Puzzle Quest 3 has been announced as a free-to-play title by new publisher 505 Games and returning series developer Infinity Plus Two, coming sometime this year. This marks the first entry in the franchise in ten years, so to say it's an overdue return would be quite the understatement.
Releasing the below announcement teaser trailer, 505 Games promises that Puzzle Quest 3 "returns to its origins" with the series' trademark blend of match 3 puzzle gameplay and RPG battle mechanics. The RPG theming looks particularly strong in this upcoming entry, with dragons evidently playing a prominent role in the game's narrative and visuals. Speaking of visuals, the publisher claims that Puzzle Quest 3 will feature a "1-versus-1 battle system realized in a 3D game world." What devices the new free-to-play title will be available on for its "debut in 2021" aren't yet known.
Rarely played for any particular level of graphical flair not already available in other games in either the RPG or puzzle genres, the original Puzzle Quest titles were never exactly lookers. However, they had a strong following by fans for their unique gameplay and theming not catered to as well in other puzzlers. Given the chance to reinvent the series in the free-to-play space, it seems Infinity Plus Two is also looking to spruce things up in the visual department, which would be a welcome change in the otherwise familiar franchise.
Puzzle Quest 3 will be available in 2021.
Source: 505 Games