In the past I’ve been rather critical of developer Florian Himsl, better known as Komix, for producing some lackluster games since his breakthrough success with Triachnid.

I’m happy to say, he’s back on the scene with a new game that is incredibly addicting.

Rings and Sticks is one of the most original (yet simplistic) puzzle games to come around in some time.  The basic premise is to grow your wood and slip it through every unsuspecting hole you can find.  Sometimes you have to plant your seed so that other shafts can be erected and eventually penetrate rings that are otherwise out of your range.

The art in this game isn’t anything to write home about, nor does it need to be.  The simple use of monotone color for the trees and interface art is very artsy without needing any incredible amounts of detail. The goal in each level is visually clear, and that makes this game insanely easy to pick up and start playing.

The sound is just as simple as the presentation.  No annoying music, just a weird ambience and bling sounds when you poke your chocolate colored pole into a glowing ring.

Most of the levels are very clever, and force you to really plan your approach before you stick your shaft into anything, but other levels seem a bit less thought out and you end up with a lot of extra options after you have penetrated everything in sight.

Still, it’s a very fun game, and I look forward to the sequel: “ribbed for her pleasure”

[ Put your stick in some rings.... ]