Azkend 2: The World Beneath

Azkend 2: The World Beneath is a puzzle game where players match symbols to clear levels in a timed challenge. The game features various special elements like fog, fire, and locks, as well as power-ups that enhance gameplay. Players must navigate through a fantasy setting, uncovering relics and overcoming obstacles to progress.

Azkend 2: The World Beneath: Review

Introduction

Azkend 2: The World Beneath is a tile-matching puzzle game that transcends its genre with a captivating narrative, stunning visuals, and innovative gameplay mechanics. As a sequel to the original Azkend, it builds upon the foundations laid by its predecessor while introducing new elements that elevate the match-3 genre to new heights. This review delves into the game’s various aspects to determine its place in video game history.

Development History & Context

Developed by Finnish studio 10tons Ltd and released in 2012, Azkend 2: The World Beneath was a multi-platform release spanning Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and later consoles like PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. The studio, known for their puzzle game expertise, sought to expand upon the original Azkend’s formula by enhancing both gameplay and narrative depth.

The development team, led by Sampo Töyssy, Markus Jylhä, and Tero Alatalo, incorporated feedback from the first game while pushing the boundaries of what a match-3 puzzle game could offer. The collaboration with composer Jonathan Geer ensured a cinematic soundtrack, further immersing players in the adventure.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

The game’s story follows Jules, an adventurer caught in a storm that strands her in a mysterious underground world. Through journal entries and voiceovers, players experience her journey as she explores exotic locations, uncovers ancient relics, and battles environmental hazards.

Thematic elements of exploration, survival, and self-discovery permeate the narrative. The Jules Verne-inspired story weaves together elements of classic adventure tales with fantastical imagery, creating a compelling backdrop for the puzzle challenges.

Key plot points involve uncovering the secrets of the underground civilization, assembling essential tools, and ultimately finding a way back to the surface. While the story may not be groundbreaking, it provides a welcome narrative thread that elevates the gameplay experience beyond mere puzzle-solving.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

At its core, Azkend 2 is a match-3 puzzle game where players connect three or more identical symbols on a hexagonal grid. The primary objective is to turn all grid tiles blue by making matches, then guide a relic to the bottom of the screen by clearing symbols beneath it.

Innovative mechanics include:
– Power-ups: Active (like dynamite) and passive (like extra time) power-ups unlock as the game progresses, allowing strategic adjustments between levels.
– Special Elements: Fog, fire, locks, and bugs add complexity. For example, fire can spread if not contained, requiring timely matches adjacent to it.
– Bonus Levels: Periodic “spot the difference” levels where players must find a hidden image within a larger scene, offering a break from the main mechanics and charging Tesla coils for power boosts.
– Progression System: Unlocking new power-ups and equipment through exploration and puzzle completion.

The UI is designed for touch screens but adapts to console and PC controls, though some reviewers noted control issues on certain platforms. The game’s difficulty curve is balanced, offering both casual and challenging experiences.

World-Building, Art & Sound

The game’s world is brought to life through vibrant, hand-drawn art by Jussi Lehtiniemi, Sampo Töyssy, and Sariina Tani. Each location, from lush underground forests to ancient temples, boasts unique visual designs that reflect Jules’s journey. Dynamic backgrounds respond to player actions, enhancing immersion.

The soundtrack by Jonathan Geer is a standout feature, utilizing orchestral arrangements that evoke the grandeur of classic adventure films. Sound effects are subtle but effective, with particle effects adding visual flair to matches and power-up activations.

Reception & Legacy

Upon release, Azkend 2 received mixed to positive reviews across platforms. Critics praised its visuals, narrative, and gameplay variety but criticized control issues on console ports and repetitive gameplay in later stages.

• GameZebo (Windows): 100% – “Put simply, match-3 games don’t reach higher quality than what you’ll find in Azkend 2…”
• All About Symbian (Symbian): 90% – “An enthralling fantasy adventure.”
• Nindie Spotlight (Switch): 85% – “A great casual, but not too casual, match game…”
• TrueAchievements (Xbox One): 80% – “Fun, especially for fans of matching games…”
• Defunct Games (PS Vita): 75% – “A compelling story with addictive match-three gameplay.”
• Switch Player (Switch): 70% – “Addictive and retains your attention…”
• Nintendo Life (Switch): 70% – “Does everything it can to spice up the ‘match 3’ puzzle genre…”
• Video Chums (Xbox One): 63% – “Impressive but basic core gameplay…”
• Nintendo-Online.de (Switch): 60% – “A better Match-3 than expected…”
• Pure Xbox (Xbox One): 50% – “Not very restful due to control issues…”

The game’s legacy lies in its successful fusion of match-3 mechanics with narrative-driven adventure elements, influencing subsequent games in the genre to incorporate more story and varied gameplay challenges.

Conclusion

Azkend 2: The World Beneath stands as a shining example of how a seemingly niche genre can be elevated through thoughtful design, engaging storytelling, and artistic excellence. While it may not entirely escape the trappings of its match-3 roots, it offers a memorable and immersive experience that transcends expectations. Its influence on the puzzle game landscape is undeniable, making it a worthy addition to the annals of video game history.