Program Has Puzzler Appeal

Run out of table tops for your jigsaw puzzles? Try Merit Software’s “Electric Jigsaw.”

A simple, versatile program that might appeal to puzzlers of all ages, “Jigsaw” offers an assortment of six pictures in a compact package. The pictures were a bit fuzzy on our VGA monitor, though, and even the broad color spectrum of modern computers really doesn’t match up to the photographic palette of traditional table-top puzzles.

Players can choose a picture and cut it into any of several combinations ranging from six to 294 pieces. Each time a picture is selected it is cut into shapes different from any of the previous times the game was played.

The cut pieces are then randomly scattered across the screen. The effect is similar to dumping the pieces out of a cardboard box--except that all the pieces are right side up and vertical oriented. Players can get spoiled real fast.

The main part of the screen shows some of the puzzle pieces in their actual size. All of the puzzle pieces are scattered in miniature along the bottom of the screen, just as if you are playing on the kitchen table. Players can use the keyboard, a joy stick or a mouse to manipulate the jigsaw pieces.

Pieces can be picked up and clustered into groups of like colors or patterns. Small groups or edges can be assembled and set aside for later use. The result is actual puzzle play that is satisfyingly similar to working with traditional puzzles. Interesting electronic enhancements include an animated display when a picture is completed; a timer for competitive players, and a puzzle save feature.

‘ELECTRIC JIGSAW’

Rating: **

IBM, Tandy & compatibles, Amiga; 640K with color graphics. List: IBM: $29.95 / Amiga: $39.95

Computer games are rated on a five-star system, from one star for poor to five for excellent.