Zuma Deluxe for Windows

PC version of the Zuma game

Zuma Deluxe is a premium adventure game for PC developed by PopCap Games Inc. It's the official PC version of the puzzle game of the same name that was released back in 2003. In it, players will venture into jungle temples filled with traps in search of hidden secrets and treasures.

Compared to the original Zuma release, Zuma Deluxe introduces 3D accelerated graphics with better textures and an improved sound design for a more immersive experience. New players to the series can try out the free demo to get an idea of what they can expect gameplay-wise.

The definitive experience

When talking about matching puzzle games, the conversation cannot be without mentioning the classic title, Zuma. It was initially released as a browser game but was quickly ported to other popular platforms at the time, including PDAs, cellphones, and even the iPod. It was only a matter of time before it made its way to the consoles and PCs, and that's exactly what happened with Zuma Deluxe.

This new release has the art style and fun gameplay of the original. The change is with the improved graphics that support higher resolutions, as well as higher quality sound effects for a more immersive experience during gameplay. You get two game modes to choose from, with the first one being Adventure Mode, which serves as the main campaign that features more than 20 temples to explore.

After beating the first mode, you will then unlock Gauntlet Mode. Here, you get to choose any previous chapter and replay it again in an endless gameplay of sorts that will grow in difficulty the longer you play. Unfortunately, the game suffers from incompatibility issues across platforms, especially new versions of operating systems. Most players only experience errors and crashes.

Unfortunately broken

Zuma Deluxe would have been the perfect way for gamers to experience the classic game on their PC. It provides welcome improvements while retaining the core experience that fans love. Sadly, the glaring problem of compatibility stops it from being so. In its current state, it's hard to recommend until this issue gets resolved. You're better off with another game or version.