Has the month just come to a halt now that the iPhone 5 has been announced? It feels that way to me... or maybe I’m crazy. Either way lets scrape up what news we can for the Friday News Wrap-Up for the 14th of September, 2012.
Payback 2 - Long-awaited sequel in development
Those who happen to be long-time iOS gamers may remember the GTA-like title Payback from the dark-old ages of iPhone gaming. Rendered in software mode rather than hardware, it was a testament to the developer’s dedication, especially as it seemed to start out as an Amiga project. Payback 2 takes another swing at the free-exploring GTA formula, albeit with its own twist of allowing the player to customize the ‘events’ that occur within the world. Multiplayer is also in the works, with online and offline play with AI controlled bots to fill the gaps. Definitely a game worth keeping an eye on.
Re-Volt - iOS version out September
That’s right, if you remember Re-Volt from the Playstation and PC, then you remember good times. To me it always felt like a Micromachines-in-3D, but I guess I’ll have to see how the iOS version handles soon enough as the pint-sized racing classic will be out in the next couple weeks (or so we hear). It’s unclear what features from the original (if any) will be available in the upcoming version, but if we’re lucky multiplayer will remain.
MicroMiners - Miners4K inspired game on its way
I’m sure you’ve heard of Markus “Notch” Persson - his Minecraft game is sort of a thing and has been for some time. Well, he’s also responsible for creating a Lemmings-like title called Miners4K where you can burrow in to the ground, collect gold and bring it back out. It seems another developer has been inspired and with Notch tweeting the video, the whole world has seen what’s on offer for MicroMiners. The nitty-gritty of the gameplay hasn’t been divulged, but the game almost has a ‘Where’s My Water?’ feel to its gameplay - part creative, part puzzle. More when we have details.
Lili - Drops 21st September
The Unreal Engine powered games seem to be popping out of everywhere these days, but who can blame developer BitMonster considering there’s six ex-Epic staffers in the group. Refreshingly, the game is touted to eschew violent conflict in favor of an almost Adventure Game style combination of chatting to people, solving puzzles and playing mini-games (along with the occasional RPG-like quest to boot). Best of all the game is set to support the iPhone 5 right out the gate as well as the new iPod Touch. Check your local store on the 21st of September to grab a copy.
Heroes of Order & Chaos - Seriously sexy MOBA for iOS
I think I’m starting to fall in love with Gameloft all over again - the company that tried so hard to push me away with its freemium titles has busted out some seriously sweet titles of late, not the least of which is their announcement of Heroes of Order & Chaos. Those familiar with titles like DOTA, Heroes of Newerth, and League of Legends may find themselves curious to see how the MOBA (Multi Online Battle Arena) gameplay will stack up on portable devices; personally I can’t see a downside to being able to play something like this on the go. Sadly the game won’t be out soon as it’s scheduled for ‘the coming months’. Hit the link below for the full interview.
Pick of the Week - Super Hexagon (Terry Cavanagh) $0.99 Univ.
Super Hexagon is - as Dave described it - an elegant title. The premise is dead simple: Stay alive as long as possible. The controls are simple too: Tap on the left or right side to move left or right. However, execution will be up to how fast you can react to the onslaught of walls headed towards you and your ability to nail your maneuvers precisely. It’s a crazy challenge and one that will easily suck up your afternoon.
We’ll have more reviews, news and features for you soon enough, but for now enjoy the weekend and don’t forget we’re up on Twitter and Facebook too - I love to hear back from people, so feel free to give us a poke! Have a great weekend!
Additional Links:
Lili Teaser - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ZP8gdsI9qM
MicroMiners Gameplay - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5yPURv6E0wQ
Apex Blog - https://www.apex-designs.net/payback2_reports_ios1.html
Heroes of Order & Chaos Interview - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMP5Gwu4kJw
Super Hexagon - https://www.appspy.com/super-hexagon-review
