Fast Review: Gravity Block - Turning The World Upside Down
Gravity Block ($0.99) by Playsteria is a physics based puzzle game where you shift gravity of the entire world to move the block through the levels. You simply tap one of the four sides of the screen to shift gravity in that direction as you face 40 levels across four level packs that increase in difficulty. Each level is scored based on the number of moves with the par number increasing as you rise in difficulty.
The puzzles feature many obstacles including color switches, shifting pieces, exploding blocks, black holes, warp points, conveyor belts and more. The tutorial is intricately deluxe to help prepare you for the challenge that awaits you in a true puzzle game. You will need to plan ahead to solve most of these puzzles, and will still need to play multiple times to succeed.
Planning is one aspect, but the game also requires quickness and precision because you have no control over the block itself. When you switch gravity the other laws of physics still apply meaning that the block will pick up kinetic energy as it moves, and will interact with all the puzzle pieces accordingly. Not only do you have to make moves, but you have to keep your block under control as it can easily bounce out of control having you start over.
This is a game to truly make you think, but still has action elements which is rather unique. The puzzle gameplay itself is challenging and fun and is a much better way to spend a few spare minutes than a simple casual endless game. The artwork isn't amazing, but it gets the job done with the style of the gameplay.
The game is available as two separate apps for the iPhone and iPad though they offer no separate features so just pick the one for the device you prefer. Playing through the 40 levels will make it worth the limited $0.99 entry price for either version. OpenFeint is also included with high scores for goal moves for each level pack, plus there are numerous achievements.
Of the forty levels you can jump around to any one of them as they're all unlocked rather than having to beat the previous puzzle to unlock the next. If you really like the gameplay style there are in-app purchases for more level packs though you get only ten levels per $0.99 while the app itself gives you forty for the same price.
Verdict Gravity Block is an engaging puzzle game that makes you think while still providing fun. It's a puzzle style that borders frustration after multiple loses, but keeps you coming back to figure out the challenging puzzle. For $0.99 Gravity Block is worth picking up for either your iPhone or iPad.
