Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords

Snackbar-Games.com (5 out of 5)

This title does have a few elements that are unpolished. Those looking for intriguing dialogue or an original story will be disappointed, but the one that's there does provide enough framework to have it make sense. The game's four classes beg for four save slots, and the two available are somewhat limiting. The sound is repetitive, and the AI seems to almost always make the right moves.

Kombo.com (9.5 out of 10)

Even though Puzzle Quest hits every technical aspect out of the park, it won’t appeal to everyone as the RPG elements might be too heavy. Still, Puzzle Quest gives a huge shot in the arm for the puzzle genre and I’m looking forward to seeing what is in store next for this franchise.

411mania.com (9.1 out of 10)

Well faults aside this is one of the best puzzle games on the DS. It successfully manages to create a game that uses old elements of two genres to create something that actually feels fresh and new. On top of that its a budget title so everyone should at least try this game as it really is excellent value for money. It manages to be a complete success on a console that is rapidly gaining a reputation for excellent puzzle games.

Gaming Nexus (A-)

Puzzle Quest is easily one of the best games of the year, it offers a crazy mix of puzzle and role-playing elements to create something that is fun no matter what type of gamer you are.

UGO (UnderGroundOnline) (A-)

Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords is so far possibly the biggest surprise of 2007. Based on its uniqueness alone, it would be outrageous for this game to be overlooked as best puzzle game of the year. If it were up to me, I'd even put it in the running for best DS game of the year. Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords is an original, fun and incredibly addicting adventure that should not be missed by any DS owner.

Game Shark (A-)

In the end, that’s all this game is about: experience. The time you spend earning it is well worth it, not just because it makes your hero stronger but also because of the additive fun you have along the way.

GamerDad ( )

Unfortunately, since the battle mode has the player taking turns with an opponent, true puzzle purists may become frustrated as the game is then less controlled than one without an opponent. It is much harder to set-up long matching chains, as a good setup will typically be preempted by one's opponent. Despite this minor "purist" drawback, the rest of the game shines and is perfect for almost any age or demeanor.

Defunct Games (90 out of 100)

Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords is easily one of the strongest single-player games of the year. It's the type of game that almost anybody can get into, and best of all you can play the entire game with only one hand. If you set out to complete every mission and max out your characters skills, then chances are you'll be involved with this game for hundreds of hours. And even after you've seen and done everything, you'll want to go back and do it all over again ... the game is that addictive. It may have a silly name, but Puzzle Quest is one of those games that everybody should own. Even if you're not into puzzlers or role-playing games, this is definitely one game you can't let slip by.

Games TM (9 out of 10)

Carefully put together and fine-tuned to clockwork perfection, the greatest sign of Puzzle Quest's inherent mastery is the way it grips you from start to finish. Puzzle Quest's battles demand so much attention and give so much in return that players will find themselves hunting down every option fight and undertaking each side quest in order to squeeze every last drop of gameplay from this utterly absorbing adventure.

UOL Jogos ( )

"Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords" tem a diversão rápida e inteligente dos quebra-cabeças e ainda abusa da customização dos RPGs. Possui uma mecânica tão sólida e equilibrada que tem potencial suficiente para dar início a um novo gênero, o "Puzzle RPG" - tal como "Secret of Mana" e "Diablo" impulsionaram e popularizaram o "Action RPG". Mesmo com seus pequenos problemas, já pode ser considerado uma das melhores surpresas do ano para o portátil da Nintendo.

NintendoWorldReport (9 out of 10)

Above all, strategy fans should particularly enjoy the many ways that Puzzle Quest makes you think about the complex interactions among your character, the opponent, and the puzzle board. Ironically, the only audience who may be lost in this adventure is the casual sector, i.e. the very people who turn off their brains for hours to play the original Bejeweled. For anyone else, I can't recommend Puzzle Quest highly enough. It's a refreshing blend of genres, perfectly suited for handheld play, and almost impossible to put down.

GamePro (US) (4.5 out of 5)

The game isn't perfect by any means--I won't go so far as to accuse the computer A.I. of cheating, but I have my suspicions as the touchscreen will sometimes misread your move. If you're a puzzle nut, then Puzzle Quest will probably keep you up way past your bedtime, muttering "Just one more match and I swear I'll turn it off." But you know what? You probably won't.

Gamers' Temple, The (90 out of 100)

About the only true negative aspect of the game is the touchpad sensitivity, as the game has a nasty habit of occasionally missing your taps by a jewel. This is promptly followed by an “illegal move” message and the loss of your turn, which is often enough to turn the tide of battle against you.

4Players.de (90 out of 100)

Es ist enorm, welche riesige Staubwolke ein so scheinbar kleines Spiel aufwirbeln kann! Puzzle Quest wurde aus der Not heraus geboren - schlug aber ein wie der Sprengkopf einer dicken Blockbuster-Bombe. In dem Krater, den es hinterlässt, werden sich mit Sicherheit nicht nur Nachkommen niederlassen, sondern auch etliche Nachahmer. Doch wieso? Genau genommen ist es weder innovativ noch reizt es seine Rollenspielaspekte voll aus. Das muss es aber nicht, denn seine wahre Stärke liegt in dem auf den ersten Blick banalen, beim zweiten Hinsehen enorm tiefgründigen Kampfsystem. Mit allem, was dazu gehört, denn der Zitadellen-Bau, das Erobern von Städten, das Einfangen von Monstern oder Reittieren und nicht zuletzt das Schmieden besonders starker Waffen haben direkt mit dem Kampf zu tun. Das komplette Spiel wirkt wie aus einem Guss - ein Guss, in dem alles greifbar scheint und trotzdem stets eine Herausforderung stellt.

GamesRadar ( )

So, if you’re completely averse to the simplicity of the Match 3 format, then chances are you won’t like Puzzle Quest. But it’s not that straightforward - because of the deep sense of planning, strategy, story and general slickness, it’ll probably suck you in, anyway.

Eurogamer.de (9 out of 10)

Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords ist ein wunderbares Spiel. Nicht nur, weil es so die auf den ersten Blick wahnwitzige Kombination aus Casual Game und komplexem Rollenspiel schafft, sondern weil es süchtig macht, - zum Glück - unglaublich umfangreich ist und Euch spielen lässt, wie Ihr wollt: Mal eben in zehn Minuten zwei, drei Kämpfe bestreiten? Kein Problem. Oder doch lieber ein, zwei Stunden lang der Hauptstory folgen? Genauso möglich. Ein fast perfektes Spiel für jede Gelegenheit also.

FileFactory Games / Gameworld Network (90 out of 100)

A must-have for DS RPG and puzzle fans. Here's to a Puzzle Quest 2 in the near future.

Gamesmania.de (89 out of 100)

Da muss Schalke erst gegen Porto ins Elfmeterschießen kommen, bis ich endlich mal für ein paar Minuten meine PSP aus der Hand lege. Das Puzzle Quest-Virus hat mich seit einer Woche fest im Griff. In jeder freien Minute levele ich meinen Recken auf und schlage spannende Schlachten gegen Trolle, Orcs & Co. Wer sich auch nur ein wenig für Rollen- und Puzzlespiele interessiert, kommt um diesen schlichtweg genialen Mix nicht herum. Bis auf den Verdacht, dass die KI manchmal etwas schummelt, gibt es kaum Negatives über das Spiel zu berichten - es macht einfach höllisch Spaß. Die Handheld-Umsetzungen sind sehr gut gelungen. Schnelle Ladezeiten, komfortable Steuerung und gute Ausnutzung des breiten Bildschirms auf der PSP und der Dual Screens auf dem DS - was will man mehr? Geizhälse holen sich trotzdem lieber die Originalversion für Xbox Live Arcade. Alle anderen greifen zur Handheldfassung, die mit einem attraktiven Verkaufspreis geradezu darum bettelt, euer stetiger Begleiter zu werden!

Netjak (8.9 out of 10)

The game isn't pretty and can be frustrating when the A.I. decides there's no bleeping way you're winning a fight, but an addictive battle system and surprisingly in-depth RPG elements will keep most players interested for a long time. Whether you want a game that can be picked up and played for a short time or something in-depth with lots of strategy and replay value, this title is a worthy purchase.

IGN (8.9 out of 10)

What a pleasant surprise Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords turned out to be. The unlikely marriage of puzzle gameplay with RPG mechanics makes for one of the most addictive DS experiences yet. While there are a handful of graphical and audio flaws, the core game is solid as a rock. What is perhaps the most telling evidence of Puzzle Quest's fun factor is that I'll still be playing long after I've finished this review.

DS-x2 (8.9 out of 10)

Overall, this is a game that can provide hours of fun to a whole host of different players. It should satisfy the Role Player and Puzzle head in all of us. It could also cater to a wide range of ages due to it clear simple gameplay. It all adds up to a very compelling experience, and one that shouldn’t be missed.

Cheat Code Central (4.4 out of 5)

This game has taken the best aspects of two winning genres and created an experience that is both original and rewarding. Both puzzle hounds and dungeon crawlers alike will find this game to be just what the doctor ordered. So before you head out west or north to the lake, be sure and head out to your local game store and pick up a copy Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords.

Nintendojo (8.5 out of 10)

Barring head-scratching omissions in multiplayer and slightly iffy touch control, Puzzle Quest does a great job at taking a free game and adding enough content to make it worthwhile. Not only is the single-player campaign above and beyond most other puzzle games, but it's deep and lengthy enough to warrant a purchase for those who don't have anybody else to play against. Kudos to 1st Playable for combining two great genres that surprisingly play great together.

Deeko (8.5 out of 10)

If you're looking for something new to take home and try, Puzzle Quest is certainly a viable option. If you are a puzzle fan and hate role-playing games, you'll love it. If you're a role-playing lover who despises puzzle games, you'll want to hug it. If you're a first person shooter fan who loves to kill things, well, you might like this. While the premise of the title simple sound ridiculous on paper, the entire game is well thought out and put together, leaving us with a game that you simply can't put down no matter how hard you try. Inventive, colorful, fun, deep - these are but a few words that describe what this title is like. But don't take my word for it - go out and try it for free on your PC from the official site, so give it a try, before you buy!

PAL Gaming Network (PALGN) (8.5 out of 10)

A worthwhile addition to anyone’s DS collection. And if you love puzzle games, then you won’t be disappointed with Puzzle Quest.

Worth Playing (8.5 out of 10)

Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords has a truly unique concept and includes the ability to appeal to both role-playing and puzzle fans alike. The game has definitely created a potentially exciting new genre of entertainment, and I think Vicious Cycle did an excellent job in portraying this new look and feel, while still focusing on a beautiful, well-written storyline.

GBase - The Gamer's Base (8.5 out of 10)

Abgerundet wird das Spiel mit einer ansprechenden Hintergrundgeschichte und einer guten Ton- und Grafikverpackung. Auch auf dem Nintendo DS macht Puzzle Quest eine gute Figur und steht der PS2 in nichts nach. Es gelang, das komplette Spiel ohne grosse Verluste auf den Handheld zu portieren. Lediglich ein paar Grafikeffekte wurden entfernt, was den Spielspass aber keineswegs mindert.Dank kurzer Ladezeiten und dem verhältnismässig günstigen Preis ist Puzzle Quest nicht nur was für Puzzle-Freunde. Vor allem klassischen Rollenspielern und Neueinsteigern sei das Spiel wärmstens ans Herz gelegt. Es birgt absolutes Suchtpotenzial!

Portable Review (34 out of 40)

All in all, this is a great game, and easily the most addictive one I’ve played in some time. I actually had to have a friend hide my DS so I could write this review. It’s a great title for all RPG fans or puzzle game fans, and I highly recommend it. You might want to get a rag though, since your other DS games are gonna be collecting some dust.

Just RPG (85 out of 100)

All in all, Puzzle Quest is an addictive experience that should easily please both the hardcore and casual gamer. The enjoyable puzzle-style gameplay and the easy learning curve also make it a great way to introduce newcomers to the RPG genre.

The Review Busters (8.5 out of 10)

In general I think Puzzle Quest is a puzzle game that should appeal to both RPG and puzzle fans. The game might not have enough role playing aspects to compare it to any of the Final Fantasy games, but that might have been for the best. For what the game costs, $19.99 or less, it is well worth every dime. Pick up Puzzle Quest if you can, but maybe place this title in moderations so you don't dislike it way too fast.

1UP (8.5 out of 10)

The majority of my Puzzle Quest hours were logged on the DS, and though the PSP version does look a hell of a lot nicer, I liked the convenience of the stylus for moving puzzle blocks. Sometimes it takes a steady hand; I did botch a few moves due to stylus mishaps, but brave Rod recovered. The PSP version does have a bug that prevents your companions' special abilities from actually working, but that doesn't have much impact on the gameplay. The PSP version is supposed to have tougher A.I., however, so I kind of regret starting on the DS version first. Too late now -- Rod's got a full quest log and more dudes to slay in brutal puzzle combat.

Gamernode (8.4 out of 10)

Puzzle Quest is just plain great. The PSP is the better version, but if you only have a DS you should still pick it up.

Atomic Gamer (84 out of 100)

Puzzle Quest is a very unique and refreshing take on both puzzle games and RPGs. It successfully fuses the two with plenty of strategic options on both the world map and the combat screen. The story won't win any awards, but you can always skip it and just get right to the meat of the game. The controls in the DS version are frustrating in some situations, but the graphics are plenty good compared to other games on Nintendo's handheld. Wi-fi play is included, but it's only local, which is a bit of a disappointment. Still, with its great puzzle elements, this is one of the most original RPGs to be released on the DS (or on any platform, really) and I can heartily recommend it to fans of both genres.

Game Captain (84 out of 100)

Puzzle Quest verbindet elegant und konsequent die Einfachheit eines Puzzle-Spiels mit der Motivation und Komplexität eines Rollenspiels. Wer beiden Genres auch nur ein bischen was abgewinnen kann, sollte sich den Titel auf jeden Fall mal ansehen.

Game Revolution (B+)

Still it’s all in good fun, and it’s interesting to see other peoples’ strategies and compare them to your own. For either system, Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords is a portable addiction, and while I recommend the PSP version, the DS game is almost as good. Besides, it’s not about the graphics, right? In my life, I never thought I’d end up playing this much Bejeweled. I guess that makes me a dork.

The A.V. Club (B+)

Handheld consoles feature no dearth of puzzle games, but Puzzle Quest does such a great job of melding two seemingly disparate game genres that it's worth nabbing—if only for the novelty.

GameSpot (8.1 out of 10)

The appeal of Puzzle Quest for fans of either RPGs or puzzle games is quite obvious, as it does a great job of scratching two distinctly different types of itches simultaneously. What's most remarkable about Puzzle Quest, though, is how a simple change of context turns some tired genre conventions that have been done to death into something that's suitable for just about anyone, regardless of your interest in the components.

Gamestyle (8 out of 10)

It’s an interesting idea taking both of these two distinctively different genres are brought together, and for the most part they work. A few minor niggles don’t spoil our enjoyment of Puzzle Quest and it is most definitely one of the most addictive games on Nintendo’s handheld wonder.

Jive Magazine (4 out of 5)

Overall, while we did like this game we have to stress that this is game is mainly for the old school RPG player and not the mainstream market. With that being said, it does hit all the main components of a true RPG/Puzzle game and provides thoroughly enjoyable gameplay.

HonestGamers (Staff reviews only) (8 out of 10)

Most of the elements of this game come together in fine form, meaning it's an experience you won't want to miss.

Modojo ( )

Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords is an addictive, entertaining affair that takes a little bit of patience and learning to get down the basics. Once learned, however, you'll be hooked in no time flat and unwilling to turn a cold shoulder to it. Even with the notion of fighting creatures in puzzle combat sounding as silly as it is, you won't get enough of it. Trust us, kids. We're professionals- we must be after killing zombies with their own skulls.

Wham! gaming (8 out of 10)

Don’t be put off by this oddball mixture of a casual puzzle game and a fantasy role-playing adventure. Puzzle Quest is stellar as both, and amazingly addictive.

G4 TV: X-Play ( )

That said, this is probably the deepest, longest, and most detailed Bejeweled imitation anyone will bother to make. Wrapped around that not-quite-original center, there’s a ton of additional complexity and content. So long as you’re not the crusading moral outrage type, Puzzle Quest could eat up a lot of otherwise empty hours.

DarkZero (8 out of 10)

There’s nothing more admirable than a game that’s well polished and carefully designed, but by the same account there’s nothing more amazing than a game that’s enthralling to play despite being pretty broken. If you have a DS and haven’t played Puzzle Quest, go and buy it. It’s cheap as chips, and it’s an absolute blast.

GameDaily (8 out of 10)

Everyone should play Puzzle Quest, as it puts a new spin on a classic adventure game formula while at the same time breathing fresh air into a stale puzzle genre. The way that it converts a typical puzzle game into an RPG experience has to be seen to be believed -- thankfully, there's a PC demo to help get gamers hooked.

Thunderbolt Games (8 out of 10)

Despite its presentational faults, however, Puzzle Quest is a game worth picking up. It's a perfect game for handhelds, combining the simplicity of puzzles with the addictive nature of RPGs. Even though it sounds like the result of an executive meeting gone horribly awry, Puzzle Quest is actually a great piece of synergy. If players can look past the dull adventure segments, they'll find a puzzle game that will be a loyal companion for every bus ride.

Nintendo Life ( )

As I said at the start of the review, I was almost going to pass this game up. Thankfully, the buzz that is currently sweeping the internet prevented me from doing so, otherwise I would have been missing out on one of the most essential DS purchases this year. It is slighly rough in places and it's highly likely that the developers will improve on this excellent concept with a sequel, but in the meantime you really should do yourself a favour and check this fantastic game out.

Eurogamer.net (UK) (8 out of 10)

Fortunately it's something that - a few hissy tantrums and the odd parking ticket aside - the average grown-up will be able to cope with, and there's little else to stop us recommending Puzzle Quest. As to which version, the PSP is the better-looking, but reportedly suffers from a trifling bug that renders your quest companions' skills useless, so you might prefer to play it on the DS, where it looks slightly less exciting, but does offer stylus controls, which mostly work fine. Whichever you opt for, we reckon the score below fits. If you disagree, perhaps we'll see you at the usual time and the usual place, but do remember to bring Puzzle Quest, because it has excellent local wireless multiplayer, and we're out of rubber bands to flick at you.

GameSpy ( )

Both versions of Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords come highly recommended, and even in light of the annoying bugs, the PSP version is the better choice and deserving of our Editor's Choice recommendation. Mind you, this impression hinges on a comparison across the two versions of the game. If you only have a Nintendo DS, then you'll find that the game still functions quite well and is plenty of fun. It's not nearly as visually attractive, however, and the interface issues we encountered were a common annoyance. Regardless of which handheld you prefer, make sure to buy this game and recommend it to your friends. It also can't hurt to hope for a sequel with online multiplayer support. Just remember to stop leveling once in a while to get some sleep. After a few more sleepless nights, maybe I'll be able to take my own advice.

Pocket Gamer UK (8 out of 10)

All-in-all, Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords provides an experience that despite its hybrid nature is surprising enjoyable, engaging and lengthy, if overly difficult at times. It's unlikely to gain the sort of widespread reputation of Monty Python's quest, but we think you'll have a hard time saying "Ni!" to this innovative little gem.

Video Game Generation (8 out of 10)

Puzzle Quest for the DS is a fantastic example of blending and merging genres. It’s a rarity to see it done so well, without one side overpowering the other. Puzzle Quest has a lot of longevity in its game play, giving it a ton of replay value. If you’re looking for something to play at work, when commuting, or just for relaxing, Puzzle Quest fills that bill nicely, with its fast gameplay allowing you to pick up and play, or turn off, at a moment’s notice.

Gamervision (8 out of 10)

However, I do believe this game to be a very good one. It appears on one platform for each of the major three companies currently banging heads, so no matter who you swear allegiance to you can buy it – which I recommend. I put on my robe and wizard hat to recommend you:

GamesAreFun.com (GAF) (8 out of 10)

Puzzle Quest blends the best parts of two genres that couldn't be more different into a single well balanced and incredibly fun game. It doesn't matter if you either don't like RPGs or don't like puzzle games, there's a good chance you'll like Puzzle Quest anyway. But particularly if you enjoy both genres, there's no excuse for you not to play this game.

GameZone (8 out of 10)

A solid, entertaining slice of dual-genre pie. I like the puzzle fighting, I liked the plot, I liked the game.

Nintendo Difference (16 out of 20)

Ce Puzzle Quest sur DS est une réussite, agréable, maniable et véritablement jouissif par moment, c’est avec plaisir qu’on l’accueil sur une console qui depuis un bail n’avait pas eu le droit à son casse-tête de grande envergure. On prend et on en redemande. Peut-être que le prochain prendra pour univers fantastique l’espace et tout ce qui va avec ? Pourquoi pas après tout !

Christ Centered Gamer / Christ Centered Game Reviews (77.5 out of 100)

Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords is a really engaging puzzle/RPG hybrid that is unfortunately brought down from the accolades it deserves with really unnecessary appropriateness issues. If the Medusa was not in this game, I probably would have recommended it to anyone who does not mind the fantasy setting or the mythical gods or other references and wants a great puzzle game. Instead, I am forced to not recommend it.. which is a real shame.

Jeuxvideo.com (15 out of 20)

Quel rapport y a-t-il entre un puzzle-game et un jeu de rôle ? Aucun, et pourtant Puzzle Quest parvient à réunir les deux pour un résultat étonnant. Les phases de réflexion s'intègrent de manière logique dans l'aventure, et le système de jeu est suffisamment intéressant pour donner envie de recommencer la campagne plusieurs fois. Une très bonne surprise.

AceGamez (7 out of 10)

The role-playing elements are relatively well done, even though they fall into the same potholes of repetition that have plagued the genre for twenty years. All in all, the game manages to provide something different and wholly entertaining - even though it's nothing revolutionary, the blending of standard RPG and puzzle elements does make for an end product whose sum is greater than the value of its halves.

RPGamer (3 out of 5)

In theory, it’s the perfect game, but its bugs, flaws, frustration, and repetition detract from its fun factor to the point where Puzzle Quest really can't be considered much more than average. Paradoxically, the game is horribly addicting yet horribly frustrating at the same time; it's impossible to put down but often infuriating to play. The idea is amazing, though, and here's hoping that more developers will take after Puzzle Quest's example and learn from its mistakes in order to usher in a new genre of "Puzzle-RPGs."

Legendra ( )

On se retrouve au final avec un jeu assez bancal, mais néanmoins original par son système de combat. Il est cependant dommage que l’aspect « RPG » soit globalement trop peu développé et trop stéréotypé. De même, il est dommage que l’aspect « puzzle game » soit aussi aléatoire, bien que certains combats vaillent le détour (contre les boss, notamment). Quant aux aspects techniques, ils sont plutôt quelconques et ce ne sont pas les aspects artistiques (design, musiques) qui viendront rehausser l’affaire. Bref, c’est un RPG correct, mais sans plus, dont le seul intérêt réside dans l’originalité du système de combat.

GamersMark (5.5 out of 10)

For what it is, Puzzle Quest is mildly addictive, with a fairly long, albeit mildly boring quest. This game is worth looking into as a diversion, but anybody expecting anything more out of this will be let down; puzzle fans should look into Meteos or its Disney-flavored sequel instead.

RPG Land (4 out of 10)

All games are going to have repetition in them. A good game is one that can divert the effects of its repetition and give players a way to minimize the time they spend repeating the same motions. In the end, Puzzle Quest is crushed by its own tedium and repetition. While it has a fun system and passable story, it also has irritating glitches and poor or incomplete elements that make this game feel like an unfinished product. It’s an interesting cross-genre experiment, and can be addictive and fun, but fails to live up to the great potential that it has.