Cake Mania is definitely worth a try for those who liked Diner Dash (one of my favorites). It adds several different features and is more about creating an order/cake rather then just connecting a series of events. The tutorial is short but teaches you everything you need to play.
The basic game play involves taking orders for cakes, creating them and then delivering a delicious masterpiece to a satisfied customer. As you progress through the game, the cakes become more complicated with layers and toppers. You also encounter a variety of customers with different levels of patience. As new bakeries are opened and you reach higher levels, the number of customers increase. You will find yourself running around the bakery and planning what needs to be done next.
To help you meet the demands of customers there is a shop after every level where you can purchase, among other things, upgrades to your ovens and frosting applicators or toppers for your cakes, which make the cakes worth more. You can choose to purchase new accessories or you can upgrade existing ones. What you decide to purchase becomes part of your strategy for the game. Having this flexibility is great and when you play the game again you may choose to spend your money differently, for instance upgrading all of your ovens before buying the t.v. to entertain customers.
Overall, Cake Mania is definitely worth purchasing. It is entertaining and provides enough of a challenge to keep you playing without becoming frustrated. I found the game seemed to end too soon and wished there were more levels. While this could be seen as a negative that the game is not long enough, I believe it is the sign of a good game, leaving me wanting more. I hope to review the sequel soon.
Graphics: Cartoon style graphics that are well done.
Sound: The music blends into the game well but the warning bell can be a bit annoying (however, it does draw your attention to a customer losing their patience).
Overall: Fun, challenging and well worth the time.
Rating: 4 / 5
Reviewed by: Casual Mom
Review date: Oct 13, 2006
Learn more about Cake Mania on our Cake Mania page
