Action puzzle games are definitely in vogue at the moment. First there was Tetris, then Klax and now Pipe Mania. The simple ideas are often the best and this is certainly true of Pipe Mania. The game involves laying sections of pipe on a grid to allow liquid to flow around it. On the left of the screen is a column of six pieces of pipe. The piece at the bottom of the column is the one that will be laid when required. You move a flashing square over the grid to get into the correct position to place the pipe section.

Skill and forethought are required to lay pipe sections in the correct sequence to allow the flow of liquid to continue unhindered for as long as possible. If you cannot keep the flow going long enough you will not qualify for the next level. Each level gets harder with later levels having obstacles on the grid which really test your abilities. The most frustrating part is when you need a particular pipe section and none comes along for ages. It is then that you really start to panic.

The gameplay is perfect with the difficulty set to make the game challenging even when you become quite practised. The graphics and sound complement the gameplay by being well done. Overall, an excellent game for all ages and especially for those who like to stretch the grey matter.

Verdict: Fun For braincells!