Dweep
a game by | Dexterity Software |
Platform: | PC |
Editor Rating: | 6/10, based on 1 review |
User Rating: | 8.3/10 - 6 votes |
Rate this game: | |
See also: | Puzzle Games |
Overview
Every now and then you run across a game that you never expected to like, and suddenly you're captivated. First of all, I'm not a big puzzle game fan, and my experiences with shareware haven't been overwhelmingly positive. Then Dweep came along. Somewhat reminiscent of The Incredible Machine, Dweep is funny, clever and more than slightly addictive.
Gameplay, Controls, Interface
Dweep is a fuzzy purple critter who only wants to make it past the bombs, laser beams, mountains and other dangerous terrain to rescue his babies. You have to help him using the various tools available on each level. A mirror can deflect a laser beam, a torch can thaw a frozen Dweep. There are also a number of interesting interactions among the various terrain elements. If Dweep steps on a freeze plate, he is frozen until you thaw him with a torch or hammer; however, once thawed he remains wet, letting him step on a heat plate or walk though a laser beam without harm. Stepping onto a heat plate while dry makes Dweep float up like a balloon, rendering him immobile unless a handy fan blows him somewhere, like over a laser beam or other obstacle. The puzzles in Dweep are well designed and several have multiple solutions.
Graphics
The graphics in Dweep are cartoonish as befits this type of game. While not awe-inspiring, I'd have to say they are much better than what's available in most shareware games and many published games as well.
Audio
The sound effects are cute and cartoonish, especially the squelching noise the wet Dweep makes when he bounces. The music also fits the theme of the game, although after hearing each selection several times I was ready to turn the music off.
System Requirements
Microsoft Windows 95/98/2000/NT4.0 or better, DirectX 5.0 or better, Pentium 90mhz or better, 16 MB RAM, 3 MB hard drive space, DirectX-compatible 16-bit video card (65,000+ colors at 640x480), DirectX-compatible sound card, Microsoft-compatible mouse
Bottom Line
Dweep surpasses expectations and is well worth the $9.95 price of admission. You can download the shareware version and try 10 levels of Dweep for free. The thing about Dweep that impressed me the most was the thoughtful design of the game, not just the levels. Instead of being content with a few items and obstacles that do the same thing all the time, most tools have multiple uses, and even the obstacles have secondary effects that can be useful.
There is no undo feature in Dweep which encourages thoughtful play; however, while you're trying to think, there's Dweep bouncing away, bouncing, bouncing, bouncing. It's more of a motivator to get you to do something than if there was a clock ticking away. If you get stuck, the Dexterity website has a list of hints for each level and if that doesn't get you moving, they also provide complete solutions. While Dweep may not be for everyone, I encourage you to give it a try; if you like it, support the creation of more products like Dweep by registering the game.
Download Dweep
System requirements:
- PC compatible
- Operating systems: Windows 10/Windows 8/Windows 7/2000/Vista/WinXP