Tappingo was an enjoyable puzzle game released earlier in the year, and this newly launched sequel looks to continue things.  It is more of the same, but is that bad?  Not when it’s as fun and polished as this picross variant is.

As you try to complete the retro inspired pixel art puzzles, you’ll appreciate the vivid graphics Tappingo 2 displays.  Puzzles based on Nintendo hardware have returned, and are once again a treat.  Even better are those new ones based around characters from other video games.  Seeing Maxwell from Mutant Mudds or Ace from Ace Mathician spin around in 3D is cool!

Tappingo 2 has some pleasant music.  While I prefer the original tunes a bit more, these new ones are of comparable high quality.  The game still lacks a music player, but the tracks are enjoyable to listen to while working on puzzles.  Options to turn both the  music and sound effects off have been added this time, which are nice though probably unnecessary – these tunes are meant to be heard and enjoyed.

The first Tappingo had many small grids, which were cramped for larger sized puzzles– I suggested playing on an XL to compensate.  Apparently others also noted the size concern, as it’s been addressed through a zoom function.  This is one of the biggest additions to the sequel , and it’s helpful and appreciated!  It certainly makes control easier, although I did instinctively reach for the circle pad to scan around, which serves no function – it’s d-pad only.  The game still lacks an undo button as well.

Like its predecessor, Tappingo 2 says “challenge your friends”, but offers no leaderboards.  I’d settle for something as routine as multiple profiles, or the means to enter initials.  The game only records a single completion time for each puzzle.  This was an area of concern with the first game, and I’m quite surprised it hasn’t been addressed at all.  If you’re looking for a game primarily to “challenge your friends” with you may want to keep looking – Tappingo is a very good game, but only for solo players.

Tappingo 2 has stuck with what worked; a continuation with a couple welcomed tweaks.  While the ball was dropped for playing with friends, the zoom feature and puzzles based on other games are sizable improvements.  I recommended the original, and I recommend this sequel – Tappingo 2 is good fun! At just $2.99, it should be considered an essential purchase for puzzle fans.