by Chris Roper
Developer Eko System has done a bit of mixing of its own, blending elements of LocoRoco with Worms to create the rather fascinating Downstream Panic! The game's use of water simulation mixed with destructible environments and a limited tool system has resulted in a challenging, unique and, at times, fairly complex puzzle game that's sure to test your problem solving skills.
Downstream Panic! is an unpredictable, fast-paced, tactical puzzle-action that places players in the position of a sea-creature preservationist out to save the world from a fantastic cyclone that has blasted the world's fish into the Earth's atmosphere.
Yes there are other fish in the puzzle game sea, but Downstream Panic's Lemmings-esque gameplay is hard to resist. Sheparding your fish back to the sea and using the game's cotierie of bombs, nets, fans, harpoons, and other tools to navigate through and influence the title's 80 environments is both fun and challenging.
If there's one drawback, it's that it often feels like there is only one solution to each board, which isn't a huge crime except that it puts a damper on the Free mode, where you're allowed to buy extra (albeit sometimes superfluous) equipment to help you in your cause.
Downstream Panic is perhaps the first sleeper hit of the year for the PlayStation Portable. Fans of the puzzle genre should really check the game out, as for a mere $30 it offers a plethora of entertainment and fun. Its addictive gameplay will make sure that you play through all 80 missions, and come back for more. Furthermore, it features a solid amount of depth, and its presentation is quite easy on the eyes. Pick this one up.
Graphics - 7.5
Gameplay - 8.5
Sound - 8.0
Control - 8.0
Replay Value - 8.5
Overall -
I was thinking IGN would have given this game a 6 or something. but that's a great score. worth checking out!
with water physics mixed in seems fun possibly
Really hitting its stride =)
*eats gel tab*