid to the gameplay and making this as enjoyable as possible, and it shows.

Controls

The controls are relatively simple, you use the Wii controller to grab and maneuver blocks, or to fire off projectiles, and to turn the camera. The addition of the Nunchuk attachment makes maneuvering the camera simpler. However, it is not required. You can move the camera by holding down the B button and moving the Wii controller side to side.

Graphics

The graphics are clean, bright, colorful, and fairly adorable. You can clearly make out the different block types while admiring the backdrop and all the fuzzy pals loafing around in it. I suppose those cute little animals were included so to give the game some character and make it feel less like a utilitarian game of explosive Jenga. Well it worked.

Gameplay

The gameplay is addicting. You'll be replaying challenges again and again trying to earn gold. Also, it is just plain fun to knock over stuff. Explore and Adventure are the meat of the singleplayer experience There are multiplayer challenges available, both competitive and cooperative. A Create mode is also included, where you can make and send your own puzzles.

Sounds

The sounds and accompanying soundtrack are fitting. The music is noticeably Sims 2ish, given this is an EA title, and the animal sounds are cute and odd at some times. You'll never hear a cuter baby cow in your life. I'm also certain I've heard a couple animal noises lifted right from The Sims.

Final Word

I'm not sure how Stephen Spielberg was involved in this game, but he certainly put his name on a quality product. This game is challenging while still being fun and exciting. My only complaints have to do with the hassle of friend codes for sending puzzles, but that really has more to do with the infrastructure of the Wii rather than the fault of the game.

Go get this.

Save the baby cows! You have to wonder how they got on top of a teetering pile of blocks and what they're trying to do in the first place. Silly cows! Silly, adorable cows.

:D

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 05/23/08

Game Release: Boom Blox (US, 05/06/08)