Sokobond Express is a beautifully minimalist puzzle game that combines chemical bonds and puzzling pathfinding in novel ways.
Players start the game by drawing a path to connect atoms into complete molecules. The initial levels introduce the basic mechanics, such as bonding atoms based on their available electrons. As players progress, the game gradually introduces new concepts, including atoms acting as ions with missing electrons, bridges that allow crossing the same square twice, and pylons that can bend the molecular path. The puzzles steadily increase in complexity, challenging players to maneuver multiple molecules simultaneously on the same screen. This gradual introduction of mechanics helps players build upon their understanding, creating a sense of progression that feels natural and rewarding.
One of the standout features is the game's "ghost" preview system, which shows the current state of the molecule as the player is drawing the path. This provides valuable feedback, allowing players to visualize the outcome of their actions and reducing the need for trial-and-error.
Reviews praise the game's ability to strike a balance between being accessible to newcomers and presenting a decent challenge for experienced puzzle enthusiasts. The difficulty ramps up gradually, ensuring that players feel a sense of accomplishment as they overcome increasingly complex puzzles.
Players describe the game as a successful mashup of the two previous Draknek & Friends titles, Sokobond and Cosmic Express. The integration of the chemical bond-based puzzle mechanics from Sokobond and the path-drawing elements of Cosmic Express is praised as seamless, with the different mechanics complementing each other well.
The game's clean, minimalist presentation is lauded as visually appealing and well-suited to the puzzle-focused experience. The user interface is clear, and the charming, relaxing soundtrack contributes to the overall zen-like atmosphere. Reviewers also appreciate the inclusion of educational chemistry facts after each level, which adds a touch of edutainment to the experience.