SpaceOff HD Review (iOS)
Space Off has made the leap from iPhone to iPad with a shiny full HD version, especially designed for iPads.
Space Off is the love child of former Bizarre Creations staffers, now Totem Games, and is a mix of classic 80s arcade gameplay and modern schmups. It’s a simple game that requires only one 
finger to play and is an immensely addictive game.
The game plays like breakout, with players looking to smash through the blocks at the top of the screen by firing their lasers and using the asteroids on screen to break through. The one catch being; your AI opponent is doing the same.
This twist adds a more modern element to what is quintessentially a very retro concept. Power ups will help you get a leg up on your opponent and it’s a case of first come, first served.
There are plenty of levels on offer and it provides a decent difficulty curve, with levels becoming more varied in their design and adding mechanics like pinball paddles, creating an all inclusive retro experience. It’s like several games rolled in to one, and it never feels overly convoluted.
The move to iPad will benefit those who like to share their gaming experiences. Where competitive multiplayer was available in the original version, the difficulty was the size of the screen. The iPad’s large screen affords a much better, and less clustered, way to play with your friends.
Is competitive any good though? Well yes. Much like the inspiration Space Off draws from for its mechanics, playing on the same screen has a certain inescapable retro charm to it. It’s not going to keep everyone entertained forever, but it is a blast being able to see your opponents face as your beating the pants off them.
Space Off is a clean and well presented game that captures the essence and fun of retro gaming, bundles it in to a mobile app and adds a dash of what made games like Geometry Wars such a modern classic, and even the soundtrack is reminiscent of Bizarre’s old work.
It’s one of the rare apps/games where it makes a lot of sense to make the move to a larger screen. The game as a whole is less confusing than the iPhone edition and it allows the presentation to shine just a little more.
Space Off is worth your time, make no mistake, but the multiplayer may not be up everybody’s street. It’s a fun and addictive title that should keep you coming back for more.
Space Off HD is available now for £1.99 ($2.99)
SpaceOff HD Review (iOS),
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