For a one-man production, it’s a confident and inspiring move, especially considering how easily it could have been molded into a freemium package. For those that were disheartened by the EA buyout and the move towards freemium titles, it’s encouraging to see Fun Fetched adopt a fully premium scheme with such a low entry cost. Watching a projectile soar through the air and miraculously landing a long shot for massive bonus points reminds me of the euphoria from a lucky shot in my favourite of Popcap’s repertoire. Whilst it may most resemble Heavy Weapon’s cartoony vehicular combat it’s strangely more aptly compared to Peggle. It’s no surprise to learn that Top Tank is a project from an ex-Popcap developer it embodies the arcade perfection that their greatest titles excelled at. It does still incorporates a few nice touches, with the roar of a jets and the blades of helicopters providing audio cues to incoming enemies that you would otherwise miss but it’s a minor complaint indicative of a strong overall package. The chiptunes are simple and somewhat forgettable, but they’re up-tempo and engaging enough to serve their purpose so given that the game is intended for those small moments of idleness where you’re unlikely to bother putting your headphones in then it’s easy to forgive. Aurally, as with a large proportion of arcade titles, the game aims to suffice more than impress and it’s hard to fault it for that. The sprites are chunky and instantly distinguishable, a necessary feature given that you must recognize the strengths and weaknesses of each one in a heartbeat. Top Tank looks great, as long as the retro-styled pixelated graphics are to your taste.
PROJECT MAGENTA ARCADE STICK FREE
It’s a small touch but the effect was almost debilitating on my free time knowing that a few more gos would unlock the next locale was a sacrifice I was often more than happy to make! The terrain becomes more haphazard and the enemy forces expand to include threats such as mines and howitzers, enabling you to reach greater heights on the leaderboards but also requiring a much greater discipline to master. Additionally, progress made during each session accumulates to unlock further levels to play on with each offering more than just a palette swap. Normally something I’d glance over briefly before forgetting, instead they offer a Tilt to Live-style encouragement to attempt certain special maneuvers that lengthen the lifespan beyond that of most highscore chasers. The Game Center integration is well-handled but the achievements are where it really shines. It’s a gleeful chaos, demanding reflexes and focus but rewarding with a sense of instant gratification that is dangerously addictive.Īs much as I’ve stressed the ease at which you can intuit the gameplay, that’s not to say that the depth isn’t made up elsewhere. As several vehicles cross the uneven terrain, you’re forced to rush your shots prioritizing deflecting incoming explosives and those foes that are closest – whilst you can endure a single blow, colliding with another unit is an instant death. Determining the angle required to launch a shell across the entire screen and into a pinpointed target sounds daunting and not at all entertaining but it very quickly becomes reflex and just as soon becomes hugely satisfying. Given that every single unit is a match for your vehicle or stronger, you need to adapt to the mechanics and develop a keen judgement if you want your name on the highscore board. You’re one tank versus an entire army, quite literally, with an array of armor, jets, helicopters, artillery and even more seeking to end your run in flames. Of course, a streamlined control scheme doesn’t necessarily mean your task is a walk in the park.