PEGGLE REVIEW Earlier this year, The Orange Box was unleashed upon the world. Along with Half-Life 2 and Half-Life 2: Episode One, the much-anticipated "box" shipped with three brand new games: Half-Life 2: Episode Two, Team Fortress 2, and Portal. Peggle was one of the games that capitalized on the hype, with the demo featuring images and sounds from the Orange Box.

Developed by PopCap, this addictive game was described as a cross between Pachinko and Pinball, with the objective of knocking out all of the orange pegs in each level. There are 10 "teachers" that guide you along the way, each possessing a different special ability that can be triggered by hitting one of the two green pegs in each stage.

Nothing can beat the thrill of hitting the last orange peg in a given level (or every peg in the level), the moment when you reach Extreme Fever (or Ultra Extreme Fever). As you approach the last orange peg in the level, everything slows down and the camera zooms in on your ball. If you successfully hit the last peg, you will be greeted by an explosive choral/orchestral rendition of "Ode to Joy". Brilliant.

The soundtrack features Electronic grooves and elements of classical music. For the most part the music is in the background, so as to not infringe on the cool sound effects.

Once you "graduate", you will be presented with "Challenges". Challenges, are, of course, far more difficult than the levels in the "Adventure" mode of the game, and will provide hours more of entertainment (or frustration).

Peggle is one of those games that you can play for 10 minutes, but you usually end up playing longer, because it's so much fun. This article was written by David Andrew Wiebe, web designer, graphic designer, guitarist, bassist, keyboardist, songwriter, guitar instructor, and music expert. Interested in winning a free CD? Click here for more info! Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Recommendations? Email me.

Published on November 19, 2007