Time to get wrapped up in a new puzzler with Zen Bound 2 on the PC! Pun me perfect!
The Concept
In order to obtain a zen state, you must colour in various shapes by wrapping rope around them that colours as it goes.
The Gameplay
In essence the concept is the gameplay. You hold the mouse button and drag the rope around which comes from the bottom of the screen. Additional nails are used strategically to wrap the rope around too and the more complex the shape, the more difficult it becomes to paint it because doubling back over previous rope means you’re not in contact with the shape and therefore not painting it. It’s a very strange concept to explain but basically, cover as much surface as possible and you should be ok. You’re given marks on how much surface you’ve covered with 70% being the minimum benchmark to aim for. In addition some levels require you to wrap the rope around ink bombs and these cause more of a challenge because you need to preplan your route around the object to reach them all. Add in limited rope and you’ve got yourself a subtle headscratcher!
The Graphics
While the games graphics are functional, nothing exciting is here bar the nice zen tree menus.
The Sound
Something of a surprise is the beautiful soundtrack. Much like a medative sanctuary, the music ebbs and flows from composer Ghost Monkey and is barely interrupted by any sound effects. The result is a peaceful notion that doesn’t intrude on the slow gameplay.
RePlay Factor
Zen Bound 2 has just over 100 levels which you can access by gaining higher percentage passes on the previous levels. The replay factor is down to wether or not you want to try and 100& all the levels or not. There’s no leaderboards for time trials, its just you vs the level.
Positives
~Abstract game experience
~Great dip in and out gameplay
Negatives
~Sometimes the manipulation of the rope is awkard if you’re not using a mouse!
~May be too abstract or unsatisfying for some
Conclusion
Zen Bound 2 certainly isn’t for everyone however those who enjoy a slow burning puzzler where you can take your time and plan each move you make, much like a solitaire game of chess, will enjoy painting blocks of wood for hours to come.