Thank you Lightwood Games for sending us this game to review!

Lightwood Games specializes in puzzle games and we have previously reviewed their Sudoku and Word Find titles. Pic-A-Pix Color is available on both the 3DS and Wii U. I opted to play the 3DS version for its portability and convenience. The puzzles in this title are designed by Conceptis ltd.

If you’re familiar with Picross, Nonogram, Griddlers, or Hanjie puzzles then you’ll know how to play this game. If you’re new to this style of puzzle games you’ll quickly learn that the concept is simple but mastering it takes some time. The goal is to fill in the correct pixels using the vertical and horizontal clues provided. As the title states, the one-hundred and fifty puzzles in this game are in color.

Since I haven’t played Picross, this was a relatively new experience for me. I like how the puzzles start off with easier 5x5 grids and gradually move up to 10X10, 15X15, 20X15, and then 20X20. Make sure you're wearing your glasses if needed for the 20X20 puzzles as the 3DS’ screen is at its limit there.

Not only does the complexity change, but the number of colors used do so as well. You’re given the number of colored pixels to use in each row and column, but figuring out the placement is on you. If you want to double check your work, you can use the magnifying glass icon to point out any errors. If any mistakes are found, you can have the game automatically remove them, but this will remove the option for a gold medal upon completion. The time spent solving the puzzle is recorded if you want to try and beat your previous performance.

When the correct pixels are filled in, the clues are usually blanked out as a result. This doesn’t happen on all of the puzzles though and the developer is aware of this and hopes to rectify it in the future. Other than that minor glitch, I experienced no problems playing this game.

Since we’re working with pixel art, don’t expect the finished puzzles to look photorealistic. The less your hopes are, the better. Upon completion, the solved puzzles do resemble what they’re supposed to. The background music fits into the retro theme with its chiptune style.

Pic-A-Pix Color is very fun and it’s a great game to pick up and play anytime. If the one-hundred and fifty puzzles are not enough you can buy more packs for $1.99 apiece. The packs are sold in bundles that feature a variety of set sizes and includes an additional 30-45 puzzles for the reasonable asking price. Be sure to lock down your 3DS’ eShop access before letting a child play this title.