Game Review: Q.U.B.E. 2 (Xbox One X)

Q.U.B.E. 2 is a puzzle/platformer video game that was developed by Toxic Games & published by Trapped Nerve Games. Releasing in early 2018, the game eventually went on to be a Game With Gold later that year. Much like the original, Q.U.B.E. 2 is a physics based puzzle game in a similar vein to Portal.

You play as Amelia Cross, a British archaeologist who has awoken on a strange alien planet. With the help of fellow survivor, Emma, players must face the challenging puzzles of the Q.U.B.E. in order to try and find a way back home.

The puzzles in Q.U.B.E. 2 are intelligently designed. Figuring out their solutions and putting it all into motion is satisfying. I liked that the complexity of the challenges presented to you very slowly ramp up. You are eased into understanding each new mechanic. This leads to a frustration free experience. Of course, the latter stages of the game will require some genuine thought. Also, there are always walkthroughs out there if you find yourself truly struggling. Even I had to look at one on a few occasions.

Q.U.B.E. 2 has a highly intriguing storyline that is helped by the excellent voice work and wonderful soundtrack. These elements combine to create something quite atmospheric. As intriguing as it is, the story has issues. In fact, calling it a vague mess isn’t totally unfair. There’s plenty of build-up but the payoff isn’t entirely satisfying. It somewhat depends on your own personal interpretation of what it all means. A lot happens that leaves it all far too open to speculation. I’ve read some theories online that I really like. However, they are just that so who knows what it all really means. I would say that playing the first game will help in your understanding of the story as a whole.

It has become a common trend for games to end in an overly ambiguous manner. It seems developers want gamers to decide for themselves rather than delivering simple answers.

Visually, Q.U.B.E. 2 looks great. Everything has this beautiful sheen to it and the colours really pop nicely.

Overall, much like its predecessor Q.U.B.E. 2 is a solid game. If you enjoy games like the original or Portal then I highly recommend you check this out. Both games have flown under the radar so I’d definitely consider them hidden gems.