The viral puzzle sensation Suika Game, which captivated the gaming world in 2023, has returned with an ambitious sequel: Suika Game Planet. This follow-up revitalizes the addictive formula by introducing revamped physics and a cosmic theme. While the fundamental objective remains unchanged—merging smaller fruits to eventually cultivate a massive watermelon—the traditional fruit-basket setting has been jettisoned in favor of an intergalactic, circular stage governed by orbital gravity.
In this iteration, players launch fruit from any angle around a 360-degree field of play. This shift from vertical stacking to planetary accumulation is the sequel’s defining characteristic, fundamentally altering established strategies. Veterans who mastered the nuances of the original’s container physics will find themselves back at square one, navigating an entirely new set of spatial challenges.
The stakes have also evolved. Rather than monitoring a “fill line” at the top of a box, players must now ensure no fruit drifts beyond the planet’s atmospheric boundary. While the perimeter offers a slight degree of elasticity, any fruit that protrudes too far results in an immediate game over. The movement feels distinct; fruits drift toward the center of the planet, and larger evolutions appear to exert a stronger gravitational pull, occasionally triggering catastrophic shifts in the stack. Success now requires managing both fruit combinations and a volatile gravitational field.
A notable addition to the mechanics is “Super Evolution,” a high-octane bonus mode triggered by filling a dedicated meter. During this window, players are encouraged to chain matches as rapidly as possible to maximize their score. It is a clever inclusion that injects a sense of urgency into a typically methodical genre, though it remains optional for those who prefer a slower, more calculated approach.
Despite its undeniable charm, Suika Game Planet isn’t without its minor frustrations. The control scheme feels somewhat archaic given the circular environment; while instinct suggests using the analog stick to rotate around the planet, the game relies on standard left-and-right inputs. This lack of intuitive mapping can lead to costly errors when players accidentally move in the opposite direction of their intended target.
Furthermore, the multiplayer suite is currently limited. There is no native online matchmaking, with the game instead relying on local GameShare for a basic cooperative mode. Given that the predecessor eventually received multiplayer functionality via paid DLC, it is possible that Planet will expand its social features in the future.
Retailing at approximately $3.75 for the Nintendo Switch 2 and $2.99 for the original Switch hardware, Suika Game Planet is an exceptional value. Whether you are a returning fan or a newcomer to the “melon game” craze, this sequel offers a fresh, enrapturing experience that more than justifies its modest price tag.
Source: Polygon
