Azada

Uncover the secrets of a missing magical book

Azada is a refreshing and unusual take on the puzzle genre. If you're tired of the same old stuff or repetitive challenges, then this is worth your time.

There is an enormous number of puzzles encompassed by the game which is why it never really gets boring. It's also been bolstered by some excellent sound effects and soundtracks that keep the game lively and fun. For a puzzle game, the graphics are also surprisingly good. There are around 40 different puzzles to choose from that are all interlinked through a narrative concerning the secrets contained in an old ancient text.

The narrative is that you are trapped in a cell and you can't escape and find the book until you solve the puzzles. The puzzles usually contain cryptic challenges involving objects in the room you are held - smashing vases to reveal other secrets, solving conundrums and working out riddles to reveal another part of the mystery. Then there are more traditional challenges such as jigsaws and memory tests.

Although Azada isn't an adventure game, it is a combination of the overall mystery narrative and the variation of games that really keep you going. Beware though that some of the puzzles are so tough, you'll be tearing your hair out before long.

A superb blend of mystery and challenging mind benders make this a puzzlers heaven.