Atomica, like other good turn-based puzzle games, makes you feel like you're always going against the clock--even though there isn't any clock. Jamdat's simple game is intense, fun, and, most importantly, addictive.
In Atomica, you move balls, called atoms, one at a time across a checkerboard. Matching like-colored atoms into 2x2 patterns called molecules eliminates them and adds energy to your power meter. Filling the meter completes the level, but each move adds more atoms to the board, blocking potential matches and risking a board overflow that'll end the game.
The strategy comes from the game actually telling you where the next set of atoms will appear. For instance, seeing a "yellow atom appearing" icon pop up may prompt you to move other yellow atoms to the area or to block the upcoming atom by placing another one on top.
If things get too hairy, Atomica gives you a limited-use nuclear bomb that will destroy most of the atoms on the board. Bomb usage increases as your score goes higher.
Atomica's scoring system is its coolest feature. Basic molecules give basic points, but combinations are rewarded handsomely. Combos are given names like "Mega Combo," "Super Combo," and "Hyper Combo." There may be a "Super Duper Combo," but I didn't reach it.
The graphics and sound are just what you'd expect from a puzzle game (read: boring), but Jamdat is to be commended for creating a frightening nuclear bomb experience when you press the big red button.
Among the numerous bland puzzlers on the cell, Atomica stands out as a very fun and original title. Recommended.
