LEX Review

Much like Simple Machine's other titles, LEX keeps it simple. It's a word game for those with no interest in filler content or being overwhelmed by options. It works pretty well too, although some will wish for more variation in the long run.

The idea is a very familiar one. Players are tasked with creating words from a series of letter tiles placed at the bottom of the screen. Each tile has been assigned a different value with the likes of X and Z meaning more points, while vowels such as A and E being useful as gateway tiles rather than as a means to score highly. New tiles are introduced at regular points, which is handy when trying to come up with words quickly. More importantly though is the issue of keeping the timer at bay. Each tile has its own timer, with the trickier letters having the longest time. Once one tile runs out of time it's game over, so there's the careful balancing act of using tiles swiftly and effectively.

As well as that, the more words created, the bigger the score multiplier - but ultimately LEX is a pretty simple game. There aren't any bonuses or power-ups to use here, coins to gain, or anything more than the satisfaction of a job well done and a place on the Game Center leaderboards.

That's a double edged sword for LEX. While it's strangely soothing to play thanks to a relaxing soundtrack throughout and some stylish visuals, those looking for more of a purpose might feel underwhelmed. LEX doesn't always have that 'one more go' factor, although it is quite fun to dip into for the sake of beating one's previous high score.

Kind of like an appetizer before the main course, LEX is a bite-sized piece of shallow fun. Something that Simple Machine is generally pretty good at providing. Just don't expect it to be something that sticks in one's memory for any length of time, despite the original timer mechanics. It's just not that kind of thing.