Portable Bejeweled 2 Deluxe

The classic game of gem swapping takes off to euphoric new heights. Adapted from its predecessor, Diamond Mine, Bejeweled 2 features four unique ways to play. Solve handcrafted brain teasers in Puzzle mode while up against the clock or kick back, relax and enjoy Endless mode. With awe-inspiring planetary backdrops, explosive new gems. and dazzling special effects, Bejeweled 2 is more wildly addictive than ever before.

The main window of Bejeweled 2 Deluxe displays a gameboard filled with diamonds, rubies, and other gems. You must switch pieces around to make groups of three, but you only can move a gem if doing so will result in forming a combination.

In Classic mode, reaching a set number of points promotes you to the next level; the game ends when you run out of moves. Action mode features a meter that steadily decreases, though you can refill it by making good moves. Puzzle mode lets you practice cascade and special techniques to clear the board. Endless mode resembles Action, except you have to fill the meter to move onto the next level.

The graphics and audio are both decent, if a little too space-agey for our taste. You can adjust the music and sound effects on a slider or mute them altogether. You also can resize the game to a full-screen mode. We found Bejeweled 2 Deluxe both addictive and challenging. Fans of puzzle games should give this one a try.