If you like to play poker and have a mac it can be kinda frustrating when
Another day and another Chillingo release – it’s almost like the sun rising. And lucky for us, the track record that Chillingo has is close to that of the suns. Oh sure, the sun is still batting 1000, and the folks at Chillingo have had a few misses, but it’s pretty close.
I have to admit that I was a late joiner to the Tower Defense party. I had never played one on the computer and didn’t even know about the gaming genre until I picked up Fieldrunners shortly after it came out. Since then I’ve been hooked. In fact I’ve had to finally just say that I’m not going to get another one… I’ve got almost as many of these games as I do zombie games – and that’s saying something.
I’m really surprised there are not more games in the appstore that are based around the gameplay and success of titles like We Love Katamari.
Squashem is an accelerometer based game where you control a user selectable ball like a rock, soccer ball, baseball or even an eyeball in an attempt to Squash the inhabitants of one of the six included game worlds in attempts to clear each level as fast as possible in a race against the clock.
The game consists of two modes of difficulty and a total of 6 unique maps currently. The developer is said to be working on additional levels and content to help expand the game past the initial levels which is something that’s needed.
Easy mode is well suited for younger gamers or those who want to come to grasp with the controls, but most will find the Hard level where the challenge is.
Each world consists of approximately 10 miniature people running for cover as you come near. In easy mode they are not much of a challenge but in hard mode they will jump and dive out of your way.
The objective is to “Squashem” as fast as possible. When you squash these people they become one with the ball. Unfortunately this does not change the physics of the ball which is something I hope is addressed in the updates.
Once you have successfully squashed all the people your score will we talleyd along with your bonus time and you will have the choice to submit your high score to local and online leader boards per level.
The game currently consists of two modes of play Single Level will allow you to play lone specific level over and over trying to better your score while All Levels will start you at level 1 and progress you through to level 6.
The levels are unique and colorful but once you grasp the controls you can complete the game in about 30 minutes and the only incentive to continue playing is to better your score.
It would help is there were some obstacles on the maps like Bumpers or something that when you touched them bounced your ball back a few feet or sent you zipping across the map in an effort to slow you down.
Graphically the game has a nice mix of colors, and a very pleasant appeal to the backgrounds, however the characters your are trying to squish could use a little refinement. I couldn’t help but think I was squishing little fairies due to the way they are designed.
Audio wise the game pretty sparse. The game consists of no music but there are sound effects. You can however play your Itunes music over the game.
Overall Squashem is a pretty decent time killer. It’s no Katamari which it’s clearly inspired after but it’s got some great potential and its fun in short bursts. Sadly it’s going to need some additional levels and some different types of characters and challenges to gain any real attention from the masses.
The Good
Nice Level Designs Bright and colorful feel
Excellent control
Online scoresThe Bad
6 Levels
Squashed people do not change ball physics
More people and Obstacles please
