Let’s talk about Sliding Seas, a match-3 puzzle game developed by Mugshot Games Pty Ltd. They call it “the cutest and most relaxing match-3 puzzle game on mobile!” Bold claim, right? I couldn’t resist checking it out.
When it comes to match-3 games, classics like Candy Crush, Bejeweled, and Royal Match might come to mind instantly. But Sliding Seas brings its own unique vibe to the table. It’s not just about matching tiles—you’re rescuing shipwrecked survivors, building islands, and creating your own tropical paradise along the way.
In this review, I’ll explore what makes Sliding Seas fun, relaxing, and a fresh take on the match-3 genre. Let’s see if it can hold its ground against the giants of the match-3 world.
Why It’s Different
Okay, so the coolest thing about Sliding Seas is the whole “matching water” idea. You’re working with these blue tiles that are different shades (which, let’s be real, can be hard to tell apart sometimes). Thankfully, there’s an option to turn on numbers that make it super clear which shade is which. Same shades, same numbers—it’s such a small but thoughtful detail, and it makes the game so much easier to play.
The Little Things That Make It Fun
Awesome Power-ups
One of my favorite parts is the power-ups. There’s dynamite that lets you blow up tiles, which is honestly so satisfying. It’s not just about matching—you get to feel like you’re actually strategizing and making big moves when you’re stuck.
Random VIPs
Oh, and let’s talk about the VIPs. These little guys pop up randomly during games, and if you collect them all, you get some pretty sweet rewards. Some of them even give you missions—like, “Hey, do this within a certain time for an even better prize.” And the best part? They have their own buildings on the island. It’s a fun little addition that makes the levels feel less repetitive.
Crates and Strategies
Besides just saving survivors, you’ll also see crates scattered around in some levels. Breaking them gives you rewards, but it’s not always straightforward—you’ve gotta plan your moves carefully to make sure you clear them all within the turn limit. It’s a fun challenge without being overly stressful.
Building Your Island
This is where the game gets really addicting. After you rescue survivors, they come back to your island, which slowly grows into this cute little community. You can add buildings, decorations, and make the place feel alive. It’s kind of satisfying to see everything you’ve done come together. Like, you’re not just playing puzzles; you’re building something.
Comparison to Royal Match
If you’ve played Royal Match, you’ll notice a few key differences. Sliding Seas feels way more laid-back. You’re a mayor here, building up an island, whereas Royal Match has you saving a king in a full-on royal kingdom. The plot in Sliding Seas is pretty simple—no big twists or intense nightmare events like in Royal Match. It’s more about relaxing and going at your own pace. I mean, sometimes you just want a game that doesn’t stress you out, right? That said, to keep players engaged over time, it’ll need to add more and more levels with regular updates.
Why I’m Hooked
- It’s just fun. The combination of puzzles, VIPs, crates, and building your island keeps things interesting.
- It’s relaxing but not boring. I can play a few levels when I have time, or I can binge it when I’m in the mood.
- The game doesn’t overwhelm you. I love how it gives you options like the number system for shades of blue—it’s inclusive and thoughtful.
What Could Be Better
If I had to nitpick, I’d say the game can feel a bit boring at times. The vibe is relaxing, but it could use some special events or a more engaging storyline to add excitement. Once you figure out the strategies for clearing crates or saving survivors, the gameplay can become repetitive. That said, it’s still great for what it is—a casual and laid-back experience.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Sliding Seas presents itself as a lighthearted and enjoyable game, ideal for casual players looking for a relaxing yet engaging match-3 experience. The balance between puzzle-solving, building mechanics, and rewards makes it worth a try!
Have you tried conquering the challenges in Sliding Seas? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback in the comments or drop me an email at [email protected].