Rubik's Cube Review - Screenshot 1 of 2

Cypronia's take on the original rage quit toy, the Rubik's Cube, is now available on both the Wii U and 3DS eShop. Does this game differ a great deal from a physical Rubik's Cube? No, not really. Like with releases such as Epic Word Search Collection 2, it's down to personal preference whether you opt to have a physical, tangible object or go for the virtual approach.

This review focuses on the Wii U version, for details on the differences with the 3DS version, click here.

Rubik's Cube serves up the following options right off the bat - Play, Solver, Teacher and Achievements. Choosing 'Play' will allow you to choose from 2x2x2 and 3x3x3 sizes before proceeding to solve the cube. Solver allows you to take a photo of your physical Rubik's Cube and allow the Wii U to solve it for you, which is quite a nifty idea; this writer didn't have an original Rubik's Cube to check this feature against, but the principle is a good one. Teacher helps you to learn pretty much everything you need to about solving a Rubik's Cube via a manual or video.

Rubik's Cube Review - Screenshot 2 of 2

Using the stylus on your Wii U GamePad you are able to rotate the pieces in order to complete the puzzle whilst the game records how many moves you have used and the time it takes you to complete it. There is also a back button which means you can reverse any moves you have made in error. The controls could use a little work as they are clunky at times, with the touch screen seemingly getting confused by the different sides on offer, resulting in pieces moving in ways you didn't intend. There is an online scoreboard, but no other form of internet functionality. The competitor in us wouldn't have minded a head to head-style battle against a friend to add some more variety.

The graphics in Rubik's Cube are fine, limited of course due to the nature of the game but nothing too bright or distracting. The music can get a little annoying after a while, but it's quite retro sounding which matches the theme. The tutorial video is also retro, though it's unclear if this is intentional or not, with a man talking you through the stages of completing a puzzle. The video is reminiscent of the training videos on your first day at a new job and can be a little cringeworthy; we prefer just reading the manual in this case. With all the help on offer Rubik's Cube can definitely not be accused of leading you in blindly.

Conclusion

Rubik's Cube does exactly what it says and does it relatively well, though lacks creativity in taking the core concept further. For the price it can be a good addition for those who love puzzles and prefer them virtually. Unfortunately for those who don't, there isn't much else to it.