Schwerkraft Review

Nintendo's Super Mario Galaxy is seven years old, but it's still a celebrated 3D action title. Its unique gravity-based shenanigans made for a rich gameplay experience. There's nothing like slingshotting Mario around a tiny planet. Alternatively, for players in a bad mood, there's nothing like flinging him into a black hole. Mama-mia! That's-a painful spaghettification!

Schwerkraft is a puzzle game that appears to be a bit inspired by Mario's planet-hopping shenanigans. There are major differences, however. Schwerkraft is a 2D game, not 3D, and it exists as comparatively simple gravity-based puzzler that revolves around item collection. Although it's still a pretty interesting game that forces players to learn how to master gravity. Gravity is an old, old force and it's not easily pushed around, so good luck with that.

Schwerkraft stars Max, a little orange dude that wakes up one day and suddenly notices all the stars are gone (kind of a big deal). He resolves to travel out into the great open galaxy and retrieve all the stars he possibly can.

Star-collecting involves traveling between planets and utilizing gravity's power as a system of propulsion. Players can tap planets to turn their gravity on and off, building up momentum and allowing for Max to be pulled in the necessary direction.

Schwerkraft runs on a very simple concept, but unsurprisingly it takes a lot of time to really get a feel for orchestrating gravity. Getting the hang of things rarely gets dull or frustrating, however. Though it's better to collect each level's stars as quickly as possible, Schwerkraft's uncluttered graphics and gentle soundtrack help keep the atmosphere calm and soothing.

Schwerkraft offers up a serene challenge that can be a bit repetitive and slow at times, but is ultimately worthwhile. It's a perfect way to pass the long, black, airless hours.