Crash Bandicoot Nitro validates the iPhone as a modern gaming platform

The advanced graphical capabilities of the iPhone and iPod touch have become a major selling point to major game developers as the iPhone becomes more pervasive as both a cell phone and entertainment device.

The integration of all hand held devices is a subject that has been discussed for years, and many devices such as the PSP have made minor attempts at this. Touch screen technology has now shifted the smart phone market toward not just full internet and portable media, but also the inclusion of fully realized, 3D video games. The release list has been difficult for the iPhone with most games still relying on the “casual distraction” model instead of risking advancement by providing a game of actual substance and a requirement for progress saving. Once major franchises hit the phone we were able to see that this is going to be the next set of major developments for the phone.

Crash Bandicoot Nitro stands out as one of the best of these, attempting to meld the classic genre of cart racing with all of the benefits of touch and motion technology.

The game itself would not be excessively remarkable if released on another system. This is not to say that it is sub par in any way, but that it brings a certain amount of simplicity to the game’s design in an effort to wean the average iPhone user away from their classic expectations. The game itself allows you to select a character from Crash and his entourage, and then engage in racing competitions in a variety of different fashions. The racing interface is where the best part of the basic design is seen. Here, there is no option to accelerate or brake, and you go at a consistent speed the entire time. It is up to you to use the motion features on the iPhone to position the cart correctly by tilting the device as if it were a steering wheel. This sounds somewhat awkward at first, but it ends up being a more intuitive control scheme than any game released so far. Along with this is a jump function that is used when pressing a certain part of the screen, but this may be a complication as you are not expressly directed to its location.

Many of the features usually attributed to cart racing are present, such as combative power ups and “rainbow” track pieces that send you into ultra drive. The game is probably most notable by its depth of options. Once you have passed opening tracks with a certain amount of success you open up full Cup and Story options. The Cup sequence is similar to many in the field, where each of three cups has four tracks. Once you complete one with good enough rankings the subsequent one is released. The Story mode is quite interesting and involves a colorful animated tale that is dotted by select “missions.” Along with this is a time trial option and “Quick Race,” which solves the need for fast and casual gameplay for phone users.

The game is not without its faults, mainly that the saving possibilities are limited and the frame rate is not quite up to par. There are times when there is very noticeable slow down, but for the most part this does not interrupt gameplay.

Vivendi Mobile has outdone itself here, not just because they have created a great game, but also because they have led the pack when it comes to game development for a cell phone. It does hold a price tag of $5.99, but this is still below other developed games like Super Monkey Ball or Sim City. Crash Bandicoot Nitro is going to give you more worthwhile game time than almost any software available at the App Store, and it’s just in time.

• Crash Bandicoot Nitro – $5.99 [app store]
• Super Monkey Ball – $7.99 [app store]
• Sim City – $9.99 [app store]

 

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