If you've ever had a hankering to explore an ancient Mayan civilization, you might want to check out Jewel Quest first. This game, which asks the player to rearrange sparkling jewels, uncover artifacts, and turn sand into gold, is chock full of South American jungle sounds and images. Jewel Quest is not for the easily frustrated, but will definitely attract those who love a challenge.

While uncovering artifacts and turning sand into gold sounds like the makings of an adventure title, Jewel Quest is a classic puzzle through and through. Each level consists of various jewels placed on a grid. Your job is to rearrange the jewels so that you end up with a line (horizontal or vertical) of three of the same jewels. Once you do that, the squares of sand they were sitting on turn to gold. The object of the game is to turn the entire board into gold before time runs out. Subsequent levels have that same object, but get a little more complicated. Sometimes there are artifacts that you need to move out of the way, and other times the board is smaller with less room to rearrange the jewels.

The best part of Jewel Quest is the fact that it is a very addictive game. Even though there is a time limit, it is long enough that you can strategize and really think things through. In time and with practice, you will be able to clear the boards a lot faster, but you'll also have a lot of fun trying. When you turn the sand into gold, the game makes a satisfying plink noise, and there are animal noises throughout the game, making it feel like you are playing in the middle of the Amazon jungle. Monkeys scream and birds chirp, and when you finally complete a board, there is what sounds like an elephant's roar as well.

Jewel Quest gets difficult very quickly, making the entire experience frustrating for those that just want to play and want to win. The game is not really suited for work, because the time meter keeps on decreasing, so frequent pausing does nothing to help your progress throughout the levels. If you don't mind the challenge, and you have the time to kill, you'll probably really enjoy this game. The graphics, though pretty simple, are colorful and vibrant, with sparkling jewels, and an authentic-looking Mayan temple background.

Overall, Jewel Quest ranks right up there with games like Bejeweled and Tetris in terms of addictiveness and enjoyment, and is one that puzzle lovers should certainly give a whirl! Jewel Quest can be tried for free at Grab.com.

Helpful Tip: When you get stuck and can't find another row to clear, pay close attention to the game board! Jewels that can be rearranged will sparkle briefly, providing you with a helpful hint that can save your game!