I would have loved to see more of these moments, but for most of Q.U.B.E 2‘s duration, the game flow still telegraphs the solutions by offering up a new ability or two each round. There are admittedly some cool skill combinations used here - a particular favorite was when the user needs to think three steps ahead, precisely add a substance to a block, move the block, and then burn the block to open up a previously unattainable passage forward. Later in the game, the levels present intricate tests of multiple skills which play out like a futuristic Rube Goldberg machine, and are just as satisfying when figured out.Īpart from these minor twists, the game still follows the time-honored tropes of its genre - introduce a skill, use the skill, compile the skill for “boss” levels, and repeat. Though gravity and momentum have been key to this genre since (yes, I’m making the comparison again) Portal, Q.U.B.E 2 brings more involved, slightly less obvious use of slippery surfaces, variable speed fans, and environmental damage. For example, red blocks can be extended and compressed, blue blocks can create jump pads, and green blocks harbor a number of environment-specific functionalities, depending on the level. It’s still very much a matter of players using the tools and abilities available in front of them, but now the blocks have distinct functions. Whereas the original Q.U.B.E was a direct variant of Portal’s “manipulate the tools in the room” aesthetic, this sequel introduces a touch more freedom. In terms of mechanics, Q.U.B.E 2 makes a good first impression. Of course, Valve’s classic puzzler was an instant classic and remains worthwhile today, but after 10 years of doing so, I have to ask myself how long I need to make the same comparisons? Based on my time with Q.U.B.E. I’ve spent a lot of time playing puzzle-based, first-person “walking simulators” these days, such as Gone Home and The Turing Test, and not one of them can be discussed without mentioning Portal. WTF How come space scientists keep getting abandoned on planets full of puzzles? LOW Why does the framerate stutter in an empty room containing nothing but moving blocks? HIGH Creative puzzles and striking visual design.
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