Pyramids 2 (Nintendo 3DS) Second Opinion Review

At its core, Pyramids 2 features simple gameplay that works pretty well. The Egyptian puzzle-hero is moved with the control pad, jumps with the B button, and places blocks with the A button. Occasionally, he can even shoot with the X button, provided that the level offers ammunition. The real gameplay variety then comes from his ability to jump and place blocks. The blocks can be placed and destroyed endlessly, allowing for some creativity in completing puzzles. The goal is to find a key and then make it to the gate that said key unlocks.

If it sounds like this would be too easy, that's because it generally is. The first few dozen levels are fairly simple affairs. Many players will be able to gather all three possible stars in their first attempt - one star for simply completing the level, one for gathering the various trinkets scattered throughout, and the last for gathering these trinkets and completing the level within a given time-frame. These stars are added to the player's total and serve as currency for unlocking more levels.

The difficulty does ramp up after two dozen or so levels, however, challenging gamers to not just figure out a solution to the puzzle, but also deftly execute said solution without falling victim to rolling spike balls, patrolling monkeys, and dart-shooting enemies. In these more perilous situations, completing a level within the time limit to achieve all three stars becomes more challenging and, thus, satisfying.

It's all entertaining enough, and the attempt at carving out an identity with the Egyptian theme does add a bit of character, but ultimately doesn't save the production from having a somewhat bland feeling. In many ways, this is just another puzzle game to add to the queue after all the other ones have been used up.

Pyramids 2, however, does manage to distinguish itself a bit by offering a full map maker. This allows the player a chance to showcase a little artistic flair and share it with friends via QR code. This creates a social element that many puzzle games simply don't have. The developer deserves praise for this feature. In an era of unprecedented collaboration and sharing, it's somewhat surprising that map makers are still largely ignored by most companies. This small but useful feature makes a positive difference when comparing this title to the rest of the competition.