FiZZ Extended (fleischgemuese) €14+
Game title: FiZZ Extended
Game description: FiZZ Extended is a gravity-based platform puzzler that expands upon the mechanics of the original title. The gameplay centers on the player's ability to switch gravity in four different directions to navigate a series of wrap-around screens. In this environment, exiting the screen in any direction—left, right, top, or bottom—causes the character to reappear on the opposite side. To reach the exit of each stage, players must overcome various obstacles, including: laser hazards that block progress, transporters used to move across the map and portals that must be strategically placed to bypass blocked areas. This "Extended" edition features several technical and content upgrades. The movement and animations have been refined for a smoother, less "blocky" feel compared to the original version. The package includes a total of 60 solo levels (including 12 brand-new stages) and 30 co-op stages. Additionally, the audio has been overhauled to include a dedicated in-game SID soundtrack featuring four new tracks. The game adopts a "thinking person's" design philosophy, offering an unlimited number of retries and no timer, allowing players to use the "delete" key to restart a level at any time without penalty.
-
Production - 70%
70%
-
Fun - 78%
78%
-
Depth - 84%
84%
Summary
FiZZ Extended is a testament to how a great gameplay loop can be elevated through dedicated polish. While the visuals remain on the simpler side—and I still feel the game would benefit greatly from an accomplished pixel artist to really make the levels “pop”—the technical improvements make for a much more cohesive experience.
The learning curve of the four-way gravity mechanic is exceptionally well-balanced. It introduces the wrap-around logic at a pace that feels rewarding rather than frustrating. This is aided by the “thinking person’s” design philosophy; with no timer and unlimited retries via the “delete” key, the game encourages experimentation. You will frequently encounter levels that feel utterly impossible at first glance, only to have that classic “of course!” moment once the solution clicks. That sense of epiphany is the hallmark of a great puzzler.
The inclusion of the single-player co-op mode, where you manage two characters, is a solid addition that adds a rewarding layer of complexity. It takes some getting used to, but it provides a depth of gameplay that few other titles in this genre offer. This added complexity is made much more enjoyable by the new SID soundtrack, which significantly lifts the “vibe” and atmosphere of the game.
Whether you are a returning fan or a newcomer looking for a deep, engaging puzzler, FiZZ Extended is a journey that remains a joy to solve and a delightful addition to any modern C64 library.
Overall
77%User Review
( votes)Pros
Polished Gravity Mechanics: The central hook of switching gravity in four directions is exceptionally well-balanced and intuitive to learn.
Rewarding “Eureka” Moments: Level design is clever, often appearing impossible at first glance before the solution clicks in a satisfying way.
Thinking Person’s Design: The lack of a timer and the inclusion of an unlimited “delete” key for retries encourages persistent experimentation over frustration.
Major Audio Upgrade: The addition of four new in-game SID tracks significantly lifts the atmosphere compared to the original’s sound-effects-only approach.
Depth via Co-op: Managing two characters (whether with a friend or solo) adds a rewarding layer of complexity that extends the game’s longevity.
Cons
Simplistic Visuals: While smoother than the original, the graphics remain basic and would benefit from more environmental detail and “pop.”
Subtle Graphical Improvements: Despite the visual overhaul, the added background elements are minimal and don’t quite reach the heights of other modern C64 titles.
Additional Screenshots:
