Tidalis

Arcen Games

Rank: #6 / 7
Released: 2010
Studio: Arcen Games
Genre: puzzle video game

At a glance

Tidalis is a block-based puzzle game from Arcen Games, built around blocks with colors and arrow directions. Blocks fall onto a board, and a stack that rises above the board means losing. To clear blocks, players draw paths through the arrows to create chains of matching colors. The game lists 20 modes, dozens of special blocks and items, and 115 levels in its adventure mode. Its modes include co-op and competitive multiplayer, both online and offline, as well as action-oriented play and timer-less brainteasers. Steam features include single-player, multiplayer, co-op, online and LAN co-op, shared or split screen, cross-platform multiplayer, a level editor and Remote Play Together. Tidalis released in 2010, with the Steam release dated July 16, 2010. It is listed for Windows, macOS and Linux.

Who it is for

It suits puzzle players who want a chain-building mechanic with a range of modes, including brainteasers and action-oriented play. Its co-op and competitive options also suit people looking to play with others online or locally.

What is good

Twenty game modes are listed
Adventure mode has 115 levels
Online, LAN and split-screen play supported
Includes a level editor

What to know first

Blocks overflowing the board means losing
The core mechanic requires drawing paths through arrows

Verdict

Tidalis builds its puzzle play around chaining matching colors through directional blocks. Its listed modes and multiplayer options offer several ways to engage with that mechanic.