Gameloft’s Avatar for the iPad has just been repriced to $0.99. This game was released last April to mediocre reviews. I’ve decided to take a fresh look at this game considering its improved price.
The initial reviews of this game complained about multiple crashes, since those initial reviews, the game has been updated to version 1.1.0 that appears to have remedied the crashes. I’ve been playing the game for three days and have yet to have one crash.
The user interface of this game barely uses the potential of the iPad. The controls resemble a virtual joystick and it could easily have been ported from a game console or a computer game. With that said, the game is very playable on the iPad and once you get used to the controls is very natural to play especially if you have been raised on Nintendo or XBox.
The virtual controls are placed in the lower left and right corners of the game and are very comfortable to use. One advantage over a physical gamepad is that the “buttons” are automatically redefined based on game play.
Considering that you aren’t playing on a full computer or a gaming console, the graphics, animation and music are quit good. I would say as good or better than a Sony PSP. I can understand why the portable game makers may feel threatened by the iPad and iPhone platform.
Thus far, the game play has been engaging but fairly typical of an action game. As you progress in the game you earn better weapons and can execute more powerful attacks.
I’m not sure I would have been happy if I purchased this game for $9.99, but for $0.99 it is a steal.
I hope Gameloft creates a gaming engine for the iPad that more fully utilizes iPad specific capabilities.
If you like Avatar and Action Games, I can recommend this App.
Location:Indianapolis,United States
