Energy Cycle Edge | Switch Review

January 16, 2019 Kristina Flores

When I first stumbled on Energy Cycle Edge by the developer and publisher, Sometimes You, I was looking for a casual puzzler and brain teaser. I was unaware this was a sequel to their previous title, Energy Cycle, therefore unfamiliar with the gameplay mechanics. When I started playing the game, I noticed immediately the lack of tutorials, scarce menu settings, and zero direction as to what was required to complete each level. At first, I didn’t let that intimidate me.

A Lesson in Frustration

The game looks deceptively simple. You start with a 2D layout of multicolored crystal-like dots arranged into a pattern. You can rotate the plane by using LB and RB, and when you activate the dots, the selected dot and their connected dots change color. Eventually, I figured out the goal is to make all the dots the same color. After a few levels, frustrations were gaining. I would manage to change all the dots but one or two and find myself exiting the level so I could start over again. Chris Behrensmeyer, another member of The GO Crew, decided to play the game with me, and his description is perfect. He explains, “it’s almost like picking up a Rubik’s cube for the first time that’s already scrambled, having no instruction or assistance on how to solve it.”

As you progress through the levels, you will start to notice the patterns just in time for the next drastic increase in difficulty. There are 44 levels in total, and by the end the dots are arranged in 3D patterns. The rotating mechanic becomes crucial, yet overly frustrating. Despite the complexity of the levels, the graphics remain simple. The music is calming, you could say electronically ethereal. The music does help the player focus, yet it is only a matter of time before you become brain fatigued. Neither of us could play the game for much more than an hour at a time before walking away.

Energy Cycle Edge Final Verdict

Overall, it seems as though Energy Cycle Edge was developed with a very niche audience in mind. This is far more complex than your everyday brain teaser. Players with great spatial recognition and advanced chess skills will probably find some satisfaction. Even though I probably won’t go back for more, I know Chris will keep coming back from time to time.

This review is based on a Nintendo Switch copy provided by Evolve PR for coverage purposes and is also available on Xbox One, PS4, and Vita.