After more than a decade away from the spotlight, the iconic PSP puzzle game Lumines makes a spectacular return with Lumines Arise, bringing its signature block-dropping action to PlayStation 5 and PC with breathtaking modern enhancements.
A Triumphant Return for a Classic Franchise
Originally launched on Sony's PlayStation Portable, Lumines became an instant classic under the creative direction of Tetsuya Mizuguchi, the visionary developer behind sensory experiences like Rez Infinite and Tetris Effect. Despite several sequels and remasters appearing on various platforms over the years, the series has maintained its strong PlayStation identity.
The new instalment, released on 11th November 2025, marks the first mainline entry since the PS Vita version thirteen years ago. Priced at £32.99, Lumines Arise feels like a rediscovered treasure from PlayStation's history, recalling an era when experimental titles like Patapon and LocoRoco stood alongside blockbuster franchises.
Gameplay Mechanics That Dazzle and Challenge
For newcomers, Lumines shares fundamental similarities with Tetris but introduces crucial differences that create its unique identity. Players manage falling blocks in a grid, but instead of creating lines, the objective is forming 2×2 squares of matching colours. These formations are cleared by a vertical timeline that sweeps across the playing field at regular intervals.
The strategic depth comes from accumulating multiple squares before the timeline hits, maximising point gains in single sweeps. While managing only two colours per stage might sound straightforward, the rapidly accelerating pace and potential for errors create genuine tension and challenge.
Lumines Arise introduces several new mechanics that enhance the classic formula. The Burst system serves as a game-changing addition, allowing players to activate a special mode once a meter charges to 50% or more. During Burst, the focus shifts to creating the largest possible square while blocks of the opposing colour are blasted upwards off the grid – hence the game's 'Arise' title.
When the Burst period concludes, the jettisoned blocks come crashing back down, often creating perfect opportunities for cleaning up same-coloured stacks. This mechanic requires careful timing and strategic thinking, proving most effective when deployed as situations become precarious but before they become unsalvageable.
Presentation That Elevates the Experience
Much like Tetris Effect before it, Lumines Arise transforms puzzle-solving into a multi-sensory spectacle. The game supports PlayStation VR2, immersing players in its vibrant worlds, while the Journey mode's 35 stages each feature distinct themes ranging from ticking clocks to sliced fruits and marbles.
The audio experience stands as one of the game's crowning achievements. Hydelic and Takako Ishida, returning from their work on Tetris Effect: Connected, deliver an eclectic soundtrack that moves seamlessly between thunderous electronic beats, classical arrangements, soulful pop, and even a brass groove house party featuring animated chameleons.
Each visual theme interacts beautifully with the gameplay – forming 2×2 blocks with marble designs creates satisfying clonking sounds as they roll away from the grid, while other stages feature equally engaging audiovisual feedback.
Comprehensive Game Modes and Accessibility
Beyond the main Journey mode, Lumines Arise offers substantial content that justifies its mid-range price point. Players can tackle 60 training missions of escalating difficulty, 25 challenge stages with specific conditions like growing blocks or hatching eggs through strategic placement, and create custom runs via the Playlist option.
The multiplayer suite provides excellent variety, including Time Attack challenges for leaderboard competition, the returning Dig Down mode from Lumines Supernova, and the new Burst Battle – a competitive take that pits players against each other locally or online, with formed squares sending garbage blocks to opponents' grids.
Accessibility features demonstrate thoughtful design, including a 'no-stress Lumines' toggle for players who want to enjoy the atmosphere without failure pressure, and options to remove theatrical elements like dramatic zoom-ins for a purer puzzle experience.
Minor Flaws in an Otherwise Excellent Package
Not every element hits the same high standard. The Loomi customisation system feels underwhelming, with generic cosmetic options for the block-headed humanoid that navigates menus and represents players in online lobbies. This progression layer seems lifted from lesser games and adds little value to the overall experience.
Some modes, particularly local multiplayer, suffer from inadequate menu sign-posting, potentially leaving players unaware of certain features without thorough exploration.
Verdict: A Puzzle Game Reborn
Lumines Arise represents a triumphant revival that honours its heritage while embracing modern gaming sensibilities. While it won't convert those who never connected with the series previously, it serves as both an ideal gateway for newcomers and a sophisticated expansion for existing fans.
The game demonstrates how production values and creative vision can elevate established formulas, following in the footsteps of Tetris Effect while carving its own distinctive identity. With its mesmerising presentation, satisfying new mechanics, and wealth of content, Lumines Arise stands as one of the year's most compelling puzzle experiences.
Final Score: 8/10
