FoldIt Puzzles Are A Challenge
FoldIt (Free) by bwobbit is a puzzle game that challenges users to fold a piece of paper then punch one hole in order to produce a pattern once unfolded. Remember those paper chain dolls, or paper snowflakes? Well, FoldIt expands on this idea of folding and cutting paper to create patterns.
The object of the game is to match a given pattern in 60 seconds or less. Each of the 12 levels has a different pattern for players to match. Players fold a square piece of paper and punch one hole. Fold the edges of the paper by tapping the corners they wish to fold. Once the paper is folded, they tap the check mark, and the options for holes to punch are shown on the screen. After selecting the hole to punch, tap the green button. The paper then unfolds and reveals your holes; if they match, you’ve completed the puzzle. If not, try again.
The problem with FoldIt is that there isn’t enough time to see the incorrect puzzle after it has been checked. Players could then analyze where their holes were in relation to where they need to be. As it is, FoldIt displays a “Sorry…” screen so fast it is nearly impossible to look at your mistakes.
FoldIt is surprisingly challenging. Although the patterns may seem easy they do require some visualization skills to complete. It may surprise you how long it takes to complete one or two puzzles. Although there are only 12 puzzles included, it will take a lot of time and patience to complete them, unless you are naturally gifted at 3D visualization.
One improvement which could be made is to remove the “Ready, Set, Go!” that appears before every puzzle. This appears even when repeating a failed puzzle and is quite a time waster. This combined with the lack of time to view your mistakes, eliminates any iconic memory advantages earned by attempting the puzzle. By the time you face the puzzle again you’re right back to square one.
Overall, FoldIt is a great game idea in theory but the app itself needs some work. With a few tweaks, FoldIt could be an App Store hit. Right now, I recommend this game only to those who have a lot of patience.
