Globesweeper: Hex Puzzler takes the spherical minesweeper concept from Globesweeper and twists it into a whole new logic puzzle.
The objective is to identify the "reactive" or mine tiles based on numerical clues provided on the stable tiles. The game is played on a spherical grid of hexagonal tiles.
As players progress through 92 levels, the game introduces new gameplay mechanics that add complexity: Cluster tiles indicate the number of connected reactive tiles. Area tiles show the total number of reactive tiles within a surrounding radius. Line tiles provide information about the number of reactive tiles along a line between two tiles. Chain tiles specify the minimum and maximum number of consecutive reactive tiles. Group tiles indicate the number of distinct groups of reactive tiles. Not tiles specify the number of reactive tiles that are not the indicated value. The developers combine these mechanics in increasingly intricate ways, challenging players to apply logical deduction.
Reviews praise the game's focus on logical reasoning - players must carefully analyze the numerical clues and how they interact with the mechanics to determine the correct placement of reactive tiles. There is always a valid next step that can be deduced, even on the most challenging levels, providing a deeply satisfying sense of accomplishment without requiring guesswork.
The spherical grid, rather than a flat plane, adds complexity as players must rotate and navigate the globe to keep track of spatial relationships between tiles and clues. While some found this frustrating, many appreciated the added challenge and visually compelling presentation.