Introduction

In 2017, Playrix, the creators of the popular Gardenscapes, brought another delightful entry to the match-3 puzzle game market with Homescapes. The game is a vibrant fusion of engaging storytelling and challenging puzzles. Players embark on a nostalgic journey with Austin the Butler, who makes a triumphant return from Gardenscapes. After a long stay away, Austin returns to his parents’ mansion, only to discover it in a dilapidated state. Players are tasked with restoring the mansion to its former glory, room by room.

At its core, Homescapes is a match-3 game, similar to Candy Crush and Bejeweled. Players need to swap and match pieces in a grid to complete the objectives within a set number of moves. Completing these levels grants players stars which can then be used to progress through the narrative and renovate the home. But it’s not just a simple puzzle game. Interwoven with its match-3 mechanics are interactive storytelling elements that allow players to make choices about the house’s décor, which introduces a sense of ownership and creativity to the game.

Pros and Cons

√ Unlike many match-3 games, Homescapes weaves a story that gives context to the puzzles, enhancing engagement.

√ Players can decide on the house’s aesthetics, making the game more personalized.

√ Playrix often introduces new events and features, keeping the content fresh.

√ Austin and his quirky neighbors bring a warmth and humor to the game.

√ The art style is vibrant and pleasing, making every renovation truly satisfying.

× Some levels feel unbalanced and can be frustratingly hard.

× As with many costless games, in-app purchases can become tempting when stuck.

× Core mechanics might feel redundant after playing for prolonged periods.

× Running out of lives can halt progress unless players wait or pay.

× Occasional bugs and glitches, especially during updates.

Review

Upon playing Homescapes, the first aspect that grabbed my attention was its immersive storytelling. It’s not every day that you find a puzzle game where the challenges have context. Austin’s interactions with his parents, the affectionate bond they share, and the house’s memories felt genuinely touching.

The match-3 mechanics are familiar but infused with unique twists. Power-ups, combo boosters, and varied objectives ensure that every level feels different. However, the game isn’t without its challenges. Some levels took multiple tries to overcome, leading to moments of frustration. This is where the in-app purchases become particularly tempting, especially when running out of lives. But with patience, it’s feasible to progress without spending.

Moreover, there is no doubt that the renovation part of the game is sheer joy. Every time a room is completed, there is a pronounced sense of accomplishment. I found myself invested in selecting the best wallpaper, furniture, and fixtures. The ability to redesign previously renovated sections ensures that if you change your mind about the décor later on, you’re not locked in. This flexibility makes the game more interactive and enjoyable.

Not only that, but the character interactions in the game add to its charm. I found myself chuckling at Austin’s interactions with his mischievous pet cat, or his playful banters with his neighbors. These narrative sections break the monotony and give players a breather from the sometimes intense puzzles.

However, the game does have its drawbacks. Over time, the match-3 mechanics can feel a bit repetitive. The difficulty spike in some levels feels less like a challenge and more like a blockade, particularly if you are trying to progress without making any in-app purchases. The game, while generous initially with its lives and power-ups, does get stingier as you move forward. There were times when connectivity issues surfaced, causing minor interruptions.

In conclusion, while Homescapes navigates the typical terrain of match-3 games, it adds layers of narrative depth, character development, and interactive renovations that set it apart. With regular updates and fresh content, it remains a delightful escape for players seeking a blend of storytelling and puzzles.