The Incredible Machine 3.0

Through my many years of gaming, I yet to find a game as unique or addictive as The Incredible Machine. Part of the allure of this wonderful puzzle game stems from its sheer simplicity. The game consists of a series of increasingly difficult puzzles that require completing seemingly simple tasks. Whether it’s feeding a mouse a block of cheese, getting a ball in a basket, or setting off some fireworks, the challenge in solving the puzzles is the abstract, unnecessarily complicated Rube Goldbergesque contraptions that you must create.

Simplistic actions can require dozens of stages involving springs, balloons, rockets, explosions, and even a monkey riding a bicycle! Part of the fun in solving these puzzles is the open-endedness in which these puzzles can be solved. It encourages abstract thinking, problem solving, and strong reasoning skills.
Another excellent aspect to The Incredible Machine is the “free form mode” in which you can create any abstract crazy contraption your mind can come up with. A series of lasers that ignites a rocket which sends a bowling ball flying into a fish tank which causes a cat to walk over a switch which turns on a light bulb. Or, you could set off a screen full of dynamite! It’s the complete openness of the game that lets your imagination wild, and gives this game its infinite replay value. I have been playing this game for years, and never get tired of it.
One great aspect of this game is the universal appeal of it. While most games are aimed at a specific age group, or type of gamer, “The Incredible Machine” is enjoyable for everyone.
As far as graphics and sound go, it’s a relatively sophisticated game for its time. The simplistic nature of the game means that there is very little in the way of action, as the gameplay takes place on a single screen, yet the animations of the objects are interesting and sometimes humorous. The sound fits the whimsical nature of the game well, with the appropriate cartoonish “boings” and “pops” as your machine operates.
The game also includes a rather fun multiplayer mode, which involves going head to head with another player. Unlike most games, multiplayer in “The Incredible Machine” involves both players being on the same computer, which is great for having friends and family play along with you.
All in all, “The Incredible Machine” is by far one of the most addictive and enjoyable games I’ve ever played. Its simplicity and freedom set it apart from most games you’ve played, and makes TIM one of the most unique and enjoyable experiences out there. Give it a shot! You WON’T be disappointed…