Picross is a type of image puzzle where filling in numbered squares on a grid will reveal a secret picture. The only clues are numbers along the grid showing how many connecting cubes appear in each row and column and in what order they appear and are solved by finding the logical combinations. There is a time limit, and choosing the wrong squares will deduct time in increasing amounts. There are 256 puzzles in all, with varying difficulties, and the last 64 are in "Time Trial" mode, where there is no time limit, but the game does not tell you when a mistake has been made. This version of the game adds the notion that the images are ancient heiroglyphics that must be chiseled out of a stone wall, making for an interesting interface and premise. 

But now for the bad news: Puzzles are limited to 15x15 grids, making them relatively easy. Don't even think about playing the game in its true aspect mode if you want to see what's going on. The puzzle solutions are often fairly boring, but there are some unique pictures and Mario characters to discover. The game's translation is obscure at best. A little puppy is referred to as a "mutt" while a mushroom is called a "kinoko" (the Japanese word). You're limited to the D-pad and buttons to complete the puzzles, and the lack of color makes it a hard sell. PAL players would be better off getting Mario's Super Picross on the SNES Virtual Console, while everyone should look to Picross DS's more extensive features. Unless you've completed everything else and are desperate for more Picross action, there are far better options available, though despite its shortcomings, the game is still a blast to play and makes a great travel companion.