At Sifteo we’re bringing together two great play traditions, combining classic play patterns from games like chess, dominoes and jigsaw puzzles with the richness of interactive game technology for an experience that is exciting, challenging, and fun.

Intriguing concept, but at $149 for a set of three cubes (additional cubes cost $45 apiece) and the need of having your computer nearby during gameplay, I don’t expect overwhelming demand. As a game aficionado, though, I have to say I love the idea.

David Pogue of the New York Times likes them, too, although he shares my reservations while adding a third — building a healthy game catalog.

Pogue sums up Sifteo’s cubes nicely:

For the moment, Sifteo cubes are fascinating, innovative and different. They may find a niche as educational tools.

If the company can find a way to make the prices lower, the cubes more self-sufficient and the game catalog more varied, that will be a happy niche indeed.