Sway Review

By , on December 21, 2009


Sway - GameClub
  • Publisher: GameClub
  • Genre: Adventure
  • Released: 25 Feb, 2009
  • Size: 57.9 MB
  • Price: FREE!
Download on the AppStore
4 out of 5

PROS

  • Innovative use of multi-touch controls.
  • Simple stylized designs.
  • OS 3.0 iTunes playlist support.

CONS

  • Physics can behave erratically.

VERDICT

It's hard not to use lines like "you'll get the 'hang' of this in no time" or "it's fun to get in to the 'swing' of things" when describing Sway. It really is a fun game and if you have to use puns to convince friends to play it, then by all means do so.


  • Full Review
  • App Store Info

It has to be said, but the main character in Sway by Illusion Labs looks like something directly out of a nightmare. However, this smiling reptilian will lazily swing her way through each level of this physics sim in an attempt to rescue her friends.

As you'd imagine, swinging is the main mechanic here and the controls are quite simple in their design. The left and right halves of the screen control the left and right arms of your chosen character (of which there are up to 10 to unlock and play). Tapping will grip onto the platform next to you, while dragging will cause your character to swing, hopefully making the next grab easier. These can be immensely complex maneuvers and the physics engine can get caught on itself at times, but even if you manage to glitch yourself it's possible to continue at any time from your last checkpoint with no penalty.

Sway uses simple blocky designs with high-resolution cartoon style texturing that's sharp and fun to enjoy. The simplicity of the designs make it easier to recognize hazards or safe spots on fast flings, but overall it's just nice to have some variety during the 25 available levels.

Even if you don't quite master swinging it's easy enough to finish the game after some time, but for those after more of a challenge you can go back and attempt to get each gold medal. Sway is good, honest simplicity made fun and uses the features of the iPhone brilliantly. Well worth a look for any casual gamer.

Screenshots

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