Prince of Persia: Warrior Within Review
PROS
- Practically an entire console title for you to enjoy.
- Action-packed combat and puzzle sequences.
- Customizable interface and controls.
CONS
- Unbearably annoying loading jitters.
- Patchy voice-work.
VERDICT
A game with this kind of scope is a rare beast for the App Store, but Prince of Persia: Warrior Within has taken a bit of a beating to fit on there and action-fans may be disappointed at the result.
- Full Review
- App Store Info
After an earlier recalled release, Gameloft have finally released 'Prince of Persia: Warrior Within' for App Store denizens to lap up, but 'buyer beware' because fitting this title on to the iPhone has required some harsh cut-backs.
A good third, if not more of the screen is immediately dedicated to the controls and interface, with more being eaten up if you attempt to control the camera at the same time. However, despite some initial concerns the customizable interface works well and clever camera positioning keeps most of the action in view. Combat is generally smooth as the simplified command set always keeps powerful moves at hand, but the platforming - something for which the series is strongly identified with - feels very limp, with slippery movement making it hard to remain confident in your agile prowess.
A lot of effort has gone in to packing this title down for the iPhone, resulting in drastically reduced 3D quality, however it's still an impressive title for the portable platform. What really kicks you in the guts is the constant jittery-freezing as the game loads each new section, with some load points occurring during the middle of extended gymnastic routines or in the middle of areas where you're fighting.
It's real shame that Warrior Within is so hard to fall in love with and for every fun action sequence you'll encounter an equally frustrating one. Die-hard action seekers might be able to forgive the flaws, but this is definitely a hard title to recommend.
Screenshots
$2.99
