Asea Review

Written by: David Laprad Published: June 16, 2005 A literature professor of mine once said he'd give a good grade to an average essay that was neatly typed and printed. Given his appreciation for how a good presentation can elevate run of the mill content, he'd probably approve of my review of Asea, a new match-three game from developer Kraisoft. I like Asea. In terms of gameplay, it doesn't do anything unlike hundreds of other match-three games; you merely swap differently colored lilies in an effort to clear them from a pond. But the graphics are so delightful and the sounds so relaxing, Asea can be likened to a cool breeze blowing off the ocean. Asea comes with three modes that will appeal to various kinds of players. The Quest mode challenges you to clear a path across the pond for a small boat. Along the way, you have to collect different items along the shoreline and then deliver them. For example, a native of the island might ask you to collect a juicy ham for the feast he's preparing. Once you clear the lilies between you and the food, your boat will gather its bounty and return it to the chef. You win the puzzle by delivering all of the items and then passing through the exit. Patience is more important than strategy when playing Quest Mode. More lilies appear at random each time you make a match, and there are always plenty of plants to swap, so your grey matter won't get much of a workout. The laidback nature of the gameplay, however, is refreshing. You'll have to put on your thinking cap for Puzzle Mode, however. Each of its 30 brainteasers offers a specific arrangement of lilies. To solve a puzzle, you must swap the plants in such a manner they all disappear. Trial and error come into play, as you have to learn which way each lily drifts once other plants aren't boxing it in. The first few puzzles are simple, but they get complicated. This mode should please anyone who likes a mental challenge. Finally, if you want to play a quick game, try Arcade Mode, in which you race against time to match as many lilies as you can. Special gold plants net twice as many points, while black lilies won't budge. A high score table is available for all three modes, allowing you to compete against friends and family members for bragging rights. Even more charming than the gameplay are the visuals and audio. The pond is a blue grid on which the lilies are placed. Although that sounds boring, the grid undulates realistically, as though the lilies were moving across actual water. Surrounding each pond are various 3D scenes ranging from a tropical island to an arctic land mass. Each one is bursting with color and eye-pleasing detail. In a nice touch for the easily entertained (I count myself among your ranks), some of the animals and natives animate when you click on them. Even the boat looks convincing as it chugs across the pond. Add relaxing music and the sound of waves lapping against the shoreline, and you have a wonderful digital stress-killer. Asea is a good casual game. It's enjoyable to play and the gameplay is calming. If you want a challenge, it can provide that as well. Sure, Asea is derivative, but neatness counts, too.