I've always enjoyed puzzle games even if I'm not the best at them. The problem is usually the pressure of arbitrary time limits which get in the way of my ability to think my way through the puzzle. I also get tired of endless
Tetris,
Bejeweled, and
Puzzle Bobble clones. So, whenever a fresh idea for a puzzle game comes along, I welcome it. I found such a fresh idea with
Strata, and it has since become one of my favorite puzzle games.
Like all good puzzle games, the concept to
Strata is simple to grasp. With each of the 489 stages, you are presented with a square grid ranging from 2x2 to 6x6 and at least two colors of ribbon. The grid has certain squares set with different colors, and your goal is to weave the ribbons so that the color pattern matches the starting grid. There are two catches to this which provide the challenge. One, all the rows in both directions have to be used; no blank rows allowed. Two, when two ribbons cross, the color on top is the one that counts.
The game starts incredibly easy, and difficulty ramps up at a gentle pace. There are no time limits on any of the stages; you can take all the time you need to work out the pattern. The biggest challenge comes from scoring "Perfects" by getting the pattern right without making a mistake or backing off a ribbon. While the 489 puzzles will provide plenty of game for the $3.99 you spend, once you "perfect" them, you are done with the game. Speed-based leaderboards would've been a good addition to add to the game's longevity.
Aesthetically, the game is the embodiment of simple elegance. Straight lines and soft colors are all you see, but they serve the game perfectly. Nothing visual is unnecessary. The simple piano tunes that match your actions onscreen are relaxing, and the tune that plays when you score a "Perfect" is a great "Bravo" for your efforts.
Strata is something special, a unique puzzle game concept that looks great, plays well, gets addictive quickly, and stays relaxing all at the same time. Sure, once you "Perfect" all 489 puzzles, there's no reason to come back, but you are still guaranteed to get your money's worth. If you feel you need a little less stress in your gaming, rope this one up.
4.5