Lumines Electronic Symphony continues to do what it
has always done well: deliver great block puzzles along with fantastic music.
If
you've played Lumines before, you know what to expect with this new
version. There are a few new additions gameplay-wise, including a new chain
block that can clear huge sections of the board and a new leveling experience
system, but, besides that, there are no fundamental gameplay changes or new modes
in Electronic Symphony. The chain block brings a layer of tension to the
game when tight situations look like they will end your game. As the blocks pile
higher, one of these new blocks will allow you to clear specific colored blocks
in a chain to free space on the board and give you new life. Similarly, there is
a new block that randomizes blocks, creating the possibility for utterly huge
parts of the board to be cleared... if you're lucky.
A "sigh of relief" worthy moment.
One
of the things I appreciated most about Lumines Electronic Symphony was
that I wasn't racing against a continuously thumping beat; the soundtrack is a
solid mix of lounge-ish music you'd find in a Hotel lobby or chic bar. It's
no mistranslation or afterthought that the main mode is called "Voyage." As each stage passes, you find yourself in a different place with a
different vibe, being taken on a bit of a trip with the music. The soundtrack
includes a wide range of artists, including: 808 State, The Chemical Brothers,
System F, The Beloved, Aphex Twin, Amon Tobin, Pet Shop Boys, The Go!
Team... and even (oddly enough) LFO. The soundtrack is eclectic, really works
and is one of the most enjoyable parts of the game.
Outside
of Voyage, there is a timed mode, ad hoc multiplayer duels and a master section for
the Lumines adept; there are no challenge modes or puzzle modes to
extend your play sessions, which is a bit of a disappointment.
Blue and Yellow - Wiz Khalifa
I
did expect a bit more out of Lumines on the Vita. Touch controls added
flexibility with how I could control and manipulate blocks, but in heated
moments I found that I still preferred the traditional button controls. There's
also the option to tap the back touch pad to recharge your avatar's special
ability, but that's really it for touch-specific features or functions. The
Vita's screen shows off the sharp graphics and mind-bending skins well. Lumines has never looked better; there's a crispness to the visuals that make the 3D
visuals and dynamic backgrounds really pop.
Lumines remains challenging without being punishing. You'll get
better and better the more you play and you will be rewarded with new visuals
and new experiences all along. I enjoyed my time with Lumines Electronic
Symphony and it has guaranteed a permanent spot on my Vita rotation; I just
wish it had done more this time around.
