Game Reviews

7x7

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7x7
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Sometimes a game is focused on such a strong idea that it requires minimal window-dressing and is able to entertain and enthral on its own merits.

The developers behind 7x7 are clearly hoping this is the case with their game, as it boasts presentation so understated you almost wonder if it was mistakenly released on the App Store in unfinished form. Even so, 7x7's addictive charms allow it to overcome such quibbles.

Grid runner

The game takes place on a 7x7 grid (hence the title) which is randomly filled with coloured blocks. The objective is to create vertical, horizontal, and diagonal lines from four blocks of the same colour, and this is achieved by dragging the blocks to their new locations.

The catch here is that as the grid begins to fill up you'll discover that you can't drag blocks if there's no clear path to where you want them to be.

After each move, more blocks are dropped into the arena, making it harder to position them and find new matches. The game ends when the playing field is entirely full, at which point your score is compiled and you start all over again.

Block head

7x7 boasts a clean aesthetic, but there's a disappointing lack of flair on display here. Even more surprising is the complete lack of any audio whatsoever - there's no music and not even a single sound effect to accompany your blockbusting efforts.

While sound is arguably less important in a puzzle game than it is in an action game packed with explosions, playing 7x7 in total silence is slightly unnerving.

The aim of besting your previous score keeps you coming back to 7x7 despite its sparse presentation, and the inclusion of Game Center achievements prolongs its lifespan further. Although it could do with a little bit more work when it comes to the visual and aural experience, the block-matching action is undeniably gripping - and will keep puzzle-lovers busy for many weeks to come.

7x7

This block-matching puzzle title is appealing enough to hold your attention, but the relatively lackluster presentation might prove too off-putting for some
Score
Damien  McFerran
Damien McFerran
Damien's mum hoped he would grow out of playing silly video games and gain respectable employment. Perhaps become a teacher or a scientist, that kind of thing. Needless to say she now weeps openly whenever anyone asks how her son's getting on these days.