A game about “Puzzles, balls and contraptions”, Perchang draws inspiration from the machines of Rube Goldberg, automatically making it an intriguing eShop release to me.

While the Nintendo Switch has no shortage of puzzle titles, there’s not nearly enough (if any) games like this on the hybrid, with complex contraptions accomplishing simple tasks. Manipulating machinery to get balls from one point to another is entertaining, thanks to the obstacles and the way they’re controlled.

Parts that you can maneuver are colored red and blue, with each controlled by different buttons. You’ll rarely need an indication on how to finish a level – the ball goal is almost always visible. Rather, it’s a question of timing, figuring out which colors to hit at certain points. Although it can be quite challenging, trust me, it all clicks with the controller in hand. And there’s more than one way to beat many levels, leading to some eureka moments.

Speaking of, while this game’s advertised as one player only, the setup makes it surprisingly ideal for unforeseen co-op. Each player can have their own Joy-Con corresponding to either the red or the blue parts. Don’t worry about this making the proceedings too easy, as you’ll need to communicate well, strategize as a team, and synch your timing. Developer Chilled Mouse might consider advertising Perchang (or future sequels) with optional co-op in mind.

While good fun, a few adjustments could make Perchang great. Visually, while this game has a nice sheen, the basic backgrounds are just plain white. A splash of color and a bit of comical detail here or there would enhance over the course of 50 levels without being distracting. Also, some player choices for less linearity, or clock options, could lessen potential frustration. 

Lastly, there seems to be the occasional inconsistency with the balls. Seeing some of them roll off the side for no apparent reason wasn’t enough to stop us playing, but it is worth a mention. I’d like to see general reactions feel a bit more consistent and tight, whether shooting balls from a canon, flinging them with a flipper, or just watching them drop.

Perchang

With its simple-to-grasp, challenging-to-master gameplay, Perchang held our attention through to the last of its 50 main levels. It has a satisfying length, offering a fair amount of content without overstaying its welcome. Finishing a level with just a Bronze medal (or worse, a Pass) also prompts some replay. Perchang manages to stand out amongst the puzzle crowd on Nintendo Switch and I hope it’s a sign of more Goldbergian puzzlers to come.

Perchang