"NumWorlds: Black Pug Studios' First 3D Puzzle Game Debuts"

It's not often that we get pitched a debut release, or at least not as often as I'd like. This is what makes Black Pug Studios' debut, NumWorlds, such an interesting thing to see. But what exactly is it all about? And is this newly-released iOS and Android number-matching puzzler worth a go? Let's dig in!

I've said it before, but NumWorlds is an excellent example of a simple core mechanic for a puzzler. In it, you need to connect adjacent numbers on a grid to reach a target number; you'll move from simple single-digit targets to even higher ones, and a correspondingly larger grid which you'll need to link together.

But it's not just the core mechanic that makes NumWorlds attractive to players! Just take a glance at those lush, Unreal-engine 3D environments, and you can see why Black Pug Studios are so eager to get it in front of players. Add onto that various additional mechanics such as blockers and gold blocks, and there's plenty to enjoy in NumWorlds.

Add it up

I can see NumWorlds being a success, mainly because it combines some simple-to-learn but hard-to-master gameplay with a fairly gorgeous visual palette. You can also continue to decorate your blocks with new cosmetics, but I think what the real test will be is whether the bevvy of updates and additional content that Black Pug Studios have in the works will keep it fresh in the years to come.

Speaking of puzzlers though, NumWorlds does have stiff competition on mobile from a vibrant and full-to-the-gills genre! Don't believe me? Why not dig into our comprehensive list of the top 25 best puzzle games on iOS and Android and find out how we've ranked everything from brain-busting challenges to more arcadey brain-teasers that you can play right now?