Discover some puzzle joy for every lifestyle
Imagine sinking into your favourite armchair or lazing on your bed after a long day, the hustle and bustle of the world fading into the background. As the soothing glow of your device lights up the room, you’re greeted with a medley of animated shapes and colours, inviting you to indulge in a moment of pure tranquillity.
Relaxing puzzle games have firmly established themselves in our hectic lives, providing a calming escape where every solved puzzle and perfectly placed piece kindles a spark of joy, creating a harmonious sense of satisfaction.
As a parent, these types of games have become my go-to because I can effortlessly pause them to attend to my children’s needs and return to them whenever I have a moment of respite.
It comes as no surprise to me when my younger Gen Z siblings dismissively say, “No, I don’t want to play your old people games.”
The upside is that I get to bond with my parents, especially my dad, as we’ve discovered our shared passion for the same types of brain-teasing games.
With so many options available, I feel that finding the perfect puzzle game can be a journey in itself. The key is to choose a game that suits your preferences and fits into your lifestyle. For those who enjoy a leisurely pace, jigsaw puzzles or colouring apps might be ideal.
If you prefer a bit more challenge, Sudoku, logic puzzles or escape room-style games could be the perfect fit. The beauty of puzzle games lies in their diversity; there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a solo challenge or a group activity.
So, let’s jump into my list of top two “old people” games.
A HUB OF HEXAGONAL HARMONY
First up is the delightful Pencil Sort – Color Sorting, a game that captivated me to the point of obsession. For a fortnight, I found myself utterly engrossed, staying up far past my bedtime, unable to resist the allure of just one more level.
Each level drew me in deeper, as I meticulously sorted colours, finding a peculiar satisfaction in the harmonious order of each completed stage.
What sets Pencil Sort apart from other puzzle games for me is its innovative approach to hexagon sorting challenges. Breaking away from the traditional flat puzzle boards, this game transports players into dynamic 3D environments where hexagon tiles can be manipulated in all directions.
As players form complete stacks, they unlock vibrant, magical pencils that add a splash of colour to the experience.
It’s got intuitive controls and a user-friendly interface, which make it easy to engage with the puzzle action. After achieving a certain amount of points, you can use that to colour in pencil-themed classic paintings too.
There’s also something about it that gives me that satisfying ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response) experience with its stacking sound and haptic effects.
I have the game on both my phone and tablet, enjoying different levels on each device. After surpassing level 250, I’ve run out of paintings to colour in, but I’m pleased to know there are still more levels to sort pencils beyond that. I’m now on level 297 on my tablet as I write this.
TILES MAGIC
Since we’re short on space, the second game I’m excited to spotlight is Tile Dynasty. It offers a nostalgic trip back to the golden age of Mahjong, with a modern twist that keeps it engaging and fresh. I remember playing a similar game in the early 2000s on my computer, but it was more of a “match two” type of game.
As you dive into Tile Dynasty, you’ll find yourself navigating a beautifully crafted board where classic Mahjong tiles are the stars of the show. The objective is elegantly simple: match three identical tiles to clear space and reveal new ones.
However, the challenge lies in the constraint of only seven tiles per move, requiring a blend of strategic foresight and tactical precision to avoid repeating levels.
Each level is a visual treat, adorned with intricate tile designs that evoke the charm of traditional Mahjong while incorporating a sleek, contemporary aesthetic, seamlessly merging classic elements with modern graphics, creating an immersive experience that feels both nostalgic and new. As you progress, you’ll encounter increasingly complex layouts that demand not just skill but also patience and perseverance.
Tile Dynasty’s blend of classic gameplay and modern mechanics makes it a standout choice for both Mahjong enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Its carefully crafted levels, combined with the thrill of strategic play, offer a delightful puzzle experience that is both challenging and rewarding.
As we wrap up our exploration of these delightful puzzle games, it’s clear that there’s a world of classic charm waiting to be rediscovered. Keep your eyes peeled for our next issue, where we’ll dive into more “old people” games that promise to captivate and charm in equal measure. – Izah Azahari
