Ramps Review
PROS
- Simple physics-based puzzler style; complicated by unique 'traps'.
- Fun (if oddly paired) chiptune soundtrack.
- Currently 100 levels split over two unique worlds.
CONS
- No iTunes support for background music.
- Some repetitive level design; similar levels with a 'twist'.
VERDICT
Ramps hits that golden ratio of challenge and simplicity that's perfect for mobile gaming and should you wish to ramp things up you can try your hand at the challenges for each level as well.
- Full Review
- App Store Info
Sometimes it seems as though everybody and their best pal has teamed up at some point to spit out another physics-based puzzler to grab a slice of the casual-audience pie. Ramps by Backabit has more of a history than most and instead of the usual fly-by-night animal-flinging adventure, you'll need to carefully position ramps to avoid the traps and obstacles to reach the level's exit.
The ramps themselves are controlled by touch-and-drag elements on both ends and in the middle, allowing you to move and adjust the angle of each ramp within a limited arc. The balls that are dropped have a bit of bounce in them, so choosing the right angle can result in succeeding either by carefully rolling or ricocheting your way to the end. Each level also has three 'challenge' objectives, usually including a maximum time limit; avoiding a specific trap; collecting a coin before finishing the level; or simply getting to the end in one shot.
The difficulty of most of these objectives aren't terribly high, especially as most can be done in a single attempt, however the 'coin' challenges can prove to be especially punishing to solve as you'll need to use a healthy dose of lateral thinking to still solve the level once the coin is collected.
Strangely, Ramps has gone with a chiptune inspired soundtrack to go with its game and while it seems a little out of place it does bring up odd fond memories of days spent on the Amiga and even a hint of Sonic the Hedgehog (you'll know what I mean when you hear it).
Ramps is a polished little puzzler that doesn't require a lot of time invested in learning how to play and even without the challenges each level manages to mix things up enough to keep things interesting until you're done. A great grab for casual puzzle fans after a quick brainteaser.
Screenshots
$1.99
