DNA

DNA is an addictive puzzle game that builds on the popular gameplay elements of games such as Bejeweled. But instead of the “match three” of the same color gameplay that most other puzzle games use, DNA features a unique color combination system where you have to combine differently colored free-floating proteins to create the colors of cells you need.
You may be wondering what these special proteins are used for; well, that’s where the storyline comes in. Yes, the storyline. In DNA, you are an assistant to biologist Dr. Rose Thompson, and your goal is to help her with experiments to create and preserve new species of flowers. Before every level, Dr. Rose will instruct you on how many of each colored cell you need to create a new breed of flower in the lab. For instance, you may need to create 20 green, 15 purple and 25 orange cells to complete the level. The game is based on primary colors, so to make green cells you need to click on either a yellow or a blue protein. If you choose to click the blue one first, a small ring will appear around the protein and, if there is a yellow within the radius of the ring, you can combine the two proteins to create a green cell.
If you link at least 10 of the same colors together they cause a chain reaction, and the cells will burst. Keep it up until you get the amount needed of each color. In later levels there are obstacles to avoid, such as viruses and diseased cells. If it all sounds a little confusing, don’t worry; there is a very helpful tutorial that will have you creating cells in no time.
The mode we’ve discussed above is Action Mode, one of three different modes in DNA. In Puzzle Mode, you need to clear the screen of all shapes to move on to the next level. Unlike in action mode, though, the proteins aren’t randomly spawned but are placed in a predefined position at the start of each level, and it’s up to you to find the solution to clear the screen. There may only be one or two solutions to each puzzle, so choose your moves carefully. The third mode is Eternal, which basically lets you play at ease with no time limits or goals, so you can play at your own pace.
If you love puzzle games and want to break free from the “match three” gameplay of most other puzzle games, DNA will provide hours upon hours of fun. If you want to give it a whirl, it’s available for download here.

— Randie Kilgore