Chop Chop Caveman Review

By , on November 26, 2010


Chop Chop Caveman
Download on the AppStore
4 out of 5

PROS

  • Clever 'smart' tap control system.
  • Smooth, high res cartoonish design.
  • Four fun locations and themes to enjoy.

CONS

  • Controls aren't immediately intuitive; lacks alternate options.
  • Quick to finish even with optional content.

VERDICT

Chop Chop Caveman is a great new platformer that features a 'smart' control system that may not click with some, but shows a lot of potential as an alternative to stiff virtual buttons.


  • Full Review
  • App Store Info

Developer Gamerizon isn't above trying out new ideas, or more specifically, attempting to pair classic and simple games with clever and intuitive controls designed almost exclusively with iDevices in mind. So, it's great to see Gamerizon returning to 2D platforming once again with Chop Chop Caveman and instead of flipping out in a non-stop brawl like in Chop Chop Ninja, you'll need to defeat and consume various animals while solving relatively simple physics puzzles in the process.

However, here's where things get a bit complicated as the controls for Caveman are best described as 'smart' touch controls, dictating actions based on where you're tapping relative to your caveman; how long you touch; and what you touch. This can be confusing at first, but once you've completed a couple levels it's amazing how intuitive the system can be as you fluidly switch between one or two fingers depending on what's most comfortable. Tapping on specific objects will automatically initiate one of two attacks and enemies are modified to force your Caveman to choose attacks that won't result in being damaged.

Each of the four currently available zones look stunning, fitting perfectly with the Chop Chop series' super-deformed style perfectly. Collectable gems and items add to your final score, while hidden food pick-ups give players something to work on once they've finished the content on hand.

Chop Chop Caveman is a relatively short game and despite the clever controls it's easy to find yourself restarting a level thanks to 'suicide by auto-target'. For some, the lack of alternate or familiar controls may make this a game too hard to enjoy, but should you click with the control system you'll find yourself bouncing around with ease and having a great time while doing it.

Screenshots

Screenshot 1 of 8 Screenshot 2 of 8 Screenshot 3 of 8 Screenshot 4 of 8 Screenshot 5 of 8 Screenshot 6 of 8 Screenshot 7 of 8 Screenshot 8 of 8