Hole.io is an arcade physics puzzle video game created and published by Voodoo, initially released in 2018, and since released on a variety of platforms, such as Android, iOS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PlayStation, and Windows. The game play is based on navigating a black hole across a city map or special maps, sucking up objects to grow bigger. The idea is straightforward but irresistible: gobble up everything in front of you, from small things such as trash cans and hydrants to larger items such as cars, structures, and even other players’ holes, until you are the biggest hole on the board.

Hole.io is an amiable addictive game due to its simple mechanics combined with competitive elements. Every new round, your hole starts small and can only swallow tiny objects. The more you traverse and swallow objects, the bigger your hole is, so you can swallow larger and larger objects. This growth mechanic is a great positive feedback loop; the more you swallow, the stronger and larger you become. The game’s physics engine adds a layer of strategy, as objects sometimes get stuck or block your path, requiring you to plan your route efficiently to maximize growth. There are two main modes in the game: Classic, where you’d prefer to be the largest hole after a two-minute game, and Battle, a battle royale mode where you’d like to be the surviving hole by consuming other holes and the map.

Multiplayer, however, is deceptively named. Although the game encourages multiplayer combat, much of the opposition is actually AI-generated bots, not actual players, which can detract from the competitive excitement for some players. Nevertheless, the game is fast-paced and provides sufficient challenge through its physics engine and map design to keep players interested. Maps are also relatively diverse, having six worlds to play on that vary from cityscapes, offices, and malls, to even theme worlds like Jurassic and Pirates, with each one having unique objects to eat and strategic map designs to navigate.

Control is minimal, employing just one joystick or touch input to navigate the hole’s movement. It is so minimal that Hole.io is playable by players of any age and experience. The game also contains collectible stickers and skins which provide a cosmetic aspect to the game, wherein the player is able to customize the appearance of the hole. Power-ups may also randomly appear in the game and grant the player with temporary benefits such as speed or magnetism to attract objects towards it but the power-ups are mostly lackluster and do not factor into the gameplay much.