BreakQuest Extra Evolution |
Paul Fiander
|
|
The freemium structure has become a sometimes unwelcome feature of modern gaming. The fact that game progression can be hidden behind a pay wall that greatly exceeds the value of the game can leave a bitter taste in the mouth. Developers will highlight the fact that a reduced fee for each upgrade makes the game more accessible, but it still seems like there is quite a bit of moustache twiddling going on while this is being said. There is however some titles that have used the freemium model as a way to introduce gamers to their title allowing them a taste before they dip in. Thankfully BQEE is resident in this camp.
|
|
|
To understand why I think the freemium model works for this game, it’s best to first explain the games mechanics as they are the reason the whole model works. In simple terms this game is a block breaker but there are some clever modifications that take the game beyond the standard fare. This comes in the form of the challenging arenas you will sometimes find infuriating but mostly love for their challenging gameplay. Instead of just the usual row of blocks you will sometimes find windmills like structures with blocks at the end of the arms that move if you hit them or boss level like the one in the picture to the left. It makes for dynamic gameplay but also makes the loss of balls (your in game currency) a constant threat.
|
The setup of arenas can sometimes cost you as it may take a few attempts to figure out what is required of you to complete the level. This is just the usual trying to figure out the level but due to the limited amount of balls it can make the difficult levels feel like just a trap to make you lose lives.
Now to the actual freemium portion of the review. You begin the game with 33 balls. In theory if you are skilled enough you could complete the game with this amount. For most of us though we are going to need than this to finish this game. This can be done in a few ways.
1) Earn balls within the game, simply you can collect fragments of balls then build them to make balls. This does not really allow for a huge number but some rewards are there.
2) Near rewards, these can appease you for small gameplay chunks if peolpe local you to are playing the game.
3) Buy Balls at the PSN store. 100 balls will cost you £1.59, 200 will be £2.39, 500 is £3.19 and last but not least infinite balls will cost you £5.49.
Now to the actual freemium portion of the review. You begin the game with 33 balls. In theory if you are skilled enough you could complete the game with this amount. For most of us though we are going to need than this to finish this game. This can be done in a few ways.
1) Earn balls within the game, simply you can collect fragments of balls then build them to make balls. This does not really allow for a huge number but some rewards are there.
2) Near rewards, these can appease you for small gameplay chunks if peolpe local you to are playing the game.
3) Buy Balls at the PSN store. 100 balls will cost you £1.59, 200 will be £2.39, 500 is £3.19 and last but not least infinite balls will cost you £5.49.
|
The payment options to me make a lot of sense; you could in theory pay thousands of pounds if you continually buy the 100 ball packs for example. This would be slightly crazy considering the infinity pack will essentially unlock the game. At a cost of £5.39 I think the game gives a good level of return but this is not the option I would choose.
The game is made more fun by the desire to save your balls (insert joke here). Once you go Infinite the game loses some of its appeal I much prefer the extra added pressure of having a limit on the balls you have. My advice is to look at the 200 package as this should afford you a good chance to get deep into the game but also keep that sense of urgency I think the game needs. |
|
The standard controls for this game a pretty sharp and the level of responsiveness can be tweaked depending on your preference. You’re also able to utilise the Vitas touch interfaces to play the game, I have tried this form of control and I found it a little bit of a letdown. The movement of your ship is based on you holding the screen instead of utilising movement on the screen. I found this disappointing and ultimately stayed with the standard controls. Graphically the game is functional with vibrant colours in the back and foreground but it is by no means taxing the visual capabilities of the Vita.
|
|
All in all I would defiantly say to give the game a go, its free so well worth the initial time investment to download. After that see how it grabs you but for my money I think its well worth picking up if block destruction is your thing.
Wrap Up
|
The Good - Fun Arenas, Clever level strusture.
The Bad - Touch controls are not fluid, Infinite ball purchase stifles the game. |
3.5/5 |
Images Courtesy of Beatshapers
Game - Preview copy provided by Publisher
Game - Preview copy provided by Publisher
