The original version of Pipe Mania was published by Empire Interactive in 1989, with Pipe Dream released in the U.S. in 1991. It ranks as one of the most popular and ported puzzle games of all time. The title has achieved phenomenal sales of more than 4 million units worldwide, making it one the most successful puzzle games ever launched.
The simplicity of Pipe Mania makes it accessible to all ages. The player must lay down a pre-ordained set of pipes on a tiled grid in order to keep the constantly flowing Flooze moving for as long as possible without it spilling out. The game requires quick thinking, hand-eye co-ordination, forward thinking and keen spatial awareness.
This new version builds on the infectious playability of the original and adds expanded game modes, new themes, new play mechanics, and new pieces to challenge players of all skills and ages.
``We are very excited to bring back Pipe Mania,'' said Ian Higgins, CEO of Empire Interactive. ``Releasing this hugely popular puzzle title across these many formats will give gamers of all ages, particularly the newest generation, the opportunity to enjoy this exciting puzzle sensation.''
Clive Kabatznik, CEO of Silverstar holdings, added, ``Pipe Mania is an excellent example of the enormous unrealized potential of Empire's proprietary game library, which has grown now to more than 320 titles. Like highly-valued Hollywood movie catalogs, these properties can be redeployed again and again into new markets and new gaming platforms, and be enjoyed by the latest generation of gamers. The combination of low redeployment costs with the track record of a winner spells high-margin, guaranteed sales for Empire. Pipe Mania is particularly ideal, since its simple but highly addictive play is perfect for reaching a broad demographic under a multitude of formats.''
The frenetic, addictive game play of the original will be reborn on a variety of popular platforms, including NDS, Wii, PSP, PS2, Xbox Live Arcade, and PC.