Unique and imaginative puzzler
A Rube Goldberg device is the name given to any machine that performs a very simple task but in an incredibly complicated fashion, and is named after a famous cartoonist who liked to draw such devices. The Incredible Machine 2 is a clever and inventive little puzzler which requires players to create their own Rube Goldberg devices using an array of objects. Tasks that players might be required to complete include things like putting a ball in a box, or turn on a machine using a fan, with objects including such assorted items as rope, cats and bowling balls. A freeform mode is also included, where players can simply experiment and play around with things for the simple purpose of having fun. Physics plays a big part in how the machines work, so careful consideration must be given to real-world effects like gravity and air pressure in order to make your machine do what it should. This sequel to the original Incredible Machine expands on its predecessor by bringing in all-new levels, tasks, and parts, while also introducing a two-player aspect and an enhanced freeform mode, which adds greatly to the challenge. For anyone interested in puzzle games, the Incredible Machine 2 is an absolute joy from start to finish. It encourages lateral thinking and imagination in a way that is rarely found in other games and it is immensely satisfying to play, whether you are solving puzzles or simply experimenting with random items. This is definitely the best in the series, with later games offering little innovation, but the original Incredible Machine is also worth a look.
