After a few levels of using this auto-find, it becomes quite clear that there are tens of connections that appear when randomly hitting this button. What started as a search for finding the right view to take turns into basic trial and error against the clock, and further into a grind to complete each level by pushing that button over and over again after initially failing to see what should be done. It ended up being more helpful in solving the puzzles than actually doing what I, the player, wanted it to do.

Doing this doesn’t entirely ruin the experience, and to some extent is the player’s choice, but when the open guide book sits at your feet, who doesn’t peek in to get ahead? The last thing a game should request, a puzzle game at that, is self restraint towards thought provoking material over button mashing.

The other unique aspect (other than the gameplay) was the ability to create levels that can be shared with anyone. New maps are available to download, though for the PSP they only work through its Wi-Fi connection and cannot be downloaded via PC or PlayStation 3, which was a bummer. The camera is also somewhat difficult to maneuver, and because every level is timed, even pausing in-game to think over the best solution keeps the clock ticking, further reinforcing the idea to keep pushing the square button.

Echochrome is a good game, though sadly it falls short of being a great or excellent puzzle game due to some poor play mechanics. For those strong willed gamers who enjoy the occasional mind-bending experience, Echochrome is right up your alley. It’ll certainly last, with level creation, free play and downloading new levels, but the self restraint is not for the weak of heart.