As the player completes levels and racks up points, they will improve their "treasure hunter rank," which seems to have no effect on the proceedings, save satisfaction in the knowledge that one is progressing.
In addition to the main quest mode of the game (the rebuilding of El Dorado), there is also an arcade mode, which has the player solve an ever-shifting puzzle in order to uncover enough gems within the time limit to move on to the next level. It is only in arcade mode that the time limit ever becomes a real factor, and that is only at high levels. Consequently, the arcade mode, unlike quest mode, has a sense of endless pointlessness to it.
The graphics, while not cutting edge, need not be - they are bright, pretty and more than suffice in attracting the player. The music, too, is nice and airy. In fact, everything about the game practically screams, "oh come on, just play one more level… it'll only take a minute."
As with many a puzzle game, Gemsweeper keeps everything nice, simple and low-key. It never quite gets complicated or intricate enough in its levels to be truly difficult, and while that may distress some, it will keep the casual player involved for a longer period.
Gemsweeper does not have an ESRB rating, but contains no violence, graphic depictions of any sort, or foul language.
Article comments
1 - Mel
Great game. Downloaded the full version in the end because I had to keep going!
2 - Sasuke
Way too addictive. Love it.