Four months after the launch of PICROSS e on the Nintendo eShop, Kyoto-based studio Jupiter returned with a direct sequel: PICROSS e2.
Released for the Nintendo 3DS, PICROSS e2 builds on the legacy of the popular nonogram puzzle franchise, offering a fresh batch of logic challenges for fans and newcomers alike. Originating as Mario’s Picross on the Game Boy in 1995, the Picross series has experienced numerous iterations across Nintendo platforms, but its core gameplay has remained consistent.
At its foundation, PICROSS e2 is a 'picture-crossword' puzzle game.
Players are tasked with filling in squares on a grid, using numeric clues found above columns and beside rows to determine which squares to mark.
These hints guide the creation of pixel art images, progressively revealed as players solve each puzzle. The game’s touch controls allow players to methodically select tiles, with the upper screen gradually unveiling vibrant pixel illustrations.
Subjects range from household objects and animals to more abstract designs, keeping the experience visually engaging.
Puzzle sizes ramp up in complexity, starting from straightforward 5×5 grids and reaching up to massive 80×80 puzzles in the standalone Micross mode.
This escalation not only delights seasoned solvers but also keeps the gameplay fresh. Strategic thinking is a must, as correct completion within 60 minutes earns players a colorized version of the illustration, while mistakes will cost precious time.
Every error made adds to the clock—sometimes in increments as significant as eight minutes.
As a result, careful analysis and patience are crucial to success. For those in need of assistance, PICROSS e2 features an optional 'Navigation' hint system.
This tool highlights relevant numbers around the grid, greying them out once correctly completed.
However, some puzzles restrict its use, challenging those seeking a tougher experience to rely solely on their deductive skills.
Additionally, Free Mode lets players experiment without penalties, but it won't flag mistakes—placing the responsibility for accuracy back on the player. The standout feature of PICROSS e2 is the introduction of Micross mode.
In this new addition, players piece together a monumental 80×80 image by solving multiple 10×10 puzzles.
These larger art pieces draw inspiration from renowned painters such as Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, Jean-François Millet, Rembrandt, and Diego Velázquez, offering a satisfying and ambitious goal. Despite the sizable addition of new content—over 150 puzzles in total—PICROSS e2 sticks closely to the series' proven formula.
Fans will appreciate the challenge and longevity, but there is a sense that innovation may soon be necessary to keep the series moving forward. Jupiter’s attention to detail and enduring commitment to accessible, enjoyable gameplay is once again evident in PICROSS e2.
Available exclusively on the Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS, PICROSS e2 is a solid entry for puzzle enthusiasts and anyone eager for hours of logical entertainment.
Released for the Nintendo 3DS, PICROSS e2 builds on the legacy of the popular nonogram puzzle franchise, offering a fresh batch of logic challenges for fans and newcomers alike. Originating as Mario’s Picross on the Game Boy in 1995, the Picross series has experienced numerous iterations across Nintendo platforms, but its core gameplay has remained consistent.
At its foundation, PICROSS e2 is a 'picture-crossword' puzzle game.
Players are tasked with filling in squares on a grid, using numeric clues found above columns and beside rows to determine which squares to mark.
These hints guide the creation of pixel art images, progressively revealed as players solve each puzzle. The game’s touch controls allow players to methodically select tiles, with the upper screen gradually unveiling vibrant pixel illustrations.
Subjects range from household objects and animals to more abstract designs, keeping the experience visually engaging.
Puzzle sizes ramp up in complexity, starting from straightforward 5×5 grids and reaching up to massive 80×80 puzzles in the standalone Micross mode.
This escalation not only delights seasoned solvers but also keeps the gameplay fresh. Strategic thinking is a must, as correct completion within 60 minutes earns players a colorized version of the illustration, while mistakes will cost precious time.
Every error made adds to the clock—sometimes in increments as significant as eight minutes.
As a result, careful analysis and patience are crucial to success. For those in need of assistance, PICROSS e2 features an optional 'Navigation' hint system.
This tool highlights relevant numbers around the grid, greying them out once correctly completed.
However, some puzzles restrict its use, challenging those seeking a tougher experience to rely solely on their deductive skills.
Additionally, Free Mode lets players experiment without penalties, but it won't flag mistakes—placing the responsibility for accuracy back on the player. The standout feature of PICROSS e2 is the introduction of Micross mode.
In this new addition, players piece together a monumental 80×80 image by solving multiple 10×10 puzzles.
These larger art pieces draw inspiration from renowned painters such as Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, Jean-François Millet, Rembrandt, and Diego Velázquez, offering a satisfying and ambitious goal. Despite the sizable addition of new content—over 150 puzzles in total—PICROSS e2 sticks closely to the series' proven formula.
Fans will appreciate the challenge and longevity, but there is a sense that innovation may soon be necessary to keep the series moving forward. Jupiter’s attention to detail and enduring commitment to accessible, enjoyable gameplay is once again evident in PICROSS e2.
Available exclusively on the Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS, PICROSS e2 is a solid entry for puzzle enthusiasts and anyone eager for hours of logical entertainment.
