News, Reviews, Previews, Editorials, and more @ GamingEvolution

Published By: Sony Online Entertainment
Developed By: PopCap Games
Genre: Puzzle
Players: 1-2
Rated: E (Everyone)
Release Date: January 29, 2009
Screenshots: Link
Price: $9.99
Written By: Matthew Prunty

February 25, 2009 - Whether it�s on a videogame console, computer or a cell phone, Bejeweled is one of the premier titles that help to put casual gaming on the map. Though not the first of its kind, Bejeweled was able to influence countless millions around the world to look at videogames as more than a genre full of sex, violence and adult language. With the launching of Bejeweled 2, gamers and non-gamers were introduce to the same addicting action of the first install, but with four additional modes and unique ways of destroying gems.

Realizing the huge popularity of Bejeweled and Bejeweled 2, PopCap Games decided to expand their support base even further with the release of Bejeweled 2 via the PlayStation Network. While there isn�t much of a change as the title made its way to the PlayStation 3 console, it still features its addictive gameplay and will continue to challenge players via its variety of gameplay modes. When you start out in the game, you only have access to four of the eight gameplay modes. These modes include Classic, Arcade, Puzzle and Endless. The Classic and Arcade modes are virtually the same, only difference being that within arcade, you are playing against the clock. Within Puzzle mode, you must solve a variety of puzzles in order to clear all the gems from the given board. With Endless, the only way to end this game is for you to quit. There is no �No More Moves� or a clock to play against.

Bejeweled 2 looks exactly as it does on any other platform, with the only difference being that the game was put through a high definition filter. The landscape backdrops are nicely detail and bright, especially playing on an HDTV. The gems are bright and very reflective. The special effects are solid, still offering up the same great quality of previous versions. All around, there is nothing negative you can say about the visuals. The audio tracks are very solid, offering up a techno vibe, which can become catchy if you play the game enough. The voice-over is simplistic and can be repetitive if you play the game long enough.

Unlike you typical shooters, fighting, racing games, casual game rarely ever get an overhaul, which is sometimes a good thing. The purity of Bejeweled 2 has survived its many incarnations, and continues to wow gamers and get them hook on its addicting gameplay. For those looking for a puzzle title they can easily hop into, this is their game. When you have this game on your cell phone and computer, the next logical step is to have this game on your videogame console. For $9.99, it�s much cheaper than its PC counterpart and looks so much better.

7.5/10

Spread The Word...