App of My Eye » Retro

Aera

Art — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 07:37:27 +0000

It’s been six years since the release of one of my favorite games on the original Microsoft Xbox. Developed by Microsoft’s FASA Studio, Crimson Skies: High Road To Revenge had everything that you would want in a game at the time: highly stylized graphics, an epic setting, a sandbox gameplay environment, easy pick-up and play controls, and online gameplay through Xbox Live, which was still relatively novel for consoles at the time. However, since then, we haven’t heard anything in regards to a sequel and while FASA Studio has closed its doors, the original creators are working on the next Mechwarrior installment as Smith & Tinker in conjunction with Piranha Games. They’ve said they will turn their attention to a Crimson Skies sequel next, but c’mon, really? I mean it’s almost the end of the current generation’s console lifecycle. Therefore, it sounds like we won’t see a sequel until the next generation systems come out. So what should we do until then? I recommend checking out iChrome’s Aera, a simplified flight simulator that features a hybrid 3D/2D side-scrolling gameplay in exceptional retro 1950’s style graphics much like Crimson Skies. Supplemented with 3 types of game modes, such as Aerobatic/Solo, Dog Fight, and Racing, expand your repetoire of moves as you master more advanced controls. Most impressive is the ‘Time Back’ feature which allows you to return to the spot before a crash rather than restarting. Highly recommended as a brief respite from your desire for a Crimson Skies sequel. Price: $2.99.

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Eliss

Art — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 07:25:23 +0000

Just like me, Eliss has been celebrated as of late. However, unlike me, this extraordinary quasi-music puzzle game wasn’t the object of ridicule by relatives at his own birthday party because it gained a couple of pounds and added some gray hair. No, instead, Stephane Thirion’s micro masterpiece has gained worldwide accolades for its originality, accurate touch-sensitive control, and addictiveness. Proclaimed by some as the ‘killer app’ upon it’s release and therefore, further thrusting the iPhone into the spotlight as a viable gaming platform, Eliss showed us something different yet familiar simultaneously. Start off combining or splitting ’like’ planets (based on color) to fit different sized ’squeesars’, which then bloom like cosmic flowers that shoots off stardust you can wipe away. However, you have to be careful not to accidentally touch ‘unlike’ planets or the harmony of the universe becomes unstable and could eventually collapse. Makes sense? I didn’t think so too at first, but it starts making sense once you get into the game. Then, you will understand why, even in it’s visual simplicity, it has garnered a heaping helping of praise since its debut. For me, while it’s 25 levels have entertained me countless times, the game symbolizes that some things do get better with age. So, I can still hold out hope that the same can be said about me… until my next birthday! Price: $3.99.

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3D Spinball (3D Pong)

Art — Wed, 20 May 2009 10:37:56 +0000

Aren’t you getting sick of all the movie remakes? First, it was Psycho with Vince Vaughn (stick to comedies, buddy) and most recently, Star Trek… Well, that was actually pretty good. But now, Paramount just started casting Footloose… Freakin’ Footloose, man?! Really? The same can be said about most game remakes, but fortunately, this ain’t one of them. Based off the original Curve Ball at AddictingGames.com, play what is essentially 3D Pong against an AI opponent that constantly adjusts to your skill level keeping each experience uniquely competitive. With 20 different arenas (including the original), a variety of thumpin’ techno tracks, online global leaderboard, and an option to receive free 3D glasses, you have no excuses not to get 3D Spinball… Including the price! Price: 99¢.

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