Wispin Review

By , on November 22, 2010


Wispin
Download on the AppStore
5 out of 5

PROS

  • Fast-paced, unique arcade experience.
  • New modes to unlock based on your skill level.
  • Color-blind mode and other accessibility options.

CONS

  • No control sensitivity options.
  • Long menu delays; some selections don't correctly convey being activated.

VERDICT

Wispin is almost without comparison as you spin your way around the level, popping blobs of various colors and deploying power-ups to stunning effect; a real arcade gem.


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Wispin by Grumpyface Studios could almost be considered prototypical as far as arcade games go for the iPhone and while there are some minor details to be buffed out, it provides a handy benchmark for games yet to be released.

'But,' I hear you cry, 'WHAT is Wispin?'. Wispin is a cute bird-like creature that has to deal with multi-chromatic blobs, however the only way to defeat them is to match their color before running in to them. Players can control their character either via tilt controls or a virtual stick, while their color is managed by a wheel that can be tapped or swiped to quickly switch between the three basic colors of red, green and blue. Those who suffer from color-blindness need not feel put-out by this chromatic gameplay as a color-blind mode is also available.

Enemies quickly evolve in to larger foes, morphing and equipping new weaponry as they go and if left long enough some will temporarily 'merge' colors, rendering them almost invulnerable. Bonus 'rainbow' power-ups and other weapons including 'cheese' keep the game lighthearted, however those looking for more of a challenge can attempt to unlock the 'super intense' mode to really ramp things up.

Unless you're truly lucky, each match won't last for too long, but it's hard to feel cheated as players slowly work their way through modes and alternative levels to reach a point that's challenging enough to feel satisfying. Wispin is a gem of a title that lacks any real comparison, but once you're in it's hard not to keep coming back.

Screenshots

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