Escapewelt’s iQube Duel takes the company’s signature puzzle boxes and introduces a fresh, competitive twist, aiming to bring friends and family together for some friendly rivalry. Unlike previous puzzle boxes, such as Blackbeard’s Compass or Force of Elements (both of which had a single-player focus), this new release encourages multiplayer engagement with its two different puzzle designs. Each set includes two cubes that can be tackled individually or in direct competition, making this one of Escapewelt’s more social products. It’s in its Kickstarter phase right now and we’ve already played them, so let’s take a closer look.
The build quality of the iQube Duel continues Escapewelt’s tradition of craftsmanship, with each box constructed from eco-friendly materials, something the brand has become known for. These new boxes add vibrant, bold colors, a result of the new materials used in production, give the cubes a striking appearance that sets them apart from the more muted tones seen in previous releases. However, the appeal goes beyond aesthetics – the 110 intricately designed components within each cube ensure the puzzle experience is as engaging as ever. The interactive mechanics, such as guiding a metallic ball through a labyrinth and unlocking hidden secrets step by step, offer the same kind of tactile satisfaction that’s been a hallmark of the company’s puzzles.
The competitive aspect of the iQube Duel stands out. Escapewelt designed the cubes with time challenges in mind, allowing players to race against each other to see who can solve the puzzles faster. This setup creates an exciting dynamic, particularly in a group setting, where the thrill of outpacing your opponent adds a layer of intensity. The estimated 40 to 60-minute duration for solving each puzzle strikes a good balance—it’s enough time to provide a challenge without becoming overwhelming, though some players might find the difficulty level (which EscapeWelt ranks as 4/5) a bit high for casual play, especially in the heat of competition.
While the puzzles themselves are satisfying, they might not offer much replayability once solved, a limitation that’s common with physical puzzle boxes like those previously reviewed. That said, the dual-mode design and the focus on racing to solve the cubes could encourage multiple playthroughs, as players might compete to improve their times or will definitely want to take turns with the different boxes.
The iQube Duel also arrives just in time for the holiday season, making it an ideal gift for puzzle enthusiasts. Its handmade quality, competitive features, and eco-friendly materials all add to its charm as a present, especially for those looking to disconnect from digital screens and engage in something more tactile. The puzzle’s difficulty level may not be suitable for younger audiences or those new to these kinds of challenges though, meaning it’s best suited for puzzle lovers who enjoy intricate and somewhat demanding tasks.
Overall, Escapewelt’s iQube Duel offers a refreshing take on their tried-and-true formula by introducing a competitive element that can spice up any game night – and if you work on a box together it can be a two versus two scenario as well. Its standout design and eco-conscious production are definite positives, even though the limited replay value and challenging difficulty might not appeal to everyone. For those who enjoy complex puzzles and have a competitive spirit, this is a worthy addition to their collection – and it looks great on your shelf as well.
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