Gameplay
If you have ever played Pipe Dreams or enjoyed a puzzle game like Hexic, then you are going to love Droplitz, from Blitz Games. The game pits you against several Droplitz of liquid that must navigate their way through a grid of various pipes. It's up to you to create as many paths as physically possible with the layout randomly generated by the game. The configuration can be changed throughout each sitting when purple Droplitz make their way to the bottom of the grid. This mechanic can grow your multiplier, which is key to unlocking further levels and modes. When you run out of Droplitz, the game is over. This is where the frustration of the game comes in. I wish there was more of a visual or audio cue to let the player know of their impending doom.

To slow the mental exhaustion of the player, the developers have included four modes in Droplitz. Classic mode pits the player against a rapid increase in speed. Depending on your score when the Droplitz are depleted, you can unlock the more difficult, larger levels. The 9 possible levels can be unlocked through various scores, starting at 125,000 (which is no small feat) to over 300,000 (which is very, very, very difficult). Zendurance mode, gives you freedom in the largest of all levels with a slow, steady pace. Zen mode keeps your frustration low and you calmness high. Power up allows you to use various items (including bombs) to keep the Droplitz flowing. The last mode, Infection, forces you to try and get certain Droplitz through your path at various speeds. The modes aren’t drastically different and are locked until you reach various high scores in the previous mode. This is very annoying because you are paying ten dollars for one mode, unless you are a very good player. I totally disagree with this mechanic and it can turn off more casual puzzle players.

Graphics and Audio:
If you were passing by a game store and saw this game in the window, you would not be blown away by the graphics, but they are quite good for an XBLA game. The color palette is mixed and solid, which gives the game a very calming feeling. Depending on how you play games, this can be a troublesome aspect of the game because you need to be very focused while playing. I know that the underrated part of Droplitz is the music. The trance and soothing electronic tunes are generic, but perfect for a game of this type and magnitude. Unless you are a graphics nut, then Droplitz will not disappoint in this department and can add to the experience if you just want to relax and not be tense.

Online Capabilities:
Droplitz does have online leaderboards, which challenges players need to beat scores from their friends and other gamers around the world. Some reviewers might say that the lack of multiplayer is a fault, but I would infer that this game in no way needs multiplayer at all. I can’t even imagine any fun or intuitive way to include it.

Conclusion:
Xbox Live Arcade games have grown in scope and quality in recent years and Droplitz is an example one of those titles. For 800 Microsoft Points ($10), you get a challenging, fun and expansive puzzle experience, which isn't without its frustrating moments. The inclusion of online leaderboards and various modes are excellent for a ten dollar game, but the developers should have kept everything unlocked from the start. If you are a fan of puzzle games, or a Pipe Dream fan, you'll definitely enjoy Droplitz.

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