Massively

Mini-games

A still-frustratingly rare element in Massively Multiplayer games, micro-gaming experiences are still incredibly powerful. Three Rings' Puzzle Pirates is probably the best known game chok-a-bloc with the pleasant sounds of disappearing rows and columns, but it's far from the only one. The crafting mini-game in EverQuest 2 is considerably less enjoyable than Bejweled clones on the open seas, but it definitely counts ... and it has gotten a good deal better over the years. And, of course, the pictured 'pipes' puzzle in Dungeons and Dragons Online is just one of the clever traps they have you unlocking in your travels through Eberron. This is definitely one of those features that needs to gain more acceptance with designers; through games like Free Realms and The Agency, we're sure to see more of mini-massively gaming in the next few years.

Dungeons and Dragons Online

12/03/08