Yes, it’s the same as the first game, only with more “industrial” graphics and a few extra bits. And yes, I was pretty crap at the first one.
But, as is often the way with XBLA games, I couldn’t resist and bought the full version anyway. And I’m glad I did, because it’s actually a bit easier than Hexic HD. There are new power-ups and you can now get rid of hexes with a line of five, both of which make it a bit more possible to get flowers (and ultimately, pearls).
So I played each of the modes (the new Battle Mode is a great addition) and got a few achievements. My eyes are bleeding now though.