While many gamers may scoff at the puzzle game genre, the original Puzzle Quest, with its addition of combat into the standard “match-three” gameplay mechanic, was an incredible (and incredibly addictive) experience. The franchise’s next installment, Puzzle Quest: Galactrix, failed to live up to the original’s glory, due mostly to the playing field’s new, circular shape, and the increased difficulty and frustration that was present as a result.

D3Publisher has taken past mistakes into account, as they have announced Puzzle Quest 2, a true sequel that returns the franchise to its previous setup. Gone is the circular board with hexagonal pieces, as well as the space opera storyline – we’re back to a standard grid, and a story set in the time of wizardry and orcs.

The game will allow players to become one of four character types: War Mage, Inquisitor, Barbarian or Assassin, take advantage of new “weapons, spells, and shields,” and will include the expected modes: Story, Instant Action, Multiplayer, and Tournament.

No official release date has been announced as of yet, but Puzzle Quest 2 will be hitting the XBLA and DS sometime next Spring. I can’t wait.