Winnar! I love my psp.

Altima NEO

Man, I hate these Sony viral ads... They're everywhere!

Gospel X

I'm guessing it's a personal decision. I own both a DS and a PSP and bought both Lumines and Meteos (of course, these two games - while similar - are probably more different than the two puzzle quest games).

Personally, I enjoy both games, but I would have to go with Meteos if I had to choose. The faster speed is just better suited for portable games, and generally, the DS is more likely to be in my pocket than the PSP since it's smaller, sturdier and has better battery life. I think the DS is just generally a better console for puzzle games than the PSP.

I usually wouldn't buy a puzzle game for the PSP, just like I usually don't buy car racers for the DS (Mario Kart being the sole exception).

L_K_M

....where is this puzzle quest craze coming from?! First on Penny-arcade, now here?! There was no craze before, and now that the game's out, suddenly a number of gaming sites are mentioning them. What's going on?

By the way, doesn't the PSP version have a glitch? That's what penny-arcade pointed out.

Dark-Pen

I have encountered graphical glitches in the DS version as well: Namely when leveling up during a creature capture. All the sprites were misplaced and screens overlapping.

TheBeefiest

My girlfriend and I each have a different version...I bought the PSP version and she got the DS version...we both fight over the DS version I'm sad to say. The PSP version looks better and sounds better but the DS is just more fun because of the stylus. Ther are things I can get on the DS that are just too hard on the PSP without the speed of the stylus. Plus there is a stupid glitch in the PSP version so the companion powers dont work...not a huge deal but I did pay for a whole game. I keep hearing people say they get stylus errors buecause the screen is small but I've never had that problem yet. Perhaps I'm more accurate with my sliding about. Still I wish the DS version looked as good as the PSP one. That said looks have never trumped gameplay so I gotta give this one to the DS...another game loses on the PSP due to a shitty control scheme.

Dark_Cheetah

regardless, its going to be a hidden gem game for a while. my only gripe is that for the DS that you can't do battles without having another card.

it really is addictive as hell. me and my wife must have logged a combined 60 hours since we picked it up on the US release date in Canada.

it's also frustrating and very hard. but really fun! a must buy for any gamer (casual gamers may not enjoy it as much)

B1663R

Im playing the psp version, and i swear that theres some sick conspiracy with the AI. what kind of ai gets 3 4-of-kind in a row, whilst dealing 20+dmg?!

and whenever i match something, it sets up the board for the ai to do yet another 4-of-kind! sigh. i hate having bad stats in a game and being forced to run from battle i now have 12 battles and 5 wins.

still lots of fun though! hehehe ~

simmy

It's strange that a graphics comparison is "unfair" - by that I assume the reviewer means the PSP has much better graphic capability than the DS so it's not even worth discussing - but a control comparison is perfectly fair and obviously goes to the DS for that great touchscreen. Hang on, I thought the review was of the game, not the way that it's played. But then that's what N have done of late - made gamers think that it's the way that you play the game, not the game itself, that counts.

Before people accuse me of being a Sony fanboy, I don't prefer either platform - I'm just wasting time before XBL is up and running again!

Fistynuts

Who needs reviews :p.

There's a demo of the game here and while you can't compare PSP/DS, you can see if the game tickles your fancy. It did mine!

http://www.gamedaily.com/canvases/gd/_a/download-puzzle-qu...

You have until level 7 but as far as I'm aware, there's no time limit on how long you can try this out.

Oh, and one website I know still have copies available online :-) (UK site for PSP version)

HiddenAway

Damn it, I saw 3 copies for the PSP at my local Best Buy...I should have really picked this game up...

exkon

does the psp version have the same 2-character save limitation?

kotakuguy

This is great. We absolutely need more reviews that focus on cross-platform goodness. There have been SO many instances in the past where I should have picked up the other console's version.

Great job! Now I know which to get, though both sound very interesting.

nightram

I haven't played the PSP version, but I don't feel like I need to look for another version of it after playing the DS version. It's a good, solid game, and if you don't like to be slowed down by controls even slightly, the stylus is the only way to play this game. Dragging around on the map with the stylus is also nice.

Having said that, by looking at the PSP screenshots of the game, any owner of the DS version might feel slightly jealous as the backdrops for some of the dialog and pretty much everything else just seems to stand out more and add to the atmosphere of the story.

If the party member bug and the controls are not that big of an issue on the PSP version, I would probably get the PSP version as well, assuming I even owned one.

Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go back and re-convince myself that I can't live without the stylus on puzzle quest

CMay

That's just a little biased, to say that it's "unfair" to judge a PSP game against a DS one in terms of graphics, but to not find it unfair to compare them in terms of controls.

Some consoles just have advantages over others generally, and all is fair in love and war. It just so happens that the PSP fairly beats the DS in graphics, while the DS beats the PSP in pretty much everything else.

Babylonian

I can't believe how ugly the DS version is in comparison to the PSP and PC demo. The DS can't be so weak that it can't display a damn puzzle game. I haven't had a single problem with touch screen inaccuracy though, maybe the people having the problem just need to recalibrate their DS. I also would have loved the choice of using the D-pad, my hand cramps up bad after using the stylus for a while but I can't stop playing.

WarlordPayne

If only I could find this at my local stores. Actually I wish that I would even find a store that acknowledges that it exists; as far as I know, this could all be an early April Fool's joke about this awesome game that you should run out and buy that doesn't exist.

Even though I have a PSP and a DS, I will probably buy the DS version because I play with it more. I play the DS every night; I play with the PSP about as much as I play a regular console. (I play one console one day a week, lately it has been PSP, Wii, and XBox.)

kingofallcosmos

Me? The PC demo is the winner.

Kenzya

@cringer8:

I like how you assume I'm a PSP fanboy or something because I called out the "unfair" comparison. I like both the PSP and the DS, what I have a distaste for is BS.

But this idea that the DS gets a pass for graphics because they would "always be worse" is just too silly. If the graphics are worse in one version or the other, they are worse. It's a comparison, and a perfectly valid one. What wouldn't be fair is, say, criticizing New Super Mario Bros. for having less-than-PSP-quality graphics. But this comparison was comparing the systems as much as the games.

Talraen

While I only have a DS, I just wanted to say that I appreciate this article. I was just thinking about the game yesterday, and it's nice to have articles like this to read. Very informative.

darkslide

@herakles: In other words you're a fanboy wanting it to sound as tho your DS version is the better one :D

Irenicus

While the game is fun on both, you forgot to mention the PSP version has an irritating bug in that the abilities of your companions simply do not work (while they do on the DS).

Furthermore, your comments on AI are accurate, but my perception is the DS AI tends to go after mana to enable skills, occasionally passing up skulls for this reason. I'm actually quite impressed by this, since it's the way I as a human play as well (for instance if I need a bit more mana to cast a 3 turn entangle I will go for it over 3 skulls so I can roast the enemy next turn).

All things considered the games are similar enough that I give the nod to the DS version for the superior control and ease-of-play alone.

herakles

I just bought a copy for the PSP, and I'm sorry to say, this is one of the most addicting games I've played...the load times arent a problem at all and the only problem with the control is that you're a bit slower than you could be during battles.

this was definately a game designed for portables though, and I would highly recommend it.

ADonato2886

@Erwos: "I also think I would give the controls a tie. I actually preferred the PSP controls, as your hands were less likely to cramp up over time."

Maybe for you. My hands are comfortable with a DS Phat. I actually have a harder time holding a PSP for long periods of time. It's easiest for me at night when I'm just holding the PSP on my stomach and not actually holding it up. And that's with a PlayGear case on it - it's even more cramping without it.

Not everyone feels the same way about ergonomics, so sweeping generalizations about your favorite console's superiority are not merited. I, for example, have no problem with the original bear-hands Xbox controller. My wife hates it.

Cutriss

I have to totaly agree with you.

Mainly since I think most people keep a DS on them because they use it much more then a PSP.

But since I have both, (and my PSP being 1.5 running DevHook) I basicaly take with me whatever I'm feeling in the mood for.

And the load time for the PSP version is only like 0.5 seconds only when you cast a spell you havent cast yet durring that battle, and when you cast again it dosent need to load a 2nd time.

HappyWulf

I guess I have to pick this one up for my PSP this game completly slipped by me for some reason... Cheers for the piece Kotaku!

Irenicus

Sounds like I would pick the PSP version over the DS version if I had both systems...but I only have a DS so if I get a version it'll be that one.

Is this game really good?

Adam In Texas

Which one? The answer?

Gamefly my friends! Rent both versions, send one back that isn't your perference after a week and (maybe) be able to keep the winning one around until it comes on sale so you can buy it from them. :)

TheGreenMan

With a game breaking bug on the PSP version, I disagree and will play the DS version.

Snap

And dont get me started on ATM machines!

EnigmaNemesis

Yeah Touchscreen plagiarism ... my goodness those touch screens in the grocery stores for I dunno ... 10 years now.

EnigmaNemesis

As someone who went rabid after the PC demo - and if you want a crisp look at the game, there you go - I'm perfectly happy with the DS version. For me, the stylus control is the clear winner. If I can't move fast, I ain't happy.

Incidentally, the DS AI is still evil as hell. If you think it's just passing up skulls, I guarantee you it's actually going for a mana build that is going to prison-rape you in a couple of turns.

On a related note, the company is developing a sci-fi version called Galactrix. We may never escape those little gems again.

Khaman

@Erwos:

Hmmmm, you sound a little defensive over the PSP. A little *too* defensive (SDF?). Obviously, the performance category was a bit of a toss-up, so he tipped the scales with battery life. And he wasn't saying he *shouldn't* compare the graphics; he was saying that it's an unfair battle. The PSP will always win that category. Also, the controls category isn't *always* going to be won by the DS. There have already been games with *horrible* control schemes on the DS.

But, you would know that, because you *apparently* own one (I doubt it myself).

@Talraen:

It's not "fair" to compare graphics because the PSP will ALWAYS win that category. It's a known fact that won't change anytime soon. However, controls on the DS can be *horrible* on some games. Developers that focus too much effort on forcing touch screen controls can ruin an entire game experience. So the DS isn't "guaranteed" victory in that field...making it "fair" to compare.

Either way, you two, your precious PSP still came out on top. I guess you aren't happy unless someone says it wins in *all* categories.

cringer8

Just a side not, I hope your gf doesn't read this and realize you're giving her the version you think isn't as good ;)

jayntampa

I dunno, to me, the companion bug is a big issue because, well ... I mean, that's why you get them. I mean, there is no other purpose. It adds a tiny bit of strategy ... and, i like that idea.

jayntampa

I must say that after playing the PC demo (at 1920x1200) the graphics on the DS version is just terrible. The puzzle area is small, text are hard to read, and the character portraits are blurry due to the low resolution. Too bad I don't have a PSP or I would pick this up for that instead as I think it is like the PC more in terms of presentation (graphic and sound), which makes a lot of difference. I don't think using the d-pad is a problem because it would be like Bejeweled for cell phones or Xbox360.

number8888

I have to say that I would probably get the PSP version if I had one. It all depends on how cramped the DS's screens look.

FanDam

I love how people's perception of Kotaku is a Nintendo Fanboy breeding ground, but when I first visited this site a while ago, it was quite a different story. Now it's time to shutup about fanboyism, methinks. Stop fishing for crap that isn't there.

amazinglarry

I couldn't even get past the first round of puzzle quest. The controls for the DS are really wonky. the screen isn't big enough to touch those little pixels. Why can't i use the D-pad to say clear my selection? And why is the tutorial outside the game? It's very cellphone style.

Puzzle Quest is obviously a game designed for one screen.

Get Custom Robo Arena DS instead.

fornoman

@Smokemeakipper: Many of the DS games use the "Some do, some don't" philosophy you just mentioned. A lot of them have the option of either using the touchscreen or using the d-pad. I don't think it would hurt the PSP to have such an option for "post-redesign" games, and I really don't think they'd need to re-do their games just so they can use the ability to use the touchscreen... unless the original developers saw a necessary need to do so.

RiceBandit

I was so torn on which copy to buy. I finally settled on the DS as I figured I'd enjoy the game with a stylus more. I've started to love my PSP, so I would have liked to get it for that, as well as the shiny graphics, but I love using the stylus, so I think I made the right choice. I'm old enough to remember 8-bit games, so the graphics aren't a deterrent as much as the gameplay.

For those of you still looking, I've been working on the west coast, and was able to get my copy at Hollywood Video's off-shoot company (Game Rush I think?) They got shipments in last Friday, but couldn't start selling them until Saturday because of some glitch in their system... so you might check out those stores.

dirtybacon

I don't get the whole "unfair comparison" argument. It really doesn't matter if it's fair or not-- the two handhelds are direct competitors (not to mention the fact that the "graphical underdog" DS is dominating the industry), and the game was released on both. End of story.

Doesn't matter to me, as I only have a DS, anyways.

RiceBandit

@ Papabear

Thats fair enough wit ease of use in internet browsing and system utilities. Though with regards to some games using it and some games not, I dont think that sort of fragmented structure wouldnt secure a very effective product identity. The DS is (arguably) successful on the basis of its touch screen and the association with such ideas. The PSP equivelent 'yeah, some do, some dont' approach wouldnt be sufficient enough to win over late (which is what they would be) adopters.

But then again, thats just my opinion :)

Smokemeakipper

@Talraen: Go with whatever you feel like it,it seems both versions are fun .According to Gamespot the difference in score is of .4 .I was really surprised this game got more than 8.0 in gamespot i thought it was goinn to suck.

Hater3000

I got the DS version and can't seem to put it down.

Granted, I don't have the PSP version to compare, but the DS version is not a shoddy port. Also, I haven't had any difficulty with the stylus yet.

aegil

nice review. thanks.

i think the PSP does have an advantage because of their system's power. all it boils down to is how important the touch screen is to the gmaeplay

diablofreak

Everything this days can be used to start a Ds vs PSP argument.I would totally choose the PSP because it scored higher and the screen size mostly.I heard the touch screen wasnt quite perfect on the Ds but i also hear about the bug on the PSP,so imo the PSP because i dont have a bloody DS.

Anyway should i get this?,i heard it scored really high in all the plattaforms but is it better than merucury or exit?.

Hater3000

Now, if only somebody else owned a PSP.

Rayzak

I'm curious why it's "unfair" to compare a DS and PSP's games graphics, yet apparently it's perfectly fair to compare their controls. Each system has its strengths and weaknesses, what's with giving one or the other a pass?

Talraen

Oh Sweet~!

Thanks guys.

Now I have to start hunting for a copy!

Torokun

I bought the PSP version for myself and the DS version for my wife.

I do not like the Companion bug in the PSP version and hope that it is rectified. But it has a larger interface based on the screen size.

However, both versions are fun.

Oxybeles

"Since that's a fairly big thing (even though the devs disagree), I think that might give the DS version the advantage."

It's not. Seriously. I have both versions (DS and PSP), and the companions bug, while annoying, doesn't detract from the gameplay in any serious way.

I have no idea why "performance" suddenly narrowed down to "DS has more battery". That's kind of bullshit in my opinion, when in-game performance is CLEARLY better for the PSP. (What if I'm playing on AC power?) That's my primary complaint about the comparison - it feels as if he wanted to give a win to the DS for absolutely no reason.

I also think I would give the controls a tie. I actually preferred the PSP controls, as your hands were less likely to cramp up over time.

Finally, for the AI, I never noticed any significant difference between the two versions. I wonder if this wasn't just in the reviewer's head.

Erwos

@smokemeakipper:

To get this game you really have to do your homework. Call around all your local Gamestops (use their website's store locator), call all your Best Buys, your Frys, your Targets, your Wal-Marts. It may be too late for you until they re-print the game, but it can't hurt to try.

Bahamut

HERE COMES THE WRATH OF FAN RAGE!!!

...hey, this comparison is harsh. Harsh, but fair.

stuminus3

You might pick the PSP version over the DS version for graphics and sound, but there's a bug in the PSP version which makes your companions special abilities not used in gameplay:

http://pspupdates.qj.net/PSP-version-of-Puzzle-Quest-Chall...

Since that's a fairly big thing (even though the devs disagree), I think that might give the DS version the advantage.

Now, if there's a revision 2 of the game with that bug fixed, or if they do release a patch that can be placed on a memory stick and used in-game, that might change things. However, since there's nothing confirmed at this time, the DS version might be the way to go.

I say this as an owner of both the DS and PSP and I'm trying to decide on which system to get the game.

bgivnin

@Smokemeakipper:

Who says you have to retrofit the old games? Hell, who says new games even have to take advantage of it in the first place?

I want the touch screen for portable internet surfing abilities (it would make it a lot easier than surfing around and typing with a thumbstick) and give future games the option of whether or not to do it.

Who cares what the fanboys say about plagiarism. A good idea is a good idea. I could understand if Sony was coping a BAD idea...

Besides, to my knowledge there is no copyright on a hand held system using a touch screen. Why not do it?

PapaBear

One con for the PSP version: there is a glitch that negates companion bonuses. Not a huge deal, but something to consider.

Froggore

@PapaBear

I dont think a PSP redesign will come with a touch screen. Why? A huge back catalogue of games would have to be reconfigured in order to work effectively, if at all. As much as Id love to see a touch screen PSP, I think Sony is too far into the lifecycle of the system to bother introducing touch screen games and rejigging alot of older stuff. Perhaps a touch screen system menu but not alot else. Plus, it would be another reason to bash Sony for their 'blatent plagurism' (please note the comma's to denote possible sarcasm!) of Nintendo's ideas.

Cheers for the comparison, though I think ill just stick with the DS version (when I can find it!?).

Smokemeakipper

What had happened to the bug I'd heard about? I haven't played the game myself, but I -do- remember reading here that there was a major bug for the psp version; something along the lines of not being able to use your allies' special abilities or something? That right there is more than enough to purchase the DS version of the PSP version, right? I sense someone's going back on their word, and that's the last thing I want to hear about my main source of info on the gaming industry.

Teller

@Kyle81:

No one insults the "Primary Color Mafia" and gets away with it. He'll be sleeping with the Pikmen by morning.

/yes, I repeated that joke

//wanna fight about it?

PapaBear

Wow, the DS actually lost a battle for once.

DigitalHero

@Kyle81: Wrath of fan rage? No, the more predictable thing to expect from an article like this is people like you warning us about "Nintendo fanboys."

Mezodon

I really hope the rumors are true, and the PSP redesign will include a touch screen navagation system. Not only would i pick one up for interacting with my PS3, but for this game as well.

As far as the here and now goes, I was thinking of getting a DS for this game, for the controls. But seeing how different it looks and acts, I don't know.

Maybe I'll just wait and see how this PSP redesign pans out.

PapaBear

I also noticed that the computer on my DS version would occasionally miss chances to damage me, but I figured that was just a way to keep the AI feeling like a human. I've also noticed the DS AI seems to stockpile mana and will only use some of its more powerful abilities when it's got lots of mana to spare.

It's a fun game but I'm starting to come down off my enthusiasm for it - but that's probably just because I'm playing other things again.

baberg

I heard the opposite choice as in the screen isnt a big deal and it handles it well...although they did mention the small pieces and some stylus error but they said it wasn't a huge difference.

BlindsidesDork

I saw the title and thought it meant that you could play Puzzle Quest on DS against a PSP. I guess there are tons of reasons why cross-platform gaming won't happen. Maybe a super-Homebrewer could make a cross-platform mobile game....

itcomesinwaves

No you made a positive comment for a SONY product over a nintendo product! Prepare for the wrath of fan rage!

Kyle81