Reviews Home » Action Games » Ultrablast

Released: 21 May, 2010

Reviewer: Andrew Nesvadba

Version: 1.4.1 Size: 41.0 MB

Share Review:

Ultrablast

$0.99

Save: 80% Was: $2.99Action Games1.4.1RetroFlux

PROS

Multiple control schemes.
Great power-ups and weapon system.
Large storyline and lots of boss fights.

CONS

Slow to progress; unlocking stages to continue from can take a while.

VERDICT

Ultrablast steps back from trying to be yet another arcade shmup title and throws in a simple, but effective combat system and storyline to keep you hooked till the end.

Video Review

Full Review

After the recent epilepsy-inducing madness of Dodonpachi Resurrection it's great to step things back a little in the shoot'em-up genre by slipping in to Ultrablast by RetroFlux. While it may not feature over the top bullet hell style gameplay, its storyline and dynamic game mechanics make this a different beast to approach.

Players can choose between three basic movement controls either using touch, virtual stick or tilting to maneuver around the screen. Firing is automatic, however players have access to two weapons out of a possible four in the game that can be switched instantly and independently powered up. Each weapon not only changes your basic play style but also does additional damage against certain enemy units, making experimentation a key strategy to your survival. Special abilities are also available and are activated by drawing gestures on the screen to give access to power-ups like reflective shields and damage multipliers.

The visuals are incredibly large and vivid, with each ship and special effect looking like it's fresh out of a Saturday morning cartoon. The variety in enemies is also amazing and so large that players can also gain access to an encyclopedia of defeated units that list them all along with weaknesses and minor back-story.

Ultrablast is an epic journey that doesn't quite pack the same energy as a straight arcade shmup, but remains fun enough to play through to completion. Worth checking out if your a fan of action and shmup titles in general.

App Store Info

>> ON SALE! Grab it now!>> and help us spread the word! Thank you for your support!>> Lite version is now available!To see video, please visit http://ultrablast.netOur big update is here!We have added the most requested features, such as new control options and the checkpoint system which allows you to continue from any level you've unlocked! ..and as an OpenFeint 2.5 Launch Partner, we're bringing you new OpenFeint functionality! Head over to http://retroflux.net for an overview of new features.Got feedback? Any suggestions? Tell us! Email, tweet, or simply post a review. We love getting feedback!Reviews:"You need to just go buy this game. It is *extremely* well produced, like crazy", "Graphics are fantastic", "Every aspect of this game is really really well-polished" - TouchGen"There are quite a few scrolling shooters to choose from on the App Store, and right off the bat Ultrablast sets itself among the best simply by getting so much right." - FingerGaming, 4/5 starsFeatured in Norway's biggest newspaper Dagbladet.Ultrablast™ is an oldschool frantic shoot'em up from RetroFlux!* Use various weapons to exploit your enemies' weaknesses!* Use gestures to unleash powerful attacks!* Stack multipliers to beat the highest score!* Strategic battles and fierce boss fights.* Exciting story taking you to exotic places.* Read about your enemies (and your friends) in the information database.* Use the online replay and profile system to see how others play and check their statistics!* Quicksave & Resume for the ones who don't have multitasking support.* Three different control options to choose from.* Amazing 16-track original soundtrack: Headphones (or a HQ stereo) are highly recommended!* Full iOS4 and multitasking support.* Full OpenFeint 2.5 support: * 16 Achievements. * Dynamic ranking. * Built-in leaderboards with profile pictures. * Challenge your friends with your highest scores! (with Push Notifications). * Social notifications (optional, you will be asked for permission).Web: http://retroflux.netTwitter: http://twitter.com/retrofluxFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/RetroFlux/342943840149

Updates

• Ultrablast is now a universal binary with native iPad support!• Added features from Special Edition: • Retina display support • Scanline filter • PlayHaven community and charts • Instant Power Orb activation• Expanded gameplay area• Added control sensitivity option• Added quick help• Upgraded OpenFeint to version 2.9• Replays are disabled in this version• This update is compatible with iOS 4.0 and up