GameSpot editors' review
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CNET editors' rating:
stars
Very good
Detailed editors' rating
- Reviewed on: 06/20/2008
- Released on: 05/08/2008
- Originally published on GameSpot: PixelJunk Monsters Encore (PlayStation 3) Review
PixelJunk Monsters was a refreshing change from the glut of dual-stick shooters pervading console download services. Encore provides more of the same kind of strategic, trial-and-error gameplay, though it is aimed purely at fans yearning for an even greater challenge than the original offered. Indeed, the expansion is distinctly harder, so while it may contain fewer levels, it may take you longer to finish, particularly if you try to earn the ever-elusive rainbow reward bonus for each one. This is an expansion for dedicated fans only, but if you count yourself among them, you'll be pleased with this $5.99 download.
But first, a refresher on the basic gameplay. Wave after wave of monsters streams toward your vulnerable tribal village, and as a one-man construction crew, you turn trees into defense towers that blast those monsters into oblivion, leaving coins and upgrade jewels in their wake. This seems simple enough, but there's a surprising amount of depth. You must be conscious of how you spend your upgrade gems, consider destroying existing towers to make way for more efficient ones, and place your turrets in the locations they'll be most effective. It's also an exercise in time management, since you must balance the time you spend dancing in front of your towers (which causes them to advance in level more quickly) and running around collecting coins and gems.
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