The WhatsNext verdict
Supaplex is a superb choice for patient puzzle players who enjoy Boulder Dash-style rules pushed into intricate, demanding logic boards. Play it for the clever level design and the addictive satisfaction of finally seeing a plan work.
What it does best
Boulder Dash ideas expanded into intricate logic puzzles
A relentlessly addictive puzzle spiral
Visible improvement through learned timing and rules
What might put you off
Huge, punishing levels with little room for mistakes
Static presentation and limited audiovisual variety
The setup
What you are walking into
Supaplex is the first Boulder Dash-like game that is not fully grid-based: while the playing field is an obvious grid, the objects do not "snap" from one grid position to another, but can be halfway or "in between" grid positions. Supaplex introduces a number of new elements that were not present in Boulder Dash, including bugs, pieces of base that randomly cause a life threatening electrostatic discharges, Ports, which limit Murphy's movement to specific directions, and terminals, which set off yellow Utility Disks. Utility Disks are explosive floppy disks and come in three different colors: Orange Disks work like Zonks, but explode when hit or when falling. Yellow Disks do not fall yet may be pushed in any direction, and explode when the Terminal is used. Red Disks can be carried and dropped when convenient, exploding seconds after.
Where it lives
Genre
Vibe
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