Pipe Mania (1989) PC

Pipe Mania is a European version of the game called Pipe Dreams, produced by The Assembly Line studio. Compared to the prototype created by the famous George Lucas corporation, this program has a slightly better graphics. Other aspects of the game remained unchanged.

The main task for Pipe Mania is to construct a pipe. Starting from the tap, we arrange its successive parts using randomly selected elements located on the left side of the screen. After a dozen or so seconds from the beginning of the competition, water will appear in the pipe. It must flow through a pre-determined number of segments, otherwise all the work will be in vain. If we manage to complete the task, we move on to the next stage. Crediting four consecutive levels provides us with a code and allows us to take part in a bonus round, in which we arrange the pipe with the elements falling from the top of the screen.

Despite the fact that Pipe Mania and Pipe Dreams are almost identical games in terms of concept, both programs have a different audiovisual setting. The Assembly Line's product includes a greater number of different "worlds" in which we will have to lay pipes. As far as the sounds are concerned, there are no major deviations from the original. And here and there we will hear a squeaky PC Speaker, which, after several minutes of struggle, may lead users to a shoemaker's passion.

Although Pipe Mania is considered to be a logical game, in fact, the player will have to demonstrate dexterity and reflex rather than the ability to use grey cells. Nevertheless, the program is worth recommending to all maniacs of hybrids of both species, and especially to enthusiasts of Tetris, with whom Pipe Mania has a lot in common in a sense.

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Last updated on 10 December 2007