Art of Balance

Game Overview

Art of Balance tests your spatial awareness, strategy, and understanding of physics through simple yet deep stacking mechanics. Each level presents a limited selection of geometric and irregularly shaped blocks—such as triangles, circles, and arches—that must be carefully balanced on top of a floating base. The puzzle is solved once all given blocks are successfully placed and remain stable above the water for a few consecutive seconds.

As you progress through the campaign, the game introduces tricky mechanical twists to keep gameplay fresh. You will encounter fragile glass blocks that shatter under heavy weight, magnetic blocks that attract or repel nearby pieces, continuous gravity shifts, and decaying blocks that dissolve after a short countdown.

The Wii U release benefits from flexible control schemes and expanded game modes. Players can precise-place blocks using the GamePad touchscreen or opt for motion-based pointer controls. Beyond the single-player World Tour mode, Art of Balance features local multiplayer modes, including head-to-head competitive races, cooperative campaign play, and an endless survival mode, making it one of the premier physics puzzle titles on the platform.

Quick Specifications

• Game Title: Art of Balance

• Platform: Nintendo Wii U

• Release Date: September 25, 2014 (North America) / September 25, 2014 (Europe)

• Genre: Physics Puzzle, Casual

• Developer: Shin'en Multimedia

• Publisher: Shin'en Multimedia

• Mode: Single-player, Local Multiplayer (Up to 5 players)

• Input Method: Wii U GamePad (Touchscreen), Wii Remote Plus, Wii U Pro Controller

Key Features

• Over 200 Physics Puzzles: Features 8 distinct worlds filled with challenging levels that test your stability, balance, and spatial logic.

• Multiple Game Modes: Play through the World Tour campaign solo or co-op, test your reflexes in Endurance mode, or challenge friends in Versus mode.

• Diverse Block Types: Features special mechanics including fragile glass blocks, magnetic fields, gravity flips, and decaying puzzle pieces.

• Flexible Touch & Motion Controls: Grab and rotate blocks effortlessly using the GamePad stylus or point and stack using the Wii Remote.

• 5-Player Multiplayer: Supports split-screen competitive and cooperative gameplay for up to 5 local players simultaneously.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Is Art of Balance on Wii U a remake of the original WiiWare game?

A: Yes, it is an expanded HD remaster of the original WiiWare title, featuring upgraded 1080p graphics, new levels, extra game modes, and GamePad touchscreen support.

Q: Does Art of Balance support Off-TV Play on the Wii U GamePad?

A: Yes, you can play the full game entirely on the Wii U GamePad screen without needing a TV display.

Q: Can I play Art of Balance with friends in local multiplayer?

A: Yes, Art of Balance supports up to 5 players locally in competitive Versus mode and up to 2 players in co-op campaign mode.