Pocket HalfPipe Review

By , on January 18, 2011


Pocket HalfPipe
  • Publisher: Peter Leary
  • Genre: Sports
  • Released: 8 Jan, 2011
  • Size: 62.3 MB
  • Price: $1.99
Download on the AppStore
4 out of 5

PROS

  • Intuitive control scheme. Unlockable items to customize your character.
  • Three modes; 'challenges' increase across all equally.

CONS

  • Sharp initial learning curve.
  • 'Big Air' mode more of a gimmick than a truly unique.

VERDICT

Pocket HalfPipe is the perfect travel companion, providing short bursts of skill-based gameplay that's satisfying whether you get that high-score run or a face-planting failure.


  • Full Review
  • App Store Info

It may not be the next 'Angry Birds', but Pocket HalfPipe by NaffRobot is the kind of casual title that balances on a fine edge of skill and simplicity, resulting in a game that's immediately addictive even without the need for overly-complicated gameplay or multiple levels.

There are three competitive modes along with a fourth free-skating mode to play in and the goal is to simply beat the score that has been set, unlocking a new item of clothing, skateboard or even a special move to boost your score. Learning the controls for Pocket HalfPipe can be a challenge, even with the game's comprehensive tutorial, as there's a specific 'rhythm' to keeping your skater moving fluidly while performing various tricks. Holding and releasing the left button controls your legs, providing speed boosts while on the pipe and performing kick-flips in the air and swiping the right button controls various holds. Combining the two can perform special maneuvers, however these need to be unlocked first.

The game's graphics are also something to behold, with sharp, angular and solid designs that look like they've jumped off a t-shirt design and on to the screen. Also, no skating game is complete without a few brutal ways to fall down and each of the game's various ways to faceplant deliver the pain in spades. No music is included with the game, however playlists set up in iTunes are available to play via the in-game boombox.

If you're after a new title to blast away 30 seconds or so at a time and you're already sick of the constant stream of basic arcade games, Pocket HalfPipe might just be the perfect companion for you.

Screenshots

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